The 2014 Big Spring Hang Gliding Nationals

The 2014 Big Spring Hang Gliding Nationals is often referred to as the best cross country hang gliding competition flying site in the world. Proved by several worlds' records that were made there, the Big Spring McMahon-Wrinkle Airport will once again welcome the best hang glider pilots to complete in Texas' flatlands from August 3 through 9. This is the thirteenth year in a row for the event, which features the some of the strongest, smoothest, most consistent flying conditions of any competition in the world.

23. 7. 2014

This was the site of the highly successful 2007 FAI World Championship, won by Attila Bertok. Recent years have seen many long cross-country tasks, including the world record for the longest task ever flown in a hang gliding competition, 346 kilometers to Panhandle, Texas. The terrain is mostly over open plains and agricultural fields, perfect for racing.

Last year's top Open Class winners were Attilla Bertok (Hungary), Zac Majors and James Stinnett (both USA). This year's competitors include pilots from Mexico, Great Britain, Norway and Guatemala.

The community of Big Spring goes out of its way to welcome attendees every year with an air conditioned pilot lounge, paved runways, shaded bleachers for spectators, volunteers to help with launch, ice cream, water, and a traditional Texas BBQ welcome dinner.

The National is a USHPA and CIVL Category 2 sanctioned event, and is part of a series that will determine the 2014 US National Champion. It will include Open, Sport and Rigid classes.