1. Glider competition cancelled after fatal crash west of Okotoks
2. Glider competition cancelled after tragic accident near Okotoks.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The recent glider crash near Diamond Valley on May 29 has left the soaring community in shock and mourning. The victim, a 65-year-old male resident of Calgary, was identified as a seasoned pilot participating in the 2024 Canadian National Soaring Championships. The event, hosted by the Cu Nim Gliding Club, was abruptly cancelled following the tragic incident.
Cancelled Competition and Weather Concerns
Competition director Tony Burton made the difficult decision to call off the championships as soon as news of the crash emerged. With unfavourable weather forecasts and only one scoreable competition day due to unstable and rainy conditions, this year’s contest was already declared a “no contest.” The championship, which began on May 22 and was scheduled to conclude on May 31, had to be cut short.
Twenty-eight pilots from Western Canada had registered for the competition, eager to showcase their skills in the challenging sport of gliding. The victim, described as an experienced cross-country pilot with previous contest experience, was a respected member of the Cu Nim Gliding Club.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The tragic crash occurred in a field south of Highway 7, approximately 18 kilometres west of Okotoks. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is currently investigating the incident, a process that could take months before any preliminary findings are released. President of the Alberta Soaring Council, Jason Acker, emphasised the safety measures in place within the sport of soaring, acknowledging the inherent risks involved.
While soaring is generally considered a safe sport, incidents like these serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that pilots face. Despite the rigorous safety protocols and skilled pilots involved in competitions, accidents can still occur. The loss of a pilot during a competition is a sombre moment for the soaring community, highlighting the importance of continual safety measures and vigilance.
As the soaring community mourns the loss of a fellow pilot, the Alberta Soaring Council and member organisations are committed to supporting the investigation and ensuring the safety of future competitions. While this year’s Canadian National Soaring Championships have been definitively cancelled, discussions on future events and safety enhancements are underway to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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– Fatal crash Glider competition cancelled west Okotoks
– Glider competition cancelled after fatal crash west Okotoks.
