Oz Report
topic: NTSS (31 articles)
NTSS - offline »
NTSS - offline
Not up at the USHPA web site
NTSS|USHPA
https://www.ushpa.org/page/ntss-class-1
The NTSS system is currently offline.
Discuss "NTSS - offline" at the Oz Report forum link»
Do you agree with these proposed changes to the NTSS?
Do you agree with these proposed changes to the NTSS?
What about the Nationals?
(USHPA headquarters, Colorado Springs, CO, USA)
NTSS|USHPA
The CWG/LMR proposal for the Nationals, adds a bit to the burdens that they place on the meet organizer for the "national-level" competitions:
In addition to the burdens detailed in the last article, the meet organizer will:
1) Meet director will support one apprentice to assist and learn through the USHPA Meet Director Apprenticeship Program. Apprenticeship must be offered at no cost to the apprentice.
2) Currently accepted FAI scoring system must be used.
3) Events with entry fees over $250 must submit a complete budget unless the event is being held by a USHPA Chapter for the benefit of said Chapter.
While it is clearer now who has to pick up the burden of the apprentice (the meet organizer, and through the meet fees, the pilots) the USHPA isn't providing any funds for expenses for the apprentice (what happened to that subsidy?). Also, it drops down to one apprentice. Is this in consideration that the meet director might be a little tight for time at a Nationals, or just what?
There is no currently accepted FAI scoring formula. There are a variety of scoring formulas used. In fact, we use OzGAP 2005 (which is one of the scoring formula used by the FAI) but we don't use their "system." We use software that I wrote (and tested against the FAI scoring software). Why shouldn't we be able to use it?
And just why would chapters not have to have budgets when "regular old" meet organizers are required to have them? Do LMR just assume that they can't come up with them? What is the back story here? Is the King Mountain meet nominally put on by the club? Are LMR trying to get more club involvement? What exactly?
Discuss "Do you agree with these proposed changes to the NTSS?" at the Oz Report forum link»
King Mountain NTSS ranking points yet to be determined
King Mountain NTSS ranking points yet to be determined
The USHPA awaits a BOD decision
(USHPA headquarters, Colorado Springs, CO, USA)
King Mountain Nationals 2009|NTSS|USHPA
http://www.ushpa.aero/compresults.asp
http://www.ushpa.aero/competition/ntss1/index.php
2010 Interim rankings are provisional until the BOD has determined the appropriate way to integrate the King Mountain National scores (where GAP was not used).
3 topics in this article: King Mountain Nationals 2009, NTSS, USHPA
NTSS »
March 22, 2008, 7:21:11 +1100
NTSS
New ranking soon
USHPA
Chris Smith «chris» writes:
I know everyone is anxious to see an NTSS update - my apologies for the delay. Getting settled in LA and work have gotten the best of my time lately (and I have been a little lazy) but I intend to have the update complete by next Friday – good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise.
I need to make a few corrections to the 2008 interim before creating a new sheet for the 2009 ranking. I will have to have the creator of the Excel sheet help me migrate from 2008 to 2009.
Comps that still need to be added: Forbes, Bogong, and NSW State Titles.
Discuss NTSS at the Oz Report forum link»
1 topic in this article: USHPA
NTSS »
NTSS
Up on the USHGA web site.
Ron Gleason|USHGA
Ron Gleason «xcflying» writes:
The NTSS rankings are available on the USHGA web site at
http://ushga.org/compresults.asp
or folks can navigate via the COMPETITION button off the main menu.
Any errors or feedback can be sent to Ron Gleason at
«xcflying».
Discuss NTSS at the Oz Report forum
2 topics in this article: Ron Gleason, USHGA
NTSS - US pilot ranking »
NTSS
Ron Gleason uploads the latest version after the Flytec competition
NTSS|Ron Gleason|USHPA
Ron Gleason «xcflying» writes:
The USHPA NTSS rankings are available for download. Please review
the rankings and let me know of any errors.
Class 1 – http://ozreport.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2246
Class 5 - http://ozreport.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=14866#14866
For folks who are not registered at the Oz Report forum they can try these links
http://ushpantssclass1.blogspot.com/ for class 1
http://ushpantssclass5.blogspot.com/ for class 5
Works fine with FireFox, but IE has formatting errors, but it is still readable
Discuss NTSS at the Oz Report forum
3 topics in this article: NTSS, Ron Gleason, USHPA
Registration
Fifteen days before general registration opens
Big Spring Open 2006|CIVL|NTSS|Pre-Worlds 2006|World Pilot Ranking Scheme
Big Spring Open and pre-Worlds
http://www.flytec.com/Events/2006/Big_Spring/Registration.htm
Registration is now open.
Flex wing, Sport Class and Single Surface advanced registration opened 12:00pm, March 15, 2006 for Top 30 US NTSS rated pilots and top 50 CIVL rated pilots. Flex wing general registration will open April 1, 2006. Rigid wing, single surface and sport class flex wing pilots may register March 15.
Sport Class and Single Surface pilots willing to help earlier pilots launch get reduced entry fees. If you are in the top 30 NTSS or 50 WPRS, you had better sign up now before general registration is open.
East Coast Championship
http://www.aerosports.net/eccreg.html
5 topics in this article: Big Spring Open 2006, CIVL, NTSS, Pre-Worlds 2006, World Pilot Ranking Scheme
2007 NTSS ranking »
The US NTSS ranking is on-line
blog|NTSS|NTSS ranking|NTSS ranking 2007
You can find the NTSS pilot ranking for 2006 and the start of the ranking for 2007 here. If you find any problems with this ranking please contact «me».
Discuss "2007 NTSS ranking" at the Oz Report forum link»
4 topics in this article: blog, NTSS, NTSS ranking, NTSS ranking 2007
NTSS »
Mon, Aug 15 2005, 11:00:00 am EDT
The US pilot ranking after the Big Spring Open
Bo Hagewood|Bruce Barmakian|Bubba Goodman|Campbell Bowen|Chris Zimmerman|Davis Straub|Dennis Pagen|Dustin Martin|George Stebbins|Glen Volk|Greg Kendall|James Lamb|Judy Hildebrand|Kari Castle|Kevin Carter|Lauren Tjaden|Lisa Verzella|Mark Stump|Mike Barber|Oliver Gregory|Paris Williams|Phill Bloom|Quest Air|Ron Gleason|Russell "Russ" Brown
The women:
13 | VASSORT Claire | 1013 |
19 | Castle Kari | 823 |
25 | SALAMONE Linda | 694 |
50 | PERMENTER Raean | 269 |
61 | VERZELLA Lisa | 164 |
66 | TJADEN Lauren | 141 |
78 | HILDEBRAND Judy | 85 |
The first six women pilots (there are seven in the table above) form the US Women's National Team and get to fly in the Worlds in May at Quest Air. The draft rules allow a women's team of six with six additional individual pilots.
The rigid wing pilots:
1 | Straub Davis | 1552 |
2 | ENDTER Vincent | 1307 |
3 | GLEASON Ron | 1246 |
4 | LAMB James | 1149 |
5 | Brown Russell | 1138 |
6 | Yocom Jim | 1091 |
7 | Bowen Campbell | 1087 |
8 | BARMAKIAN Bruce | 855 |
9 | GREGORY Oliver | 713 |
10 | TJADEN Paul | 624 |
11 | STUMP Mark | 597 |
12 | BUNNER Larry | 536 |
The first six pilots form the US rigid wing team for the Worlds at Quest Air in May. The second six can fly in the Worlds as individuals (according to the draft rules).
The flex wing pilots:
1 | Barber Mike | 1925 |
2 | Martin Dustin | 1922 |
3 | CARTER Kevin | 1863 |
4 | Volk Glen | 1831 |
5 | BLOOM Phill | 1766 |
6 | Warren Curt | 1741 |
7 | Williams Paris | 1721 |
8 | ZIMMERMAN Chris | 1524 |
9 | LANNING Tom | 1394 |
10 | Goodman Bubba | 1321 |
11 | PRESLEY Terry | 1098 |
12 | BURICK Carl | 1089 |
13 | VASSORT Claire | 1013 |
14 | KENDALL Greg | 958 |
15 | Stebbins George | 949 |
16 | Williams Michael | 924 |
17 | Pagen Dennis | 861 |
18 | ZABO Shawn | 855 |
19 | Castle Kari | 823 |
20 | Hagewood Bo | 822 |
The flex wing pilots will not have a Worlds until 2007 (in Big Spring) and so their ranking this year doesn't matter so much. They get to use their best two flights from this year when determining their ranking at the end of 2006.
http://davisstraub.com/Glide/2006class1ntss.htm
http://davisstraub.com/Glide/2006class5ntss.htm
25 topics in this article: Bo Hagewood, Bruce Barmakian, Bubba Goodman, Campbell Bowen, Chris Zimmerman, Davis Straub, Dennis Pagen, Dustin Martin, George Stebbins, Glen Volk, Greg Kendall, James Lamb, Judy Hildebrand, Kari Castle, Kevin Carter, Lauren Tjaden, Lisa Verzella, Mark Stump, Mike Barber, Oliver Gregory, Paris Williams, Phill Bloom, Quest Air, Ron Gleason, Russell "Russ" Brown
NTSS »
Tue, Aug 2 2005, 4:00:03 pm EDT
The US pilot ranking before the Big Spring Open
Bo Hagewood|Bruce Barmakian|Bubba Goodman|Campbell Bowen|Chris Zimmerman|Davis Straub|Dennis Pagen|Dustin Martin|George Stebbins|Glen Volk|James Lamb|Kari Castle|Kevin Carter|Mark Stump|Mike Barber|Oliver Gregory|Paris Williams|Phill Bloom|Ron Gleason|Russell "Russ" Brown
Rigid:
1 | Straub Davis | 1370 |
2 | Yocom Jim | 1091 |
3 | ENDTER Vincent | 1071 |
4 | Brown Russell | 1058 |
5 | GLEASON Ron | 1051 |
6 | Bowen Campbell | 975 |
7 | LAMB James | 887 |
8 | BARMAKIAN Bruce | 855 |
9 | GREGORY Oliver | 713 |
10 | STUMP Mark | 597 |
Flex:
1 | CARTER Kevin | 1863 |
2 | Martin Dustin | 1838 |
3 | Warren Curt | 1741 |
4 | Williams Paris | 1394 |
5 | BLOOM Phill | 1390 |
6 | Barber Mike | 1384 |
7 | Volk Glen | 1308 |
8 | LANNING Tom | 1273 |
9 | Goodman Bubba | 1150 |
10 | ZIMMERMAN Chris | 1125 |
11 | PRESLEY Terry | 1098 |
12 | Pagen Dennis | 861 |
13 | Williams Michael | 842 |
14 | Castle Kari | 823 |
15 | Straub Davis | 811 |
16 | VASSORT Claire | 808 |
17 | HAYWOOD John | 787 |
18 | Stebbins George | 786 |
19 | SLOCUM Jack | 770 |
20 | Hagewood Bo | 690 |
20 topics in this article: Bo Hagewood, Bruce Barmakian, Bubba Goodman, Campbell Bowen, Chris Zimmerman, Davis Straub, Dennis Pagen, Dustin Martin, George Stebbins, Glen Volk, James Lamb, Kari Castle, Kevin Carter, Mark Stump, Mike Barber, Oliver Gregory, Paris Williams, Phill Bloom, Ron Gleason, Russell "Russ" Brown
NTSS »
Mon, Aug 9 2004, 5:00:00 pm EDT
After the Nationals and before the Worlds in Australia.
Bo Hagewood|Bruce Barmakian|Bubba Goodman|Campbell Bowen|Chris Zimmerman|Davis Straub|Dean Funk|Dennis Pagen|Dustin Martin|George Stebbins|Glen Volk|Jack Simmons|James Lamb|Jim Lee|Kari Castle|Kevin Carter|Krzysztof "Krys/Kris" Grzyb|Mark Bolt|Mike Barber|Oliver Gregory|Paris Williams|Ron Gleason|Russell "Russ" Brown|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
The rigid wing ranking:
Rank | Pilot | Total |
---|---|---|
1 | Yocom Jim | 1549 |
2 | Straub Davis | 1464 |
3 | GLEASON Ron | 1417 |
4 | BARMAKIAN Bruce | 1369 |
5 | ENDTER Vincent | 1319 |
6 | POUSTICHIAN Mark | 1237 |
7 | Bowen Campbell | 1186 |
8 | LAMB James | 1070 |
9 | Brown Russell | 1029 |
10 | GREGORY Oliver | 981 |
The flex wing ranking:
Rank | Pilot | Total |
---|---|---|
1 | Warren Curt | 2116 |
2 | Hagewood Bo | 1650 |
3 | Williams Paris | 1623 |
4 | PRESLEY Terry | 1607 |
5 | Barber Mike | 1524 |
6 | ZIMMERMAN Chris | 1513 |
7 | CARTER Kevin | 1506 |
8 | Rossignol Jerz | 1449 |
9 | Castle Kari | 1386 |
10 | Goodman Bubba | 1374 |
11 | Martin Dustin | 1371 |
12 | Volk Glen | 1332 |
13 | VASSORT Claire | 1170 |
14 | Bunner Larry | 1131 |
15 | Stebbins George | 1044 |
16 | BLOOM Phil | 1036 |
17 | Pagen Dennis | 1034 |
18 | Lee Jim | 1014 |
19 | Bessa Carlos | 994 |
20 | Simmons Jack | 951 |
21 | LANNING Tom | 945 |
22 | SAUER Richard | 886 |
23 | ANGEL Scott | 862 |
24 | Funk Dean | 831 |
25 | SLOCUM Jack | 799 |
26 | GRZYB Krzysztof | 783 |
27 | BURICK Carl | 768 |
28 | Straub Davis | 733 |
29 | Bolt Mark | 719 |
30 | Rewolinski Steve | 629 |
See the full ranking at https://ozreport.com.
In my capacity as USHGA Competition Chairman, I will be sending an e-mail to the top thirty flex wing pilots regarding the 2005 Worlds in Hay, Australia. If you don't receive this e-mail, or are pretty sure that I (or the USHGA) don't have your e-mail address, please contact me ((davis@davisstraub.com).
25 topics in this article: Bo Hagewood, Bruce Barmakian, Bubba Goodman, Campbell Bowen, Chris Zimmerman, Davis Straub, Dean Funk, Dennis Pagen, Dustin Martin, George Stebbins, Glen Volk, Jack Simmons, James Lamb, Jim Lee, Kari Castle, Kevin Carter, Krzysztof "Krys/Kris" Grzyb, Mark Bolt, Mike Barber, Oliver Gregory, Paris Williams, Ron Gleason, Russell "Russ" Brown, Steve Rewolinski, USHGA
The race for the Worlds in Oz
Bo Hagewood|Bubba Goodman|calendar|Carlos Bessa|Chelan XC Classic 2004|Chris Zimmerman|Claire Vassort|competition|Curt Warren|Davis Straub|Dean Funk|Dennis Pagen|Flytec Championships 2004|George Stebbins|Glen Volk|Jerz Rossignol|Jim Lee|Kari Castle|Kevin Carter|Krzysztof "Krys/Kris" Grzyb|Larry Bunner|Mark Bolt|Mike Barber|NTSS|Paris Williams|Phil Bloom|Richard Sauer|Scott Angel|South Florida Championships 2004|Steve Rewolinski|Tennessee Tree Toppers Team Challenge 2004|Terry Presley|USHGA|US Nationals 2004|Worlds 2004
The points from the Australian meets add up as we look at the NTSS standings for US flex wing pilots and how they effect who's going to the Worlds in Hay in 2005.
https://OzReport.com/compPilotRankings.php
The race to be on the flex wing national teams is on. Pilots were in Australia flying to gain points on their country's team so that they can go to the Worlds in Australia next January. In the US, the pilots are chosen on the basis of their four best competitions results. They can use their two best flights from 2003, and their best flights from 2004. One new rule is that only two flights from competitions outside the United States count. Here's how things stand today:
1 | Hagewood Bo | 1498 |
2 | Williams Paris | 1150 |
3 | Warren Curt | 1059 |
4 | Lee Jim | 1014 |
5 | Bessa Carlos | 994 |
6 | Rossignol Jerz | 975 |
7 | Castle Kari | 965 |
8 | Zimmerman Chris | 898 |
9 | Sauer Richard | 886 |
10 | Presley Terry | 827 |
11 | Carter Kevin | 811 |
12 | Goodman Bubba | 806 |
13 | Straub Davis | 733 |
14 | Pagen Dennis | 719 |
14 | Bolt Mark | 719 |
16 | Bloom Phil | 662 |
17 | Vassort Claire | 657 |
18 | Grzyb Krzysztof | 635 |
19 | Angel Scott | 632 |
20 | Rewolinski Steve | 629 |
21 | Barber Mike | 628 |
22 | Bunner Larry | 557 |
23 | Volk Glen | 516 |
24 | Stebbins George | 512 |
25 | Funk Dean | 476 |
Of course the pilots who went to Australia got a head start. Bo has four meets that count now and Kevin has three meets. Other pilots have only two meets that count. Both Bo and Kevin have meets with low points that can be overcome with better results in 2004.
It takes about 1,900 NTSS points to gain a place on the US National flex wing team. That means you've got to average about 475 points per meet to make it. Placing first in a fully valid, well attended meet gives you 660 points.
There are five USHGA sanctioned meets in the US in 2004 - Flytec, South Florida, Team Challenge, CXCC, US Nats. All these meets are worth at least 330 points to the flex wing winner (with a minimal number of days flying). The rest of the pilots get a percentage of the winner's points.
See https://OzReport.com/calendar.php for a list of the competition in 2004.
35 topics in this article: Bo Hagewood, Bubba Goodman, calendar, Carlos Bessa, Chelan XC Classic 2004, Chris Zimmerman, Claire Vassort, competition, Curt Warren, Davis Straub, Dean Funk, Dennis Pagen, Flytec Championships 2004, George Stebbins, Glen Volk, Jerz Rossignol, Jim Lee, Kari Castle, Kevin Carter, Krzysztof "Krys/Kris" Grzyb, Larry Bunner, Mark Bolt, Mike Barber, NTSS, Paris Williams, Phil Bloom, Richard Sauer, Scott Angel, South Florida Championships 2004, Steve Rewolinski, Tennessee Tree Toppers Team Challenge 2004, Terry Presley, USHGA, US Nationals 2004, Worlds 2004
NTSS – yes to foreign flights »
Thu, Aug 28 2003, 5:00:01 pm EDT
Glen Volk|Mike Barber|NTSS|USHGA|Worlds
Glen Volk «gvolk» responds to my article asking for the USHGA Competition Rulebook change that disallows NTSS points for foreign competition:
Now, I should be the first one to support this because if it had been in effect during the last couple of years I might have made this year’s team. However, I do not.
The pilots that put it to the limit and go out of their way to compete on an international level deserve the slot on the team if they qualify through the points earned by flying in those meets. Many of us either do not have the means or the desire to do this, but we should not penalize the pilots that are willing to make that sacrifice.
I believe this policy would only serve to hurt the US more in future World Team competitions. We need our pilots to go head to head with the Europeans, Aussies, South Americans (okay...Canadians too-:) and on their home turf if we ever hope to consistently compete successfully against them.
Speaking for myself the disadvantage placed upon me for not competing abroad is far outweighed by the experience our top pilots bring back to the States in our own national meets and in the ultimate goal of creating a dominating World Team force. Of course, that's just my opinion and it may not be shared by the majority of competition pilots. I am curious to find out.
(editor’s note: I don’t know if Glen saw the article I wrote last spring on the Brazilian Nationals system. The Brazilian national team is determined by the results of three national meets, and only those meets. They are currently kicking our collective butts in the Worlds. Picking their team from national meets doesn’t seem to hurt them.
Of course, I think that international flying experience is great. Might as well get my butt kicked in other countries as well as in America. I realize that there would be less incentive for American pilots to fly in Australia (essentially) if the NTSS points were only awarded in the US, but I doubt if that would change the composition of the team.
Mike Barber didn’t fly in Australia this year, and he was ranked number two on the US team. Carlos didn’t fly in Australia and got all his points that counted from US meets. Jerz and Kari really didn’t need the Australian meets this year.
I’d like to see more reasons for US meets that is the top competition pilots clambering for more US competitions. I think we can have a fair, inclusive, and top notch NTSS system if we just use American meets. The Brazilians do it, why can’t we?)
Discuss NTSS at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
5 topics in this article: Glen Volk, Mike Barber, NTSS, USHGA, Worlds
NTSS – no foreign competitions »
Wed, Aug 27 2003, 5:00:02 pm EDT
NTSS|USHGA|Worlds
I have proposed to the USHGA competition committee that they drop the ability for hang glider pilots to use foreign competitions to gain NTSS points after March 1st 2004, except for the pre-Worlds (you can’t get points for the Worlds).
The date is chosen so that pilots who were planning to go to Australia this year before this change is proposed can go ahead and do so and get points. The Rulebook wouldn’t take effect until 2004 anyway, and this just doesn’t upset the plans of any pilot at the last minute. It doesn’t affect me as there are almost no rigid wing points in Australia.
The allowance for the pre-Worlds is in recognition of the fact that in some cases top pilots are denied the chance to gain NTSS points in US meets because they are attending the pre-Worlds in foreign countries.
The point of the change is to make it so pilots can get on the US National team without having necessarily to fly in foreign competitions (in particular, Australian competitions). Also to encourage the further development of US competitions, both national and regional.
Discuss NTSS points at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
2003 Team Challenge »
aerotow|competition|David "Dave" Glover|David Glover|GPS|NTSS|scoring|sport|Sport Class|Tennessee Tree Toppers|towing|USHGA
Jeff Dodgen <windgypsy@bledsoe.net> writes:
Team Challenge 2003 is September 21-27. David Glover will be the meet Director and Tim Meany will be scorekeeper. David is applying for USHGA regular and Sport Class sanctioning. The field will be limited to 70 pilots so register early ($125 early registration).
The Team Challenge has historically been a fun meet with a competitive edge. It is an opportunity for experienced pilots to mentor new pilots and new pilots to learn cross country and competition skills. David is planning a meet that will allow nationally ranked pilots to earn NTSS points. These ranked pilots will be teamed up with less experienced pilots interested in learning cross country and competition flying skills.
Scoring will be designed such that the more pilots from the same team that make it to goal and the closer the entire team makes it to goal, the more team points will be awarded to that team. This will benefit all by encouraging the current nationally ranked pilots to mentor and coach their less experienced teammates.
Distance to goal and time to goal will all be considered. Foot launching is the priority with towing available based on conditions.
You must be Intermediate (Hang 3) for Whitwell launch and have an aerotow signoff to aerotow prior to the meet. You will need a GPS for national point scoring, but will not be necessary for team scores. This is a good time to get a GPS and learn how to use it!
The Tennessee Tree Toppers will host a party the night before the competition starts on Saturday September 20th. A $10.00 donation will be waived for registered competition pilots, but otherwise required as this party will be catered.
The Awards Pizza Dinner will be held on the last night of the event at the dome. If you have some great videos - bring 'em. If you have some vintage slides - we'd love to see those too!!
Discuss "2003 Team Challenge" at the Oz Report forum link»
12 topics in this article: aerotow, competition, David "Dave" Glover, David Glover, GPS, NTSS, scoring, sport, Sport Class, Tennessee Tree Toppers, towing, USHGA
Why zero for US competitions?
Bill Bolosky|CIVL|comic|Comic Sans|competition|cost|Dennis Pagen|Jim Zeiset|NAA|NTSS|Roman Dobler|software|USHGA|Worlds|Zapata
The USHGA pays the NAA between $15,000 and $18,000 a year in dues plus the cost of sending the CIVL delegate and perhaps the alternate to the annual CIVL Plenary plus other costs so that:
-.5in;mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .75in">1)We can belong to CIVL
-.5in;mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .75in">2)US National teams (less than two dozen pilots) can fly in the Worlds (or the Europeans in which very few American ever fly)
-.5in;mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;tab-stops:list .75in">3)A few pilots can attempt World Records (and pay the NAA dearly for them).
Now, as a US National team member I’m going to appreciate being able to go to Austria next year to fly in the Worlds in Greiffenberg, and attempt Word Records at the fifth annual WRE in Zapata. So thanks all of you very much.
The question I and others have is this, is this the best use of all the money that the USHGA spends on competition? Are we just doing this out of inertia? Are we doing it because we think we have to, but we don’t have to spend money to promote competitions in the US, so we don’t?
The USHGA in fact inhibits competitions in the US (as well as helps). It charges fees and requires deposits. It demands a good deal of work on the part of the meet organizers. It requires proposals and presentations at the fall BOD meeting. But what does it do in return?
It provides a rulebook. It provides an NTSS point system.
It doesn’t help meet organizers. It doesn’t train them or meet directors. It doesn’t provide score keeping software. Nor train scorekeepers. It doesn’t help with registration. It doesn’t encourage more competitions or regional competitions. It doesn’t help fund competitions. It doesn’t encourage pilots to enter competitions. It doesn’t try to keep the fees down.
In the Australian Nationals, two years ago, if you had never entered the Australian Nationals it was free to enter.
Does the USHGA want to have a competition system? Do they want to support it and grow it? Do they want to see more competitions? Are they willing to spend their money to make it happen?
I’m part of the USHGA. I’m responsible for rewriting the rulebook. I’m a voting member of the competition committee which may or may not have something to say about whether the USHGA funds the NAA or not. I handle the NTSS points.
Do you want this to change? If so then you need to organize and contact your regional director, competition committee chairman, Dennis Pagen (who appears to be in charge of this), Jim Zeiset (the USHGA CIVL representative), Bill Bolosky, the USHGA president, and all those who actually make a decision (okay, that may only be Dennis).
Discuss CIVL/NAA at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
Discuss "Why zero for US competitions?" at the Oz Report forum link»
15 topics in this article: Bill Bolosky, CIVL, comic, Comic Sans, competition, cost, Dennis Pagen, Jim Zeiset, NAA, NTSS, Roman Dobler, software, USHGA, Worlds, Zapata
My response to Jayne’s article
book|CIVL|competition|cost|David "Dave" Glover|David Glover|FAI|FAI Sporting License|Jayne DePanfilis|NAA|NTSS|record|site|USHGA|world record
“There ain’t no free lunch.” But I wish these freeloaders would quit eating mine!
Thanks to Jayne’s piece I have a opportunity and motivation to write about something that has been on my list for a while.
Jayne has spoken to the issue of Sporting Licenses. CIVL officials were wondering why Americans were complaining about having to have Sporting Licenses for their CIVL category 2 sanctioned meets. After all they just got FAI Sporting Licenses as a condition of their membership in their national hang gliding association. So why would we complain?
Well when they finally understood that it cost each pilot an extra $35/year to have an FAI Sporting License (and the money went to the NAA and not to FAI/CIVL), then they began to see why we might have a problem with their demand that every competition require FAI Sporting Licenses. Talk about adding another barrier to getting pilots into competition in the US.
This whole discussion came up with the thought of dropping all the CIVL sanctioning of our meets because we didn’t want to burden the pilots with an additional cost. CIVL plans to start punishing meet directors would don’t demand and verify proof of FAI Sporting Licenses from all the pilots in the meet. Well, we could just drop the CIVL sanctioning, opt out of the European dominated WPRS system, and be done with it.
Of course, in other countries all the members of the association “subsidize” those members who need Sporting Licenses by having a portion of their membership fees go to pay a fee which supports the issuance of “free” Sporting Licenses to the membership. The Sporting License is just a tax, like a stamp tax, and like that tax, we have very little say in how it is used.
Like Sporting Licenses, other national hang gliding associations “subsidize” those members who attempt world records by paying their national aeroclub associations to homologate the records without requiring that the individual world record applicant pay those fees. The cost is the cost of having some individual around with the skills required to homologate world record attempts, and having that person verify the record and process the paperwork up to CIVL (with their $70 fee).
The USHGA, under then President David Glover, opted out of this system (so then he subsequently had to pay through the nose for his own world record). Now the individual US pilot who attempts a world record, pays the fees.
All this, so that their world record can be “recognized” by an “official” body (FAI/CIVL). So that it can be published on the CIVL web site, and in the NAA’s fat little book of mostly inconsequential records. Big Whoop!
The individual pilot may ask himself or herself, is it worth the cost? The national hang gliding association has already made its decision that not worth it to them to have their association members set world records.
And we wonder why the Idaho pilots and meet organizers don’t want to have their meets sanctioned by the USHGA? We’ll think about it. The first requirement is USHGA membership, and that is a big burden on pilots who aren’t interested in USHGA membership. Second, sanction fees from the USHGA. Third, participation in the NTSS points system, which they don’t feel to be a legitimate measure of pilot skills.
I feel, in a manner similar to the Idaho pilots, that the NAA and CIVL offers very few benefits given the huge costs that we incur paying fees both as an organization to NAA and as individual pilots. A very small number of USHGA pilots are allowed to fly in CIVL sanctioned category 1 meets. Big whoop!
I think that the USHGA membership should “subsidize” competitions because it can help build the organization and the hang gliding community, but I don’t think giving all this money to the NAA is the best use of our competition funds.
So, let’s drop CIVL sanctioning for our US based competitions. Let’s reallocate our competition funds to support US-based competitions. Let’s hire a contract worker on a piece work basis to homologate records in the US. Let the USHGA be the “official” body that homologates these records and puts them up on their web site. Let’s restrict NTSS points to US-based competitions only.
Discuss competition funding at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
Discuss "My response to Jayne’s article" at the Oz Report forum link»
15 topics in this article: book, CIVL, competition, cost, David "Dave" Glover, David Glover, FAI, FAI Sporting License, Jayne DePanfilis, NAA, NTSS, record, site, USHGA, world record
NTSS points going into the US Nationals
Australia|Bo Hagewood|Bubba Goodman|Campbell Bowen|Carlos Bessa|Claire Vassort|Curt Warren|Davis Straub|Dennis Pagen|Florida|Jerz Rossignol|Jim Lee|Jim Yocom|Kari Castle|Mark Bolt|Mike Barber|NTSS|NTSS ranking|Paris Williams|US Nationals|Worlds|Worlds 2003
Here’s now things stack up with the NTSS points this year going into the US Nationals in Big Spring at the end of the month. This 2004 NTSS ranking isn’t the one that is used for the 2003 Worlds in Brazil, but is the current NTSS points accumulation for 2002 and 2003.
Mike Barber didn’t go to Australia and cut his knee at the Wallaby Open so he doesn’t have a fourth high points meet. Kari, Jerz, and Curt where at the meets in Australia and got points there.
Claire is doing very well moving up. Dennis Pagen also. A lot could change at the Nationals. The Nationals is a very important meet this year as far as NTSS points are concerned. There are just three big points meets this year in the US – the Florida meets and the Nationals. The CXCC and the MidWest Regionals had fewer points.
Flex wings:
OzReport.com/Glide/2004class1ntss.htm
1 | Williams Paris | 2263 |
2 | Warren Curt | 2120 |
3 | Bessa Carlos | 2035 |
4 | Rossignol Jerz | 1992 |
5 | Castle Kari | 1920 |
6 | Barber Mike | 1766 |
7 | Lee Jim | 1738 |
8 | ZIMMERMAN Chris | 1728 |
9 | Hagewood Bo | 1609 |
10 | PRESLEY Terry | 1596 |
11 | Pagen Dennis | 1451 |
12 | SAUER Richard | 1355 |
13 | Goodman Bubba | 1338 |
14 | VASSORT Claire | 1327 |
15 | Bolt Mark | 1222 |
Rigid wings:
OzReport.com/Glide/2004class5ntss.htm
1 | BARMAKIAN Bruce | 1825 |
2 | Straub Davis | 1578 |
3 | Yocom Jim | 1439 |
4 | GLEASON Ron | 1432 |
5 | BIESEL Heiner | 1396 |
6 | Bowen Campbell | 1350 |
7 | ENDTER Vincent | 1316 |
8 | POUSTICHIAN Mark | 1032 |
9 | LAMB James | 883 |
10 | DEGTOFF Mike | 837 |
Discuss NTSS at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
Discuss "NTSS points going into the US Nationals" at the Oz Report forum link»
22 topics in this article: Australia, Bo Hagewood, Bubba Goodman, Campbell Bowen, Carlos Bessa, Claire Vassort, Curt Warren, Davis Straub, Dennis Pagen, Florida, Jerz Rossignol, Jim Lee, Jim Yocom, Kari Castle, Mark Bolt, Mike Barber, NTSS, NTSS ranking, Paris Williams, US Nationals, Worlds, Worlds 2003
US Nationals »
David "Dave" Glover|David Glover|NTSS|sport|Sport Class|US Nationals
David Glover <david@davidglover.com> writes:
Besides the regular NTSS system 3 new classes including "Sport Class" are available at the US Hang Gliding Nationals at Big Spring, Texas, July 27 to August 2, 2003.
Only pilots outside the top 20 nationally ranked are allowed to compete for "Sport Class" National Champion. Many see this as a way to allow the weekend pilots a chance at winning or place higher in this new class. I am applying for a guaranteed minimum 250 NTSS points for Sport Class, meaning you can still get ranking points. Kingpost and Floater champions will also be crowned at the Nationals. Tasks for these three classes may be truncated compared to the NTSS class.
For information and registration go to http://www.flytec.com Call David Glover 719.930.6967 or email <mailto:david@davidglover.com>
Discuss the US Nationals at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
Discuss "US Nationals" at the Oz Report forum link»
6 topics in this article: David "Dave" Glover, David Glover, NTSS, sport, Sport Class, US Nationals
USHGA NTSS Ranking
Florida|NTSS|Oz Report|site|USHGA
https://OzReport.com/compPilotRankings.php
You’ll find the latest NTSS rankings for Class 1 and Class 5 on the Oz Report web site. They have been updated to include the results of the latest Florida meets. I’ve probably missed a few new pilots who came to these meets in the ranking. If you aren’t there and care, e-mail me (<davis@davisstraub.com>) and I’ll make sure to include in a later update (soon).
Discuss pilot ranking at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
Discuss "USHGA NTSS Ranking" at the Oz Report forum link»
Going to the Midwestern Regionals
Bo Hagewood|Campbell Bowen|Davis Straub|NTSS|Paris Williams|Ron Gleason|Russell "Russ" Brown
So far I’ve heard that Bo Hagewood, Paris Williams, Mark P., Russell Brown, Davis Straub, Campbell Bowen, Ron Gleason and maybe others are going to this meet. It’s worth 250 NTSS points minimum. If you want to go, but sure to sign up before May 7th.
Discuss the midwest regionals at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
Discuss "Going to the Midwestern Regionals" at the Oz Report forum link»
7 topics in this article: Bo Hagewood, Campbell Bowen, Davis Straub, NTSS, Paris Williams, Ron Gleason, Russell "Russ" Brown
Midwest regionals
aerotow|book|Brad Kushner|CIVL|competition|David "Dave" Glover|David Glover|Dragonfly|flight park|Garmin GPS|GPS|landing|magazine|NTSS|photo|Raven Sky Sports|safety|school|site|Swift|tandem|tow|USHGA|weather
Here is the official announcement that went to Hang Gliding Magazine. Brad Kushner at Raven Sky Sports <brad@hanggliding.com> writes:
June 7-14, 2003: 2003 Midwest Regional Hang Gliding Competition at Raven Sky Sports.
Purpose: to have a safe, fun and fair competition. Our focus is to have a relaxing and affordable meet that is a great time for everyone involved.
Dates: June 7 (Saturday) - June 14 (Saturday), 2003. Potentially an 8-day meet, weather permitting.
Sanction: USHGA Class B and CIVL / NTSS points Flex, Rigid, and Swift class.
Location: Raven Sky Sports Flight Park at Twin Oaks Airport. N463 County Road N, Whitewater, Wisconsin 53190.
Facility: World's first dedicated aerotow flight park. 4 Dragonfly tow planes are planned for this event. Additional aerotow vehicles may be added. We have 3 grass runways for launches in up to 6 possible directions. Days are 15 hours long with sunset around 8:30pm in June.
Meet format: cross-country race to goal with or without turnpoints.
Rules: 2003 USHGA Competition Rulebook, latest edition.
Registration: Begins March 12, 2003. Limit ~30-40 competitors (to be determined).
Entry Fee: $300, 50% deposit required to validate registration (add $50 after May 7).
To Enter: email: <comp@hanggliding.com> or by phone: (262)473-8800 or by fax: (262)473-8801.
Meet Organizer: Brad Kushner and Team Raven
Meet Director: David Glover
Safety Director: Bob Linebaugh
Score Keeper: To be determined.
Awards and Prizes: To be determined. Minimum will equal (# of contestants) times ($50), fairly distributed.
Mandatory Pilot Briefing: 5:15 pm - Friday, June 6, 2003.
Contingency Plans: No official rest days are planned. The meet will be up to 8 days in length, weather permitting. Sunday, June 15 will be a contingency day, to be added in the event that flight tasks are cancelled by the meet director on 4 or more days due to weather or other causes.
Other info: Welcome to our first-ever Regional/Points Meet, we aim to make it great. Volunteers will be greatly appreciated. Applications will be accepted in the order received until capacity is reached. Pilots who have not competed before must have approval of meet organizer, meet director and/or safety director. Prior experience in a USHGA aerotow competition is helpful, but not required. Pilots must have current USHGA Advanced ratings (or foreign equivalent) with aerotow and turbulence signoffs. Additional signoffs for restricted landing field and cross-country will be weighed favorably.
Intermediate rated pilots (with appropriate experience and skills) may be allowed at the discretion of the meet director. Foreign pilots will be required to have USHGA 90-day competition membership (available on site at time of contest). Approved Garmin GPS units may be required (to be determined). Aerotows for recreational flying and tandem lessons will be available every day, but will shut down (in favor of the competitors' needs) during the competition launch window.
Photo of airport (looking southeast) was one that you published last summer, showing our main runway N/S, and our shorter E/W runway (at bottom of photo), and our newest NE/SW runway, then under development…we seeded that runway in the autumn, and it's greening up nicely this spring.
Competitors can book reservations at the local AmeriHost Inn, only two miles from the flight park, at special discounted rates. There are also two other motels in Whitewater, but they have neither a swimming pool, nor a hang glider with mannequin to hang over it (photo). Purple and White are the school colors at UW-Whitewater.
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24 topics in this article: aerotow, book, Brad Kushner, CIVL, competition, David "Dave" Glover, David Glover, Dragonfly, flight park, Garmin GPS, GPS, landing, magazine, NTSS, photo, Raven Sky Sports, safety, school, site, Swift, tandem, tow, USHGA, weather
USHGA NTSS Ranking
Bo Hagewood|Bubba Goodman|Campbell Bowen|Carlos Bessa|Chris Arai|competition|Curt Warren|Davis Straub|Glen Volk|Jerz Rossignol|Jim Lee|Jim Yocom|Jim Zeiset|Kari Castle|Mark Bolt|Mike Barber|NTSS|NTSS ranking|Paris Williams|USHGA|Worlds
Flex wings:
1 | Williams Paris | 2413 |
2 | Barber Mike | 2263 |
3 | Warren Curt | 2120 |
4 | Rossignol Jerz | 2046 |
5 | Bessa Carlos | 2035 |
6 | Castle Kari | 1922 |
7 | Lee Jim | 1921 |
8 | Hagewood Bo | 1804 |
9 | ZIMMERMAN Chris | 1798 |
10 | Volk Glen | 1784 |
11 | PRESLEY Terry | 1679 |
12 | Bolt Mark | 1634 |
13 | Arai Chris | 1602 |
14 | SAUER Richard | 1468 |
15 | Goodman Bubba | 1458 |
This is the flex wing NTSS ranking that determines who goes to Brazil on the US National team. There are six members of the team. Carlos is eligible for the US or the Brazilian national team. He says that he will fly for the US. You might notice the number of points separating sixth and seventh place.
Rigids:
Rank | Pilot | Total |
1 | BARMAKIAN Bruce | 1825 |
2 | Straub Davis | 1578 |
3 | Yocom Jim | 1439 |
4 | GLEASON Ron | 1432 |
5 | BIESEL Heiner | 1396 |
6 | Bowen Campbell | 1350 |
7 | ENDTER Vincent | 994 |
8 | LAMB James | 883 |
9 | DEGTOFF Mike | 837 |
10 | Zeiset Jim | 800 |
The current ridge wing ranking doesn’t affect anything as any US pilots can go fly in the pre-Worlds in Greifenburg if they like.
The full NTSS pilot ranking will be up next week after it gets reviewed. Check out OzReport.com to find the NTSS ranking under the competition menu item.
Discuss the national team and Brazil at OzReport.com/forum/phpBB2
Discuss "USHGA NTSS Ranking" at the Oz Report forum link»
21 topics in this article: Bo Hagewood, Bubba Goodman, Campbell Bowen, Carlos Bessa, Chris Arai, competition, Curt Warren, Davis Straub, Glen Volk, Jerz Rossignol, Jim Lee, Jim Yocom, Jim Zeiset, Kari Castle, Mark Bolt, Mike Barber, NTSS, NTSS ranking, Paris Williams, USHGA, Worlds
USHGA – what have you done for me lately? »
Dale Branham|Dennis Pagen|J.C. Brown|Jamie Shelden|Josh Cohn|Mike Daily|NAA|NTSS|Ron Gleason|Scott "Scotty" Ireland|Scotty Marion|USHGA
Ron Gleason <xcflying@earthlink.net> writes:
You must include all types of competitions, not XC competitions. Along with the HG XC competitions the competition committee, under the direction of JC Brown, sanctioned (I may have the numbers wrong) 3 PG competitions, 2 SG competitions and also sanctioned the Chelan XC Classic.
Also:
You wrote:
In June Ron Gleason, the head of the US national team, lobbied CIVL to let Jamie Sheldon fly a flex wing in the Worlds.
My response:
CIVL also approved an exemption for Mike Daily so that he could fly in the Worlds. Both Dennis Pagen (USHGA and CIVL) and Art Greenfield (NAA) were instrumental in securing these exemptions.
You wrote:
Some controversy arose re PG pilots and their ranking due to multiple European contests. Don’t know if it got settled.
My response:
On Monday October 1, 2002 I sent the following email to the folks involved with the discussion:
---
Decision/Statement: There is to be a maximum of 2 foreign, or non-USHGA sanctioned, meets to be counted toward PG NTSS points. This change was approved in October 2001 to take effect starting January 2002. The change did not get into the 2002 rulebook but will be used to calculate the 2002 PG NTSS standings.
Details: The approved notes from PG sub-committee of the competition committee for the October 2001 meeting contained the followed the change
Josh Cohn motioned that of the four meets in two years that count for the PGNTSS, two should be USHGA sanctioned meets. Dale Covington seconded the motion. The motion was discussed. The motion passed unanimously.
---
One of the actions that I wanted to get covered before I put a decision in writing but was unable to, was to have the effected pilots, Scotty Marion and Grego Lasek, contacted to ensure that they understood the rules and the ruling. If Scotty or Grego is hearing about this situation for the first time, they can contact me directly via email or cell phone to discuss. My contact information is: <xcflying@earthlink.net> and cell phone number is (303) 204-4143.
When making decisions it is allows a balancing act between covering all bases and time.
(editor’s note: While the notification of the 2 meet limit was apparently published in Paragliding Magazine, it didn’t get into the 2002 USHGA Competition Rulebook and since the minutes weren’t available until a few days ago on the USHGA web site, you couldn’t find out about it there.
Anyone else out there with a response to my question – What has the USHGA done for me lately?)
Discuss "USHGA – what have you done for me lately?" at the Oz Report forum link»
12 topics in this article: Dale Branham, Dennis Pagen, J.C. Brown, Jamie Shelden, Josh Cohn, Mike Daily, NAA, NTSS, Ron Gleason, Scott "Scotty" Ireland, Scotty Marion, USHGA
USHGA – What have you done for me lately? »
Aaron Swepston|CIVL|Competition Committee|Dennis Pagen|FAA|Hang Gliding Magazine|Jamie Shelden|Jayne DePanfilis|NTSS|Paul Klemond|Ron Gleason|USHGA
Why all the hub bub in the Oz Report lately about the USHGA? Well, of course, it is BOD meeting time again and with the flying season winding down here in the northern hemisphere, the whining season begins.
I personally think that it is great that we have a USHGA and appreciate very much all the effort that the volunteers and staff put out on our behalf. We couldn’t have hang gliding in the US without the USHGA.
That said, I feel perfectly justified in raising issues and concerns that the USHGA, its volunteers and staff should address. I’m not trying to destroy or bad mouth the USHGA, for that turn to the hang gliding digest, just provide helpful criticism because I know that they want to hear from the field.
With that in mind, the thought came to me, just what has the USHGA done for me (the membership) since the spring (February) BOD meeting? What do members hear from the USHGA and how do they feel that it is helping or hurting them. Perhaps if you have some thoughts about this you can write in and tell other Oz Report readers.
At the spring BOD meeting, the big issue was the Sport Pilot initiative from the FAA and how this would impact towing and flight parks in particular (OzReport.com/Ozv6n34.htm). The USHGA volunteers and executive had a big hand in keeping members informed and working out a position paper that was more extensive than any other sport aviation’s paper that was sent into the FAA during the comment period. I feel that the membership owes a big thank you to everyone involved in this many year effort, that continues to this day and beyond.
Next Dennis Pagen, the USHGA representative at CIVL, helped change the class structure for rigid wing hang gliders and Swifts, which is greatly appreciated. Unfortunately CIVL left Swifts and ATOSes in the same world record class and Dennis went on a tirade about the Oz Report (OzReport.com/Ozv6n44.htm).
The USHGA Competition Committee sanctioned the Florida meets and US Open in Big Spring, Texas.
Hang Gliding Magazine, the official organ of the USHGA continues publishing. The May issue came out as a joint hang gliding and paragliding issue and USHGA members voted to combine the magazines.
In May Jayne DePanfilis, our USHGA executive director, went to Washington, D.C. to meet with other sport aviation associations and lobby for our view of the Sport Pilot initiative.
In June Ron Gleason, the head of the US national team, lobbied CIVL to let Jamie Sheldon fly a flex wing in the Worlds.
Aaron Swepston took over as art director for the magazines and the combined magazine. Jayne hung in there as our executive director.
USHGA maintained pilot and site insurance.
There were some minor tweaks and updates to the USHGA web site. I tracked and published the USHGA NTSS hang glider pilot ranking. Paul Klemond did the same for PG pilots. Some controversy arose re PG pilots and their ranking due to multiple European contests. Don’t know if it got settled.
Okay, that does it for me. What has the USHGA done for you lately?
Discuss "USHGA – What have you done for me lately?" at the Oz Report forum link»
12 topics in this article: Aaron Swepston, CIVL, Competition Committee, Dennis Pagen, FAA, Hang Gliding Magazine, Jamie Shelden, Jayne DePanfilis, NTSS, Paul Klemond, Ron Gleason, USHGA
Sports Class
Josef "Joe" "Hangczech" Bostik|Nick Kennedy|NTSS|Tove Heaney
Nick Kennedy <nkavalancheranch@yahoo.com> writes:
I'm not positive if a "sports class" in HG would fly or not right now, but it sure has been a big hit in sailplanes.
Back in like '82-'84 a HG sports class was tried but failed, but remember this was the full on Testosterone charged "golden age of XC" as I see it. We were all young and fearless flying gliders that I felt were safer tumble wise (I could be wrong here, I think the weather has turned harsher also) and it was perceived as a class for wimps. Would it have participation now?
(editor’s note: I was 38 in 1984. Joe Bostik won the US Nationals a few years later on a Wills Wing Sport.)
I'd say 75% of the pilots in the last 6Florida meets I've been to could give a accurate guess of their final placing before the contest even started. I know I can look at the entry list after 17 comp years and get a real close estimate to where I will be on the last day.
Say you call a task of Wallaby, Coleman and back. Ok. Sports class could go Wallaby, Quest and Back.
(editor’s note: This was the way it was done at the Australian Open with its three classes – floater, kingposted, and racer)
Devalue the NTSS points for sports class maybe even, who cares?
(editor’s note: I think that could work.)
We just want to get to goal and land with our friends.
Example, Task 2 Wallaby, Zephryhills,LakeWales and back. Sports class: Wallaby,LakeWales and back. Direct to a goal doesn't work, but too bad on that day at least we tried to make the effort to shorten the task for sports class when we can.
(editor’s note: It doesn’t work for getting everyone together at goal, but throw in a dog leg for the racers and you solve that problem.)
I just don't see a lot of newUS pilots getting into the comp scene, just look atTexas.
(editor’s note: There were new pilots at the US Open. It was a very successful meet. Given how much time David had to put it together, I thought it was well attended. I think a lot more pilots will be interested in going there in 2003.)
Take all the International pilots out of theFlorida comps, (which are for sure, hot and in vogue right now, but won't be forever) and the numbers are so so, and with so so numbers it's tough to put on a quality meet as you well know.
(editor’s note: Tove had the most successful meet of the year last year and it was because of her innovations – three classes and three tasks. I agree that this would be great and I encourage any meet organizer in the USto follow her example.
I’m trying to think what USHGA Competition Rulebook changes need to be in place to encourage this. Maybe it could just be run as a separate competition, like Tove did, and have the total NTSS points that are brought to the meet by the pilots who declare that they want to compete in the sport class for this meet to be worth ⅔rd’s of the total. It seems like that would work.)
Discuss "Sports Class" at the Oz Report forum link»
4 topics in this article: Josef "Joe" "Hangczech" Bostik, Nick Kennedy, NTSS, Tove Heaney
NTSS points - I made a mistake
Bo Hagewood|Carlos Bessa|Chris Zimmerman|Curt Warren|Glen Volk|Jerz Rossignol|Jim Lee|Kari Castle|Mike Barber|NTSS|Paris Williams
When I made the latest NTSS calculations, I forgot that the pre-Worlds are worth more than other meets for the NTSS system. With all the highly ranked pilots at the pre-Worlds they were worth 675 points instead of 600 points. I did use 675 points for the 2001 Worlds. Therefore the latest NTSS flex wing ranking is as follows:
1 | Williams Paris | 2413 |
2 | Barber Mike | 2263 |
3 | Rossignol Jerz | 1986 |
4 | Warren Curt | 1916 |
5 | Bessa Carlos | 1845 |
6 | Castle Kari | 1807 |
7 | Volk Glen | 1784 |
8 | Zimmerman Chris | 1739 |
9 | Lee Jim | 1695 |
10 | Hagewood Bo | 1682 |
The big move is that Kari, who went to the pre-Worlds, moved up on slippin’ and slidin’ Glen Volk, who stayed home. All the top six NTSS ranked pilots went to the pre-Worlds.
The Worlds are no longer used for NTSS point. Although the points from the 2001 Worlds could be used, it turns out they aren’t as pilots had higher points from other meets.
I suggest that we drop this provision from the USHGA Competition Rulebook that gives only the pre-Worlds these extra points. This suggestion would apply only to the pre-Worlds yet to come.
Discuss "NTSS points - I made a mistake" at the Oz Report forum link»
11 topics in this article: Bo Hagewood, Carlos Bessa, Chris Zimmerman, Curt Warren, Glen Volk, Jerz Rossignol, Jim Lee, Kari Castle, Mike Barber, NTSS, Paris Williams
More and better US competitions?
competition|NTSS|USHGA
While the US has a reasonably good system for choosing the best competition pilots to fly in international competitions, it doesn’t have much of a system for encouraging the development of new and regional pilots. New pilots have few local competitions to go to, and are left to flounder around when they venture out to one of the big four national competitions.
Pilots need encouragement to continue to improve their skills. Good competition pilots aren’t born, but nurtured.
While competition isn’t the be all and end all of hang gliding it is a significant component and provides many benefits to the organization as well as to individual pilots. A strong competition system will encourage the growth of the sport both by attracting new pilots and by encouraging glider development by manufacturers.
I have recently proposed some small changes to the USHGA Competition Rulebook (OzReport.com/Ozv6n167.htm and OzReport.com/Ozv6n168.htm) that I think will encourage more competitions throughout the US. By guaranteeing NTSS points at a minimal level, more competitions allow pilots to gain NTSS points and improve their ranking. This gets pilots into the NTSS system and encourages them to further improve their ranking. After all, someone is looking.
I want to encourage our BOD members to think about ways that changes in the Competition Rulebook can encourage greater participation in competition and the NTSS system. Hopefully we can come up with improvements that make competition more attractive to both potential organizers and pilots who might think about giving it a try.
Discuss "More and better US competitions?" at the Oz Report forum link»
3 topics in this article: competition, NTSS, USHGA
Midwest Regionals
Midwest Regionals 2002|Brad Kushner|Hang Gliding Magazine|NTSS|Raven Sky Sports|Ron Gleason|USHGA BOD|Wisconsin Hang Gliding Club
Brad Kushner <brad@hanggliding.com> writes:
Raven Sky Sports and the Wisconsin Hang Gliding Club are pleased to announce that we'll be hosting the Midwest Regional Hang Gliding Competition over the July 4th long weekend.
(editor’s note: I don’t believe that this is a ‘real’ regionals, in that it isn’t sanctioned by the USHGA BOD CC as a Class B meet and there aren’t any NTSS points. Still, it certainly is a start and sure could be a model for other regions. This is a very good idea and we should support Brad and other flight parks and clubs to put on regionals.
How can we do this? First, let’s make sure that the Competition Committee will do everything they can to encourage clubs and parks to put on regional competitions. Second, let’s give regional competitions 300 NTSS points (in lieu of any NTSS points brought by pilots), irrespective of who comes. We’ve got to get some points in the pot for anyone who goes to get any points at all. Third, let’s let clubs and parks send in short form applications for regional meets, and let them be approved in the USHGA BOD spring meeting and at e-mail ‘meetings’ of the CC.
Fourth, let meet organizers get some funds from the USHGA to hire a consultant to help them learn how to act as a meet director and scorekeeper. There is plenty of expertise around that can help them out (BTW, this small sum could also be used to help offset the cost of hiring experienced people as director and scorekeeper. Also, the chairman of the CC needs to recuse himself from this discussion as he is a possible hiree.)
Fifth, reduce the sanction fee to zero. Sixth, encourage competitions by publishing their story, after the fact, in Hang Gliding Magazine.
I’m sure that there is a lot more than can be done. The regionals aren’t happening in the US, and like the lack of American Championships, I’m sure that there are plenty of rules that discourage anyone from putting on a regionals. We currently have a competition system that is broken at the regional level, and we need to fix it.
We’ve got to look closely at what we are doing to discourage organizers from putting on regionals and turn that around. Maybe there won’t be any additional regionals, but then at least the Competition Rulebook won’t be standing in the way.
I’ll ask Ron Gleason, who, I believe, is in charge of the sub committee looking at the rulebook, to go over the rules and see what can be changed. He can then make proposed changes at the fall BOD meeting. I’ll be able to go over this with him next month in Chelan.)
Discuss "Midwest Regionals" at the Oz Report forum link»
8 topics in this article: Midwest Regionals 2002, Brad Kushner, Hang Gliding Magazine, NTSS, Raven Sky Sports, Ron Gleason, USHGA BOD, Wisconsin Hang Gliding Club
USHGA NTSS ranking
USHGA|NTSS
Johann Posch|NTSS|USHGA
Johann Posch|NTSS|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
Jersey Rossignol|Johann Posch|NTSS|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
David Sharp|Jersey Rossignol|Johann Posch|NTSS|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
David Sharp|Davis Straub|Jersey Rossignol|Johann Posch|NTSS|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
David Sharp|Davis Straub|Glen Volk|Jersey Rossignol|Johann Posch|NTSS|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
David Sharp|Davis Straub|Glen Volk|Jersey Rossignol|Johann Posch|NTSS|Paris Williams|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
David Sharp|Davis Straub|Glen Volk|Jersey Rossignol|Johann Posch|Kari Castle|NTSS|Paris Williams|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
David Sharp|Davis Straub|Glen Volk|Jersey Rossignol|Johann Posch|Kari Castle|NTSS|Paris Williams|Steve Rewolinski|USHGA
The "provisional" USHGA pilot ranking has been updated after the results of the Lone Star Championships in Hearne, Texas. These rankings plus the results of any meets held sufficiently before the 2001 Worlds, will determine who flies on the US National team at the Worlds in Spain in 2001. For example, if there are meets held in Florida in the spring, they will count toward NTSS ranking.
Flex wing ranking:
1 |
Lee Jim |
1802 |
2 |
Williams Paris |
1423 |
3 |
Barber Mike |
1388 |
4 |
Volk Glen |
1269 |
5 |
Rossignol Jersey |
1179 |
6 |
Arai Chris |
1115 |
7 |
Hagewood Bo |
1114 |
8 |
Castle Kari |
1108 |
9 |
Rewolinski Steve |
1033 |
10 |
Sauer Richard |
961 |
Nine out of ten of these pilots flew in the Lone Star Championships.
Rigid wing ranking:
1 |
Porter Brian |
958 |
2 |
Straub Davis |
878 |
3 |
Posch Johann |
649 |
4 |
Sharp David |
635 |
5 |
Barmakian Bruce |
572 |
6 |
Zeiset Jim |
542 |
The complete ranking can be found at: http://www.davisstraub.com/Glide/2001ntss.htm
Discuss "USHGA NTSS ranking" at the Oz Report forum link»
US Pilot ranking
Tracy Tillman|NTSS
Sorry for the error of placing Tracy Tillman in the female category.
The full US pilot ranking can be found at http://www.davisstraub.com/Glide/2001ntss.htm.
Discuss "US Pilot ranking" at the Oz Report forum link»
2 topics in this article: Tracy Tillman, NTSS