More than 120 pilots are participating in this competition
by Dennis Rahm – LCN File photos from 2018 competition
Once again some of the top paragliders in the world have come to Chelan to participate in the 2019 U.S. Open of Paragliding. The event officially started on Sunday, July 6, with seven days of competition scheduled through Saturday, July 13.
Billed as America’s biggest paragliding competition, the event features pilots from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, Japan, Turkey, Brazil and several other countries. Chelan is considered one of the best flying competition venues in the United States.
More than 120 pilots participated in the first day of competition with Owen Shoemaker of the United States leading the way. Each day of flying involves a different task.
The paragliders launch from the top of Chelan Butte and the event is open to the public. However, please note that you must have a Discover Parking Pass to access the Butte. Passes are $10 per day or $30 for the season and are available at State Parks and several local merchants, including Kelly’s Hardware, Safeway and Walmart.
They can also be purchased on line by calling 866-320-9933.
For more information visit the event website at www.uspgopen.com.
