OBX – During my recent trip to the Outer Banks, I had the great opportunity to learn how to hang glide with Kitty Hawk Kites. The only disappointment? Not being there in Jockey Ridge State Park this weekend for the largest hang-gliding competition in the world.
Orville Wright used these sand dunes to perfect his technique, not only for hang gliding but also for the first mechanized air flight more than 100 years ago in 1903. The Wright Brothers Memorial is nearby with much more to do than you'd expect with a visitor's center, the sheds they used, the markers for each of their first four flights, an airstrip, a large monument atop Kill Devil Hill, and an impressive statue garden emulating those present at the first flight.
Our instructor, Michael, oozes confidence and knowledge while teaching students of all ages. In our two group sessions, there were more people over 50 learning for the first time than those under 50. Hang gliding is not only for the young.
Join Kitty Hawk Kites and the Hang-Gliding Pilots to watch these rated pilots compete in both Jockey's Ridge and Jarvisburg, NC
Schedule:
Thursday May 19
Aerotow Competition and Air Games (Jarvisburg)
Friday May 20
Dune Competition Day 1 (Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head)
Film & Photo Festival (Kill Devil Hills)
Saturday May 21
Dune Competition Day 2 (Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head)
KHK Instructor Reunion & Woddy Jones Memorial Street Dance (Nags Head)
Sunday May 22
Dune Competition Day 3 (Jockey's Ridge State Park, Nags Head)
Rogallo Hall of Fame Induction, Awards Ceremony, Rogallo Dinner (Nags Head)
