The above quote is widely attributed to Leonardo da Vinci – but apparently incorrectly. It’s such a brilliant quote and encapsulates the essence of gliding so beautifully – who cares!

Gliding is the ultimate flying experience, the purest form of flight that you can engage in. It is an activity that can be enjoyed at all levels: from the relaxation of a quiet local flight, experiencing the challenge of soaring across the countryside, the excitement of aerobatics, or the thrill of regional and international racing competitions.

Gliders (also known as ‘sailplanes’) soar using the same air currents that many birds use to fly but have also been designed with the kind of aerodynamic efficiency that enables top speeds approaching 300kph. Distances of over 1500 km have been flown in Australia and heights of over 40,000 feet have been reached – all utilising the natural air currents provided by the landscape below. Gliding gives you the freedom to explore the world from a unique birds-eye perspective whilst enjoying a safe and exciting sport.

It is a sport for all ages – from those who start early and fly solo on their 15th birthday through to mature age groups; there is no upper age limit provided you remain medically fit and able to get into and out of the glider with minimal assistance. Gliding is a silent and graceful way of flying without an engine. You may wonder how you get airborne, and how you stay up. You will find the answers to these questions and more here at the Gliding Club of Western Australia.