2002 US Paragliding National Championships
Owens Valley - Bishop, CA                   September 20 - September 28, 2002

On September 20, over 100 paraglider pilots from around the country and around the world will descend upon Owens Valley for the 2002 US Paragliding National Championships. Why are they coming? It's simple...

They've heard the paragliding stories; they may even have a few of their own. Stories that are all about record altitude gains from Paiute or magical glass offs at Flynns. There are tall tales of flights into Nevada, or leaving that huge thermal to land next to a hot spring at the foot of Mammoth.

Encompassing America's deepest valley and two of its highest and wildest mountain ranges, Owens Valley and flying are a mystical combination in every seasoned paraglider pilot's mind. Yet, even the most accomplished paraglider pilots must temper the dream of flying Owens and setting personal records, with the realization that this valley will demand their full attention and challenge their every flying skill. Simply put, flying Owens is amazing and challenging. Cross-country paraglider flying at its best!

100 paraglider pilots will provide a beautiful visual spectacle that can be viewed up and down the White Mountain Range from 9/21 - 9/27. Best viewing will be from below launch (near the base of Jean Blanc Road) each morning between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm as weather dictates. Landing Goals will move daily, but you can follow the racing pilots along their way. And if a pilot happens to land near you, not quite making it to their goal, you can count on hearing a great story and a heartfelt "Thank You" if you offer them a ride to goal or to town.

The meets headquarters will be at White Mountain Research Station and pilots are looking forward to taking advantage of all the great attractions Owens Valley and Bishop have to offer. Local Sponsors are encouraged and if your business would like to introduce themselves to the pilots, you are welcome to include a flyer or a coupon in the pilot packages.

If you have time to share Volunteer Opportunities abound. We know how important our volunteers will be to making this event a huge success. All volunteers will receive a free 2002 Nationals T-shirt, and free admission to all the events and parties.

Volunteer Opportunities Include:

Retrieve Coordinator and Retrieve Drivers - Paraglider Pilots like to get high and go far. We will need volunteer drivers with clean licenses to drive 4WD vehicles up steep mountain roads to launch, then back down again and around the valley to pick-up the pilots as they land.
Launch Crew - Work with the launch director to coordinate pilots launching area and launch timing to ensure safety.
Goal Crew - Assist with communications and safety. Not to worry, you will have no scoring responsibilities.

So whether you are interested in being a spectator, sponsor or volunteer we look forward to seeing you at the 2002 US Paragliding National Championships.