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Video : Riding the Wind. A paraglider flight across the Alps.
reviewed by Jérôme Daoust. Created 2001/7/1, revised 2001/7/8.

This video was sent to me for evaluation by Alan Bradley of Nova / USA with “carte blanche” for my comments, good or bad. That is the way I like it.

Good points

Bad points

1. I felt that the pilot (Toni Bender) was humble, not someone cultivating an image. An accident for the pilot in previous years is indicated. 2. The flight is based on true XC skills, not just flashy aerobatics with an upbeat music. 3. The task is simple but ambitious : Crossing the Alps from North (Brauneck in the Bavarian Alps) to South (Bassano, 50 miles North of Venice). This accomplishment will live on, unlike temporary distances records. 4. Quality images. Viewed from the pilot’s perspective, air-to-air and ground-to-air. Real time (in flight) and time-lapse observation of clouds. 5. Realism. It is indicated that the pilot did not succeed on the first try for each portion of the course. Risks taken are pointed out. In-flight planning is described. 6. Weather (including a solar eclipse) is explained so anyone can understand.

1. English subtitles when the pilot speaks (in German), making viewers miss the action. Note that the overall narration is in English. 2. For people unfamiliar with the Alps in Europe, the course has little meaning as the indicated cities are not world famous.

General information :

1. Pilot : Toni Bender, flying a Nova / Prototype ?

2. Author / director : Wolfgang Brög.

3. Duration : 52 minutes.

4. Flight performed during summer of 1999 and represents 160 miles with 18 flying hours.

5. You can purchase this video from your local Nova dealer.

A few pictures from the video using my cheap TV video capture card (video is better that these pictures) …

Conclusion

A video to be shared with pilots or non-flying friends. It can inspire non-pilots to start paragliding thanks to its serious approach. A similar video is “Le Triangle” by Pierre Bouilloux (a re-creation of a record triangular flight, beaten since), but I prefer this one for the variety of conditions encountered and the project definition. I can envision this video being shown on national television as a documentary. Give me more of these reality videos.