Santa Cruz Flats Race here I come. I had so much fun last year I just had to come back again and actually compete this year. After watching my friends fly incredible flights at Big Spring last month, I am antsy to ascend the Arizona skies.

Packed with a car full of hang gliding gear, and the Arizona essentials of sun screen and bug spray, I leave dark and early tomorrow. Not that I’m superstitious, but I’m also happy to announce that my peace lily just bloomed, which can’t be a bad sign. The flower rose quite high above the rest of the plant (more than previous blooms) seemingly flying near the cloudbase of my living room.

Though I’m still flying my Wills Wing Sport 2 135 glider (possibly the last comp with it), I’ll be flying with a new-to-me single suspension harness—all buckled in and ready to go. My generous friend has loaned me his old competition Aeros Myth harness and I’ve replaced the zipper, cleaned it up, and adjusted it’s fit. So far I am loving the harness and the feel of the glider that a single suspension harness provides. How much extra glide it gives we’ll find out.

Sadly, this year’s event will be in memory of Mark Knight. I only briefly got to know him at last year’s race when he helped me with my aerotow rating. I will be forever thankful for that help. His passion for the sport, love of life, and selflessness toward helping others attain their dreams goes beyond words, and I am one of many affected for the better in life by him.

Follow me live at either:

Live Tracker or Air Tribune (if we create an event page—at the time of writing none has been setup)

I hope I have time for updates from the race, at least some Tweeting. Wish me luck!