Bitterwasser, known for its excellent gliding conditions, recently offered an exceptional weather for long-distance flights. In optimal gliding weather, 20 launches took place, which the pilots present used to achieve impressive performances.
Of these 20 flights, 16 exceeded the 1000 km mark - proof of the exceptional thermals here. Particularly noteworthy are the achievements of Guy Bechtold and Frerk Frommholz, who together won the day with an impressive distance of 1320 km.
Another highlight was the performance of Margherita Acquaderni. She fulfilled the dream of every glider pilot: the flight of her first declared 1000 km diploma according to the requirements of the FAI (Fédération Aéronautique Internationale). As a symbol of this success and as a tradition in Bitterwasser, she will plant a palm tree in the famous palm tree allée, which has been planted by successful pilots as a sign of their achievements.
The results of this flight day are an impressive example of the potential of Bitterwasser as a gliding center. The combination of experienced pilots, first-class equipment and almost perfect weather conditions makes this place an indispensable meeting place for gliding enthusiasts worldwide.
The conditions in Bitterwasser will remain ideal for gliding in the next few days. The weather forecast continues to promise excellent thermals, so the chances of further impressive 1000 km flights are high. The pilots are preparing for the upcoming takeoffs with great anticipation and there is great anticipation of whether the impressive records of the current flight day can perhaps even be surpassed.
Although the season in Bitterwasser seems to be coming to an end in mid-January, the weather is at its best. Pilots from all over the world enjoy impressive thermals, breathtaking cross-country flights over 1000 km and a unique community.
The last season 2023/24 ended with a spectacular highlight for Dmitry Borovyk and Anton Minskii: on the very last day, they managed to fly around three declared turning points that cover an impressive distance of 1250 kilometers. This extraordinary achievement earned them the privilege of planting a palm tree in Bitterwasser - an honor only bestowed on the best pilots. One year later, the two are now returning to Bitterwasser to plant their palm tree in a festive ceremony in keeping with the old Bitterwasser tradition.