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1st solo fligt on my 14th birthday in Morarity, NM on November, 7 2007 Photo courtesy of Kevin Bielek, 11/16/2007
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1st solo fligt on my 14th birthday in Morarity, NM on November, 7 2007 Photo courtesy of Kevin Bielek, 11/16/2007
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Welcome Subaru Owners
Thank you for stopping by The Soaring Society of America's website. To get you started in finding a soaring location close to your home, or in one of your vacation destinations, go to the "Where to Fly page". There you will find soaring locations across the nation.
We are delighted you are interesting in learning more about soaring. If you have further questions, please contact The Soaring Society of America 575-392-1177 or feedback@ssa.org. We would be happy to get you started on a great adventure in motorless flight.
HOF Induction
It was a weekend full of soaring history and recognition at the National Soaring Museum on May 1st and 2nd. Following the first day's Historical Symposium, the Museum dedicated its main gallery to the memory of Richard Johnson, beloved soaring legend. Citing Dick's many accomplishments and contributions, Museum Director Peter Smith officially renamed the gallery, and Dick's widow Alice unveiled the beautiful bronze plaque. On hand with her for the ceremony were their sons Ira and Mark and daughter-in-law Anna.
Deserved is the only word to describe the newest inductee into the US Soaring Hall of Fame. Jim Payne has lived a life full of awards and accolades: 59 US soaring records, the World Distance Award, three Symons Lennie Pins, FAI 1000K Diplome, Diamond Badge, 1999 Open Class Champion, OLC Champion (USA 2007, World 2008), duPont, Hatcher and Stroukoff Trophies, the Tuntland Award and the Barron Hilton Cup. Jim pioneered high altitude speed records. The NAA has three times ranked a record of Jim's among their annual ten most memorable. He made seven flights over 1000K in 2007, nine in 2008.
Jim's contributions include articles in Soaring Magazine and many presentations at SSA Conventions and regional symposia, US Team Manager for five World Competitions, co-organizer of Return to Kitty Hawk. Past leadership positions include SSA Vice-Chair; SSA Regional Director; Chair, Contest Rules Committee; President, Sailplane Racing Association; Director, Collegiate Soaring Assn. He has also been recognized with the FAI Lilienthal Medal, the SSA Eaton Trophy, three Exceptional Service Awards, and an Exceptional Achievement Award.
US awarded 2012 World Soaring Championships
The US bid was successful and the IGC on Friday Mar 6 awarded the 2012 World Soaring Championship (Open, 18 meter and 15 meter classes) to the US! The US bid calls for the contest to be held in Uvalde, TX in July-Aug 2012.
Annual Eagle Fund Drive
Thanks to your past support of the SSA through the annual Eagle Fund Campaign, we have accomplished many things this last year. The SSA has emerged much stronger and ready to look forward to the future.
This year's Eagle Fund Campaign will focus on our membership with new projects being planned. The November issue of SOARING has a detailed article of what is being planned so far. Click here to read a letter from the Chairman of the Board, Dianne Black-Nixon concerning this year's campaign.
New Area Code for SSA Office
The area code for the SSA headquarters in Hobbs, NM has changed. The new contact numbers are...
- Phone: (575) 392-1177
- Fax: (575) 392-8154
