Sorry for not posting lately, our days have been filled with flying and evenings with nice dinners and parties provided by the organization. Here is the rundown on the last few days. Thanks to everyone who sent me emails lately, it means a lot to me.
Day two was cancelled due to rain. We were at launch when the day was called off, most pilots chose to fly down in the benign conditions before the storm came instead of driving down. I was on a leisurely sled ride glide for the LZ with about thirty other pilots when everyone started mashing full bar, so just for kicks I did to. These pilots will take every opportunity possible to compare equipment and skills, good fun!
Day three / task two
Due to predictions of late afternoon overdevelopment a short 52k race to goal task was called. Conditions on course were perfect for fast racing, strong climbs and a minimum of half speed-bar on every glide was the pace. I was with the leaders up until the last two turn points, but so was everyone else, with such a short course and so many great pilots at least 50 of them were in the area I was in near the end. About halfway between the last two turn points a small group of 10 pilots were making a push for the last turn point and goal out in the valley but were clearly going to need another climb to make it, meanwhile a gaggle containing about 30 pilots was climbing high on the mountains beside me in preparation for their final glide. I was by myself and feeling like I was on a pretty good line, my Fytec 6030 was saying that I had a 12 to 1 glide to goal. I thought that if I could keep making my way to goal through lifting lines and not stop and thermal I might have a chance of staying in front of everyone and get the added height I was going to need to make my final glide. Without turning, using a combination of brakes in lift and ¼ speed-bar in sink I managed to get the 9 to 1 glide ratio I was looking for, snag the last turn point and punch full bar on my IcepeakXP for the last 6k to goal. It wasn’t until I heard Andy’s scream of excitement as we crossed the goal line than I noticed any other pilots were with me. Apparently Andy was on the top of the stack of the high gaggle I mentioned earlier, he managed to catch me on his Advance Prototype, I had him by at least a kilometre at the start of my final glide, that glider must be fast! It was so close that no one knew who won, when the scores came out both Andy and I received 1000 points, STOKED!
My wing
Day 4
According to the weather reports the day was going to overdevelop in the afternoon. The task committee was trying hard to set task that would work with conditions. They changed the task several times before finally deciding on an individual start elapsed time race. We were ¼ of the way through the course when the organizers called off the day due to overdevelopment. Like most competition organizers these guys are doing what they can to get as many valid days as possible, but they are very safety conscious as well, cancelling days when it needs to be done and keeping pilots safe.
Day 5 / task 3
Learning from the previous day the task committee decided to call a 68.2k task early to get pilots around the course before the afternoon overdevelopment. A small group of about ten pilots established their dominance early, managing to stay way higher and just behind the leaders, it was clear to me right from the start that these pilots would be the days winners. I got a good start but quickly lost the pace and was in the third gaggle. After some good moves mid course I managed to catch the tail end of the second gaggle near the second to last turn point, we were in the mountains and headed for the valley for the final turn point and goal. I tried to push on by myself again, this time it didn’t work, I got stuck in the valley and had to make a low save just before goal. From 2k out I had a 7 to 1 glide to goal; I got this no problem I thought. I did my best impression of a lawn-dart as I did a downwind landing 200 meters short of goal! I really want to learn to race. There is a lesson in here somewhere.
I love this game.
Day 6 / task 4
The big day, 113k task. Finally conditions that allow the organization to set a big task out of the valley. Stable air has produced challenging conditions for the start of the race, small bullet thermals that many pilots found hard to get up in. I had a great start and was with the leaders, but then quickly lost the pace because I was finding it challenging to stay on a lot of speedbar in such rough air. The course took us through some beautiful snow capped mountains that reminded me of the Boulder Mountains in Idaho. I was sitting in about 30th place 30k from goal when a crucial decision had to be made. The last 30k of the course took us out over large flat valley full of farm fields. The leaders had followed the terrain off course line in order to get a better position for final glide. I was with a small group of pilots that thought we might have a chance of beating the leaders if we flew straight from our position to goal. We had goal on a 12 to 1 glide and would need one more climb to make it in. Our plan fell short 6k from goal after a 25k glide without a beep from the vario. Most pilots landed short of goal this day due to the strong headwind we were all battling into. Only 6 pilot in goal.
Day 7
Strong winds prevented us from flying a task the last day. The only thing that flew this day was a gin glider bag that got picked up in a dust devil on launch and propelled clear to cloud base, proving my theory that most things fly better than a paraglider. A fun closing party in Poggio Bustone capped off the event. Final results are posted on the PWC website.
The talented photographer Martin Scheel was at the event and took some beautiful pictures.
Skie,ski,kayak,the skiing
26/9/2008 · Kategori: SKI
La Grave and the massif of La Meije offer the biggest lift-accessed
off piste skiing in the world! Not only that but it is one of the few
massifs which has an incredible 2150m 2300m of (7050ft) vertical drop.
This off-piste mountain range can provide exhilarating skiing
terrain for the advanced skier, snowboarder and tele-marker.
The Skiers Lodge is perfectly positioned within only 3 minutes
walk to the lift! This lift ascends from the village at 1400m to
stations at 1800m, 2400m, 3200m, and finally to Dome de la Lauze,
“the Glacier”, at 3550m. A typical ski descent offers limitless variety
from tame to steep terrain commencing on this glacier, proceeding
down spectacular open bowls, winding its way through small chutes,
crossing glacial moraines into seemingly endless steeps and deeps in
the serenity of the forest. Legendary descents from the Girose glacier,
with direct lines of 2300m explain why so many riders come back
year after year to enjoy free-riding with one of the most spectacular
mountain scenery in the Alps. FMGA Mountain Guide Pelle Lang,
the founder of Skiers Lodge, has come across this spectacular
mountain village during his search for big mountain skiing. His
dream was to create a lodge owned and operated by skiers for skiers.
In 1989 this dream becomes a reality. "Careful thought is given
to the itineraries that are chosen for each day. The goal is to keep
clients challenged by the terrain, but not terrified by the surroundings.
"he Skiers Lodge Guide Service, for which Pelle works daily as the
chief guide, represents the ski part of the concept. The ambition is
to create a good chemistry between guides and skiers.
Careful thought is given to the itineraries that are chosen each day.
The goal is to keep clients challenged by the terrain, but not
terrified by the surroundings. La Grave, de la Meije is not a ski resort
. Ski resorts adapt to skiers whereas here the skier must adapt to the
mountain. This is best achieved by the guidance received from the
experienced guides within the Guide Service allowing the client to
enter terrain otherwise inaccessible to him/her in a safe manner.
All guests are given safety equipment which they are trained to use.
Groups are limited to 5 persons ensuring a good level of safety and
allowing for different skiing pace. All guides are qualified by the IFMGA
and speak English, French, German and Swedish. In close proximity to
La Grave there are many resorts with their own micro climates and our
guide team may propose one of numerous possible day trips all within
an hour’s drive. Service allowing the client to enter terrain otherwise
inaccessible to him/her in a safe manner. All guests are given safety
equipment which they are trained to use. Groups are limited to 5 persons
ensuring a good level of safety and allowing for different skiing pace.
All guides are qualified by the IFMGA and speak English, French,
German and Swedish. In close proximity to La Grave there are many
resorts with their own micro climates and our guide team may
propose one of numerous possible day trips all within an hour’s drive
. Depending on the best weather and snow conditions you may be gui
ded to secret off-piste spots in Alp d’Huez, Serre Chevalier, and Claviere with
their steeps, deeps and marvelous trees. Weather and snow conditions
permitting why not try the phenomenal heliskiing in Alta Val Susa (Italy).
The Skiers Lodge Guide Service is willing to show riders what it
considered to be the best lift access free riding in the world. All it
takes is a spirit of adventure for you to share in the ultimate riding
experience. A revolution in attitude, style and equipment is
making the sports of skiing and snowboarding better than ever
.When international ski manufacturers launched their new breed
of Extreme Skis, La Grave was the chosen spot. A combination of its
long ski runs, its varied terrain and its untouched and unspoiled routes,
has given birth to a freedom a freedom to create and shape exciting new
styles, attitudes and equipment. Local riders long ago adopted a Free
Rider attitude. This means taking responsibility for ones actions on
the mountain. As the world of skiing and snowboarding pushes the
limits of equipment, the industry pops out more modern equipment
with a design and understanding of the 21st century rider. It is now
easier than ever to float in the deepest powder, to hold an edge on
the steepest terrain and to leave pencil-like tracks of a groomed snow surface
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The Wind Sports Resource
25/9/2008 · Kategori: PARAGLIDING-PARASUT
 | We promote wind powered ecological and innovative summer and winter sports! We focus on new action and extreme sports for both summer and winter use. WindSports.net is a free extreme and action sports news, article, review and picture resource. Contact info. |
 | Look at amazing extreme and action sports videos from YouTube and Google Video. Kitewing, Dirtsurfer, Mountainboard and more. |
We cover stories and info about kitewings, kite surfing, ice sailing and ice boating, skate sailing, landsailing, mountainboarding, snowboarding, skiing, sports history, and more. We also provide sports gear and equipment reviews and online sports shops and store listings.
Extreme and action sports
Discuss kitewings, action and extreme sports. Kitewing and kitesurfing discussion forum.
Extreme and actions sports online forum. Discuss kite surfing, wingsailing, ice sailing and other action sports.
Extreme and action sports
Extreme sports or action sports are sports is a general term for a collection of sports that often feature a combination of speed, height, danger and stunts. The definition of 'extreme sport' is evolving and during the 1970-80's, only sports such as hang gliding have been considered extreme. Today, the definition has evolved to include sports that offer adrenaline rushes as well. Snowboarding, snowblading, skateboarding, kite surfing etc. are classified as extreme or action sports.
Several of the sports have gained their reputation as being 'extreme' because they are a variation of a safer sport that is performed at a greater level of difficulty. An example of this type of extreme sport would be kite surfing or wingsailing with the Kitewing. While "normal" ice sailing is often considered to be relatively safe, the modification of adding high speed with jumps would not be considered safe for the average ice or kite surfer.
Winter sports
Snowboarding is one of the most popular action or extreme winter sports. Ice sailing, ice surfing, kite surfing, wing sailing, skate sailing etc. are also extreme winter sports. As we have a focus on wind powered extreme and action sports we cover stories and review action sports gear and kite equipment that can be used with a snowboard, skiis, snowblades, free skates etc. WindSports.net also has info, pictures, gear and eqipment reviews about traditional ice boating and snow sailing.
Summer sports
Extreme summer sports are skateboarding, landsailing, mountainboarding, roller-blading, etc. As we have a focus on wind powered action sports we like to cover stories and review action gear like kite buggies and other sail or kite equipment that can be used in combination with gear like a waterboard, mountainboard or roller blades.
Sports shops
| Sports equipment and extreme sports gear! Find the best action and extreme sports shops. Info on where to buy action and extreme sports equipment, gear, clothes and footwear and more sports shops. Sports books and magazines. More popular sports merchandise; sport sunglasses, sport bags, sports memorabilia, online sports shops and sporting goods. |
Sports news
Action and extreme sports news, articles and stories. What´s the difference between traditional sailboards, ice sailing with ice boats and skate sailing - maybe you will find the answer by browsing our ice sailing categories pages. Or what´s the difference between the Kitewing and kite surfing? Read more >>
Sports pictures
 | Our sports picture section has a free extreme sports picture and wallpaper online gallery. Extreme sports movies are also available. The gallery includes kite surfing, kitewing, skate sailing and ice sailing pictures. Looking for Kitewing wallpapers to your cell phone or other action sport wallpapers. Or do you want to download sports related ringtones? |
Why Windsports
Watch a Quicktime movie of NBC News coverage on our new Training Park (392k)
Windsports is the largest and oldest hang gliding flight training academy in southern California. Located in Los Angeles, Windsports provides comprehensive hang gliding flight instruction to students from around the world.
Only WindSport offers
- A full-time staff of professional instructors Cool beach flying lessons Fun Tandem Flight training at the world famous Sylmar Flight Park Lessons in Los Angeles, while other schools are hours away More than 30 years as a hang gliding academy
- The only training program in southern California that qualifies you to fly at the world famous Sylmar Flight Park
Windsports was established in 1974 as southern California School of Hang Gliding by world class competition pilots and instructors Joe Greblo and Richard Grigsby. Building on their experience and their commitment to professionalism, the school quickly became the leader in providing quality flight training to students from all over the world.
While its reputation as a premier flight academy has flourished, Windspsorts has blossomed into a full-service hang gliding company with a professionally trained staff dedicated to providing superior aviation services including certified flight training, sales of recreational through competition hang gliders and flight equipment, lesson trips and excursions to flying locations all over the world, and product services and maintenance.
Windsports is also the parent company of Stunt Wings Adventure Sports Productions, the nations leading television and motion picture industry provider of adventure sports talent and equipment. Their talents have been seen on more than 100 motion picture and television productions worldwide.
With a large staff of professional flight instructors, and a fleet of modern, light weight hang gliders, Windsports conducts ground instruction, sales and service. The 20 acre Dockweiler State Beach Hang Gliding Training Park, and the 25 acre Sylmar Flight Park are all within a short drive from metropolitan Los Angeles.
Skydiving is a "high risk" activity! However there are many precautions which skydivers take to increase safety and reduce the chance of injury. For example:
Reserve Parachutes: Skydivers carry two parachutes. The main chute is extremely reliable but no man-made device is perfect. So if the main parachute should mal********, the skydiver will release it and then open the second one.
Automatic Activation Devices: AADs monitor altitude and speed; they are capable of automatically activating the reserve parachute in the event that the skydiver does not. For years it has been mandatory for beginners to wear an AAD. In the event that a student jumper's main parachute doesn't open, and the student doesn't take appropriate action, the AAD is there as a backup.
Ram-Air Parachutes: At one time all parachutists used round, military canopies. Landings were often hard and injuries were fairly common. Today jumpers use modern rectangular parachutes that can be slowed down for gentle landings. There are a lot fewer landing injuries and the national sport associations in Canada and the USA now require the use of ramair main canopies for beginners. At the GBSPC we also use ramair reserve parachutes so that even on those rare occasions when one of our students needs the reserve, the chances of a landing injury are slim.
Weather Restrictions: Strong winds pose a problem for parachutists on landing, so for safety's sake we impose wind limits: about 25 km/hr (15 mph) for beginners. Cloud ceilings are also a factor. The higher we are, the more time we have for emergency procedures. Consequently, if we can't get up to a safe "minimum" altitude we don't jump.
Alcohol Consumption: No one is permitted to fly or jump if they've consumed any alcohol earlier that day. At GBSPC we don't allow anyone, even spectators to drink until after we're done skydiving for the day.
Drugs: Some over-the-counter and pre******ion drugs can have undesirable side-effects in high stress situations and at higher altitudes (due to lack of Oxygen). We need to know if you're taking medication and in some cases we may have to postpone your jump or even refuse to accept you altogether.
Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions warrant postponing jumps to a later date. For example, if you have a cold with sinus congestion, the sudden and dramatic pressure change of a freefall can injure your ears. If you are more than a few weeks pregnant you should not jump. In fact, it's a good idea to wait a couple of months after giving birth to give your body a chance to recover. Similarly, it is not a good idea to skydive if you have donated blood within the previous few weeks (longer if you have a small build). Of course there are other conditions which might warrant postponing or re-considering skydiving altogether. Please ask before you register. In some cases we will require a doctor's note before accepting you.
Is skydiving safe for everyone? Definitely not! It's not as safe for anyone with a physical or mental disability. It helps to be fairly fit, reasonably strong and not overweight. You need to be able to think quickly and clearly in stressful situations, both to avoid trouble and to get yourself out of trouble if it arises. To be blunt, there are a lot of people who are either too young, too old, too weak, too nervous, too uncoordinated, too heavy or not bright enough to safely jump from an airplane.
Skydiving is NOT for everyone!
GBSPC Safety Record: We've been in business for more than twenty five years. During that time we've supervised over 6000 student jumps. There have been no fatalities. Over the past 18 years only one first-jump student needed to use his reserve parachute. There have been very few landing injuries among our beginners. Although we're not sure of this, we think that's a better record than any other skydiving operation in the area. One reason for our good safety record is our approach to student training. We purposely do not attempt to cater to a high volume of beginners and we give each and every first- time jumper the undivided attention of two very experienced instructors.
Insurance, Liability and Waivers: Liability insurance is not available to parachuting schools. Participants cannot expect any insurance settlement in the event they are injured in any aircraft or parachuting accident. Consequently all jumpers are required to sign a contract commonly known as a waiver, wherein they acknowledge the risks and agree not to sue anyone if they are injured. Many parachuting schools refuse to accept beginners under 18 due to liability concerns. At Grand Bend SPC, anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent who co-signs the waiver after attending the class and being fully informed of the risks. The parent also indicates by signature that he or she is confident of the ability of the student to properly perform all required tasks.
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Paragliding Lessons
25/9/2008 · Kategori: PARAGLIDING-PARASUT
Paragliding has arrived in the US from Europe where over 100,000 people are already enjoying this incredibly simple and safe form of flying. Paragliders combine the light weight and safety of sport parachutes with the convenience, low cost, and soaring capability of hang gliders.
Paragliders are similar to hang gliders in that they are foot-launched and foot-landed. The pilot lays the canopy out on the ground, puts on the harness, launches by running down a slope, and quietly glides down to the landing area below. With the right conditions and experience, it's also possible to make flights where one gains altitude and flies for many miles and many hours.
Just about anyone can learn to paraglide. Training classes are not very strenuous, and it doesn't take any unusual strength or skill to learn to fly. Both women and men enjoy soaring together, as there is no advantage gained from being strong or forceful.
How much does it cost? - paragliding
Cost for used equipment can be as low as few hundred dollars for a worn & dated canopy. A good modern airworthy rig inspected by your local school will cost about $2000. A brand new state of the art entry level glider runs around $3500 and you will spend up to $5000 if you want a new harness, reserve, helmet, vario, radio and boots. Some students buy used equipment from us and trade up to a new higher performance canopy after a year or two in the sport.
Fly Above All will supply all the equipment during the training program. Students are not recommended to purchase equipment until they are well established in the course. Fly Above All sells, supports, and services a full line of quality new and used equipment.
Lessons in the art of Paragliding depend on how far you want to take it, but a one day introduction is the best way to start. You can experience the thrill of flying the very first day! The Novice Package takes you all the way to flying on your own without the direct supervision of the instructor. Our syllabus spans from 8 to 12 training days, with 8 hours of ground school and administration of the Beginner and Novice tests. Your first day fees will be credited towards the tuition if you decide within 30 days to go through the Novice program.
You may take a tandem flight if you prefer, but the best way to experience this magical event is on your own - you WILL fly, by yourself (weather permitting) the height equivalent of a twenty story building on your first day!!
You may also give someone the unforgettable gift of a single solo paragliding lesson. That way, they can "taste" the sport to see if they want to continue with instruction. You may order a Paragliding Day Lesson Gift Certificate HERE.
Please let me know well in advance when your schedule permits, since I have limited times available. I look forward to flying with you when you're ready!
Santa Barbara & Ventura Counties offer some of the best quality, year-round paragliding in the world. Paragliders are an advanced evolutionary aircraft that can go places and do things unlike any other vehicle. High-performance fabrics coupled with a growing comprehension of our micro-meteorology have permitted the development of our incredible sport. 
Ojai is soarable almost everyday during the dry season. Santa Barbara offers spectacular scenery and the convenience of a paved road during the cooler months. The easy coastal ridge lift works on and off at several local cliffs, and Pine Mountain has the big air and high altitude for advanced pilots.
Local flights along the coastal range from Santa Barbara to Ojai are common. When conditions are favorable, seasoned pilots are launching from Santa Barbara and extending past Interstate 5. Pilots fly from Ojai to Fillmore and beyond on a typical summer day and from Ojai to Santa Barbara when LA is raked by the Santa Anna Winds. Pine mountain is omni-directional and pilots typically reach altitudes of 9 to 15 thousand feet from the 7,000 foot South Side launch. It's not uncommon to climb above 17 thousand feet when cloudbase is up there, but beware, Pine can get too windy for paragliding.
Paragliders operate in unprecedented harmony with the natural elements. Our slow flying speeds (about 15 to 25 mph) enables us to climb in small thermals and dual with the Red Tail Hawks. Red Tails are playful and its common to share the same thermal within a wingspan. We occasionally fly with the fledgling condors or an arrogant eagle. We use numerous "top landing" perches within reach of a re-launch and can put down in some pretty tight spots when necessary.
The equipment is non rigid fabric construction. Some European alpine purist will strip down and keep their gear weight under 20 pounds. Most of our local pilots tend to ballast up with water, snacks, and a plush comfy harness resulting in total gear weights of 40 to 50 pounds including clothing, helmet, instruments, reserve parachute, radio & phone. It all stuffs into a back pack and is easily storable and transportable.
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Super Yatchs of Technology CEO’s
24/9/2008 · Kategori: LUXURY YATCHS
They are all proud owners of gargantum Yatchs. Paul's 416 feet vessel, named Octopus, comes with a remote controlled undersea rover, a 12-man submersible and a personal crew of 60, including several former Navy Seals and a recording studio. It has a pool, a basketball court, a movie theatre and a full assortment of watersports toys along with a bar and hot tub. Larry Ellision's Rising Sun has 82 rooms spread out over 5 stories, with 86,000 square feet of living space, roughly the size of an average Wal-Mart. In addition to the standard gym, basketball court and private cinema, Rising Sun boasts vast crystal chandeliers, onyx counter tops, leading chefs and an extensive wine cellar. via CNN Today I was wondering why do people go for more after the first million or two (dollars). Now I know. Frankly I would be happy with a quiet and healthy life of self-exploration in my golden years.
What does Paul Ellen (Fo-Founder of Microsoft) and Larry Ellision (Founder & CEO of Oracle) have in common with the crown prince of Dubai and Russian oilman Roman Abromavich (other than being super rich)?
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Bigfoot ski holidays
24/9/2008 · Kategori: SKI
CATERED CHALETS!
Now taking bookings for Winter 2008/09, large groups must hurry, chalets are already selling fast! Come and stay in any one of our five fabulous catered chalets and have the full luxury service!
SELF-CATERED PROPERTIES
Make your holiday one of a kind in any one of our 48 properties. From one bedroom apartments to chalets sleeping up to 10 guests the Bigfoot team will find something ideal for your holiday in Chamonix!
SUMMER IN CHAMONIX
The sun is shining and there’s an abundance of wildflowers on the hiking/biking tracks of Chamonix! Come and experience the wealth of activities available to visitors of all ages and stay in one of our charming Bed & Breakfasts on offer throughout the season.
Chamonix Chalet Ski Holidays
If you are keen to go skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or biking in Chamonix, then look no further than Bigfoot Travel, The Chamonix Specialist. Since David Kartal returned to head the company in Chamonix last May, his 18 years of experience has strengthened our place at the pinnacle of Chamonix’s holiday suppliers. Our clients benefit from the close and long held relationships we have forged with the very best partners in the valley, and our continued dedication to personal and caring service.
Chamonix Accommodation
We believe that we offer the most extensive range of self-owned and self-managed accommodation in the Alps, with our winter portfolio of 6 Catered Chalets, 8 Bed and Breakfast Chalets, 42 Self Catered Chalets and Apartments, and our own 3 Star Hotel with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, saunas, bar, and restaurant and our summer portfolio of 2 Bed and Breakfast Chalets, 8 Self Catered Hotel Chalets, 42 Self Catered Chalets and Apartments, and our own 3 Star Hotel with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, saunas, bar, and restaurant.
Chamonix Short Breaks and Weekly Stays
Our return clients will vouch that, unlike most tour operators, we pride ourselves on flexibility as well as quality. Our products can be tailor made to suit your required duration, group size and budget. If you would like to book a weekend stay over the winter we can offer our self catered accommodation, our Weekend Chalet, or our Hotel from today, even during peak periods. Our Weekly Chalets are also flexible, as we will consider short stays for sole occupancy groups or on a last minute basis. Selected holidays can be snapped up at fantastic early booking prices for you efficient early birds, and we offer special offers throughout the season. Throughout the summer our chalets and hotel can be booked from 1 night and upwards and our self catered properties can be booked from 3 nights and upwards.
Chalets in Chamonix
Our Catered Chalet holidays include airport transfers from Geneva, in resort minibus to and from the slopes, breakfast, afternoon tea, and 3 course dinners with wine and coffee every night except Wednesdays. We have Comfort and Luxury properties to offer small and large groups.
Our summer chalets are run on a Bed and Breakfast basis, with dinners possible if booked in advance.
Chamonix Apartments and Chalets
Our self catered properties include the repping services upon your arrival in resort, electricity, linen, towels, and end of stay cleaning. We have a range of over 40 Comfort, Luxury, and Prestige apartments in Chamonix and Les Praz, which are sold on a year round basis.
Chamonix Hotels
Our Hotel and Chalets du Bois are located in Les Houches, and can be booked from 4 nights in the winter, and one night in the summer on a Bed and Breakfast or Half Board basis.
Bigfoot Extras
Lessons and Guiding in Chamonix
Bigfoot have enjoyed close relationships with the internationally-acclaimed activity supplier Evolution 2 and the long-established ESF ski school for years, using their comprehensive portfolios for both adults and children to help you make the most of your holiday.
Equipment Hire in Chamonix
We also work with ski hire shops all over the valley, Intersport, Ravanel Chamonix and Coquoz Sports in town, Ravanel Flegere in Les Praz, and Cyprien Sports in Les Houches, to offer our clients the best choice in beginner to professional level skis and boards.
Ski Passes for the Chamonix Valley
To avoid queuing at lift stations it is a great idea to pre-book your passes with our friendly sales team, who will be happy to help decide which option is best for your party. This year you can choose from the Chamski which accesses the Chamonix areas of Brévent-Flégère, Lognan (Argentiere), Tour-Vallorcine, Les Planards, Le Savoy, Les Chosalets, La Vormaine and gives free use of the valleys shuttle bus, the new Mont Blanc ‘Unlimited’ which accesses all the Chamonix areas plus Les Houches, the top of Grands Montets, Aiguille du Midi, Montenvers, and allows 1 day in Courmayeur, or the Mont Blanc pass.
Chaletfood.com
This year our self catering team will be offering a fantastic new service through www.chaletfood.com. Clients will be able to place a grocery order to be delivered to their apartment within an hour of their arrival in resort. This saves the hassle of queuing in busy supermarkets and is especially useful for clients due to arrive late in the evening when shops are closed.
Airport Transfers, Geneva to Chamonix
ATS, our transport partner, offer both shared and private transfers. As part of the service in a Bigfoot Catered Chalet holiday our office staff will book you onto one of ATS’s shared airport transfers. If you have booked a holiday which does not include airport transfers you can still book them through us at a cost of £60 per person travelling on a shared minibus, or more for a private. Alternatively, if you would like to book directly with ATS themselves please feel free to use the Airport Transfer Service link on
our homepage
.
Chamonix Valley
Chamonix Mont Blanc has long-held a legendary reputation for first-class skiing and mountaineering, endorsed by its place as one of the ‘Best of the Alps’ named resorts. It is uniquely located close to Italy and Switzerland, giving easy access to fantastic terrain across 3 countries. It is also conveniently placed only an hour from Geneva Airport, making it an ideal destination for a flying visit!
The valley is dominated by the beauty of the Mont Blanc Massif whose surrounding peaks offer a varied selection of skiing, with the highest lift reaching 3842 metres. Despite popular myth that Chamonix is the terrain of experts only, the valley offers fun and exhilaration for all levels of skier and snowboarder. There are comprehensive beginner’s areas at the bottom of all the main lifts, and lots of relaxed blues and reds to cruise down.
Day time & Night time in Chamonix
Chamonix offers designer boutiques, technical equipment stores and a host of well-known brand names to satisfy every shopper’s desires; beauty salons and spas for those keen to indulge themselves; and a large sports centre complex offering an ice rink, climbing wall, swimming pool and gym for fitness enthusiasts. Saturday mornings are a perfect time to wander through the market and sample the fresh local produce, then visit one of the museums or exhibitions to soak in the fascinating history of this region.
If you are in pursuit of some fun non-skiing activities we can arrange husky sledding, skidooing, ski de fond, snow shoe walking, helicopter flights, and paragliding. As the birthplace of alpinism, Chamonix also offers exhilarating sports like ice-climbing and ski-mountaineering to challenge and reward those looking for new experiences.
In the summer months alternative activities include: mountain biking, climbing, horse riding, orienteering, quad biking, paragliding, canyoning, white water rafting, golf, adventure assault courses, helicopter flights.
For a gentle yet stunning day out, the Montenvers tramway ascends through pine trees to the Mer de Glace where you can walk through ice caves before relaxing in the café overlooking the glacier. For a more exhilarating ride take the world famous cable car to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi at 3842 metres, where you can enjoy outstanding views into Italy and Switzerland.
Chamonix night life is a tempting confection, with chic bars, live music venues, traditional French cafes, nightclubs where you can dance until dawn, a Casino, a bowling alley with pool hall, and a cinema. There are also a multitude of restaurants on offer, whatever your taste and budget.
Our friendly sales team and in resort staff will be happy to make suggestions to ensure that you enjoy an extra special evening... just ask!
Whether you are looking for a skiing or snowboarding holiday in a Chamonix Catered Chalet, or an Alpine Summer Activity Holiday offering mountain biking, rafting, canyoning, hiking, climbing and more, we will be happy to cater to your needs.
So for all your Chamonix accommodation queries, just call Bigfoot ...The Chamonix Specialist!
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XC - 2007 the year that the world looked at Brazil
7/6/2008 · Kategori: genel
In 2007 SOL and its pilots wrote a chapter in the paraglider world history. After 5 years it breaks the most important world record and in a triple way by the pilots Marcelo Prieto, Rafael Saladini and Frank Brown. 
Beyond that the dominance of the most important world free distance competitions – for the first time a pilot overtakes 3,000 points. Rafael Saladini flew more than 3,000 km in 2007 – an unthinkable number and it will be written in history next to the record.
During 2007 Rafael flew huge distances all over the places where he had been - Europe, Mexico and many places in Brazil – in every one he left an special mark and sometimes a regional record.
http://www.ciclone.com.br/modules.php?name=leonardo&op=competition&clubID=0
For 2008 the team gets another important pilot - Olympio Faissol which is flying together with Marcelo Prieto and Rafael with our paragliders searching for new challenges.
SOL thanks pilots for their results and dedication.
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SOL leads the ranking APWC 2007
7/6/2008 · Kategori: genel
| Monday, 10 September 2007 | |
AcroGarda, the last event of the World Acrobatics Circuit 2007 (APWC) happened during the 6 and 9 th September in Malcesine, Italy. The pilots SOL Hernan Pitocco and Horacio Llorens conquered the category sincro, and Renato "Curreca" and Renato Lopes were in the 3rd position. AcroGarda - Results Syncro: In the solo category, 4 pilots SOL were between the 8 first places |
AcroGarda - Solo Results:
1st Felix Rodriguez
2nd Antoine Montant
3rd Pal Takats
4th Gabor Kezi
5th Alexandre Aimard (Sonic)
6th Renato Lopes (Sonic)
7th Horacio Llorenz (Sonic)
8th Hernan Pitocco (Sonic)
With these results the SOL´s leadership is for sure in the APWC 2007 ranking::
World APWC Sincro ranking 2007:
1st SATisfaction - Hernan Pitocco, Horacio Lorens (Sonic)
2nd JUSTAcro Team - Gabor Kezi, Pal Takats
3rd SOL Tribal - Renato Lopes, Renato Curreca (Sonic)
Ranking Mundial APWC Solo 2007::
1st Pal Takats
2nd Hernan Pitocco (Sonic)
3rd Felix Rodriguez
4th Horacio Llorens (Sonic)
5th Alexandre Aimard (Sonic)
7th Renato Lopes (Sonic)
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BrasilAcro: Renato Lopes is the Brazilian championship
7/6/2008 · Kategori: genel
| Monday, 19 November 2007 | |
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Renato Lopes conquered the Brazilian Acrobatic Championship during the Brasilacro 2007, which took place in Joanópilis (state of Sao Paulo) on the 15 and 18 th November. Renato "Curreca" was in second place and André Vasconcelos in third, all of them flying with SOL. Although the weather was windy and rainy, every pilot did three flights to show their acrobatic abilities and it was a beautiful performance to the audience that was there. |
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ıtaly pwc
16/5/2008 · Kategori: genel
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History
16/5/2008 · Kategori: genel
In 1954, Walter Neumark predicted (in an article in Flight magazine) a time when a glider pilot would be “able to launch himself by running over the edge of a cliff or down a slope … whether on a rock-climbing holiday in Skye or ski-ing in the Alps”.[1]
In 1961, the French engineer Pierre Lemoigne produced improved parachute designs which led to the Para-Commander (‘PC’), which had cut-outs at the rear and sides which enabled it to be towed into the air and steered – leading to parasailing/parascending.
Sometimes credited with the greatest development in parachutes since Leonardo da Vinci, the American Domina Jalbert invented in 1964 the Parafoil which had sectioned cells in an aerofoil shape; an open leading edge and a closed trailing edge, inflated by passage through the air – the ram-air design.[2]
Meanwhile, David Barish was developing the Sail Wing for recovery of NASA space capsules – “slope soaring was a way of testing out … the Sail Wing”.[3] After tests on Hunter Mountain, New York in September 1965, he went on to promote ‘slope soaring’ as a summer activity for ski resorts (apparently without great success).[4] NASA originated the term ‘paraglider’ in the early 1960’s, and ‘paragliding’ was first used in the early 1970’s to describe foot-launching of gliding parachutes.
In 1954, Walter Neumark predicted (in an article in Flight magazine) a time when a glider pilot would be “able to launch himself by running over the edge of a cliff or down a slope … whether on a rock-climbing holiday in Skye or ski-ing in the Alps”.[1]
In 1961, the French engineer Pierre Lemoigne produced improved parachute designs which led to the Para-Commander (‘PC’), which had cut-outs at the rear and sides which enabled it to be towed into the air and steered – leading to parasailing/parascending.
Sometimes credited with the greatest development in parachutes since Leonardo da Vinci, the American Domina Jalbert invented in 1964 the Parafoil which had sectioned cells in an aerofoil shape; an open leading edge and a closed trailing edge, inflated by passage through the air – the ram-air design.[2]
Meanwhile, David Barish was developing the Sail Wing for recovery of NASA space capsules – “slope soaring was a way of testing out … the Sail Wing”.[3] After tests on Hunter Mountain, New York in September 1965, he went on to promote ‘slope soaring’ as a summer activity for ski resorts (apparently without great success).[4] NASA originated the term ‘paraglider’ in the early 1960’s, and ‘paragliding’ was first used in the early 1970’s to describe foot-launching of gliding parachutes.
Author Walter Neumark wrote Operating Procedures for Ascending Parachutes, and he and a group of enthusiasts with a passion for tow-launching ‘PCs’ and ram-air parachutes eventually broke away from the British Parachute Association to form the British Association of Parascending Clubs (BAPC) in 1973.
These threads were pulled together in June 1978 by three friends Jean-Claude Bétemps, André Bohn and Gérard Bosson from Mieussy Haute-Savoie, France. After inspiration from an article on ‘slope soaring’ in the Parachute Manual magazine by parachutist & publisher Dan Poynter,[5] they calculated that on a suitable slope, a ‘square’ ram-air parachute could be inflated by running down the slope; Bétemps launched from Pointe du Pertuiset, Mieussy, and flew 100 m. Bohn followed him and glided down to the football pitch in the valley 1000 metres below.[6] ‘Parapente’ (pente being French for slope) was born.
Through the 1980’s and since, it has been a story of constantly improving equipment and ever greater numbers of paragliding pilots. The first World Championship was held in Kössen, Austria in 1989.
Author Walter Neumark wrote Operating Procedures for Ascending Parachutes, and he and a group of enthusiasts with a passion for tow-launching ‘PCs’ and ram-air parachutes eventually broke away from the British Parachute Association to form the British Association of Parascending Clubs (BAPC) in 1973.
These threads were pulled together in June 1978 by three friends Jean-Claude Bétemps, André Bohn and Gérard Bosson from Mieussy Haute-Savoie, France. After inspiration from an article on ‘slope soaring’ in the Parachute Manual magazine by parachutist & publisher Dan Poynter,[5] they calculated that on a suitable slope, a ‘square’ ram-air parachute could be inflated by running down the slope; Bétemps launched from Pointe du Pertuiset, Mieussy, and flew 100 m. Bohn followed him and glided down to the football pitch in the valley 1000 metres below.[6] ‘Parapente’ (pente being French for slope) was born.
Through the 1980’s and since, it has been a story of constantly improving equipment and ever greater numbers of paragliding pilots. The first World Championship was held in Kössen, Austria in 1989.
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