Saturday 31 December 2011

Paragliding

For many years on my visits to Queenstown I have watched in admiration at the brave souls paragliding off the top of the gondola in Queenstown.

When we arrived in Queenstown we checked into our backpackers' accomodation that is situated near where the paragliders land. Once again I watched them come down, finding excuses not to do it. Money was always my number 1 excuse but it was a disguise for the real reason, being too timid. Jo suggested to me late in the afternoon that I should have a go.

We checked out at the Tourist Information about cost and availability. The man said, Now Was Good. I took a deep breath, put my hand in my pocket and got out the $230 for the jump with video.

From there I had an apprehensive gondola ride to the top of the hill above Queenstown and was weighed at the desk and my weight was put on my hand. I suppose for the pilot that is useful information.


I waited for 45 minutes for the next available pilot. Gavin escorted me to the grassy slope that we would soon be jumping off. He gave me some important take off instructions. The procedure was walk, power walk and run.




After a few minutes of hooking up and going through safety checks, we threw ourselves off the cliff. Strap yourselves in for a thrilling ride into Queenstown.



















Without any doubt it is the most amazing, thrilling experience I have ever had. The relief of successfully getting off the cliff and the floating effortlessly in the air is something that will stay with me forever. On safely arriving on firm ground I felt a great sense of achievement. It is definitely something I would love to do again.

8 comments:

Ellie said...

Wow, that looks fantastic. I wish I had the courage to do something like that.

Lea White said...

Wow, amazing photos! Finally I got to find out what you did and I can see why this was so special for you to do with your girls. Did they go the same time as you? It looks amazing. But I could never do this. Firstly I would never actually write my weight on my hand. Secondly I am simply not brave enough. But wow, what a way to end 2011! I bet you are really proud of yourself for doing this!

Forrest Carter said...

wow thats high mr forster

Paul said...

Hi Forrest
I soared and floated aloft. It sure was high and a bit scary. It was remarkable and formidable. I was slightly bewildered when they put my weight on my hand. Obviously I'm writing in our unique and distinctive language. Long live glossary!

Forrest Carter said...

if i was on that i would be scared as happy new years eve mr Forster .Forrest

Cenandra said...

How amazing Paul!!! Thank you or sharing those pictures with us! I would love to do that one day!

Paul Forster said...

Hi Forrest
It was scary at the start but really fun when I was soaring over Queenstown!

Victor e suas opiniƵes said...

That is so cool Mr. Paul, sorry about my late comments. Where I am Its being to get internet.