Great record despite Corona

The pandemic did not leave Bitterwasser untouched this season either. There were cancellations, and the temporary classification of Namibia as a virus variant area in turn was not conducive. But: 112 pilots have enjoyed gliding here in good health and not so unsuccessfully: In the worldwide ranking of the online contest, Bitterwasser is currently at the top of the list.

In total 550,815 kilometers have come together in the OLC-Plus. With the exception of the short 2020/21 season, the previous years were not surpassed, but at least the connection was made. The pilots from Bitterwasser have broken the 1000 k mark 179 times in their total of 853 flights, 46 times they have come over 1100 kilometers and 17 times over 1200 kilometers. Most of these "1000 plus" are attributed to Guy Bechtold (13) and Reinhard Schramme (13).
However, Elmar Fischer and his various co-pilots set their own record. From the beginning to the end of the season, Elmar completed the most flights (40) and thus collected the most flying hours (225:53 h) and the most kilometers (26,485.62 km). But there are other evaluation criteria: Reinhard Schramme completed the fastest flight of the season with 168.35 kph. Wilfried Großkinsky finished second with 160.83 kph.

Go back

The Long Journey to Africa

In early September, the containers holding the gliders for the 2026/27 season were loaded in Waghäusel. Transported by trailer, truck, and cargo ship, the gliders are now on their long journey to Namibia, to the Bitterwasser Flying Lodge.

Winner Club Class

Two new world champions are heading to Bitterwasser!

The Bitterwasser Flying Lodge was the main sponsor of the Junior World Gliding Championships, where from August 2 to 17, 2026, around 80 pilots from 22 nations competed for the titles in the Standard and Club classes. The grand prize for the JWGC winners was a one-week stay at the lodge, including travel and an airplane.