Harrison Lake
SIV is the abbreviation of “Simulation d’Incident en Vol” – French for “Simulation of Incidence in Flight” (an indication that much of paragliding was developed in France). A SIV course is about learning how to deal with problematic situations and is conducted over water (much safer than over ground) and under the supervision of an instructor.
Random Flying Picture
Our course with Tom took place at Harrison Lake, using a boat tow to get up to altitude. I found the towing experience quite exciting. One minute you stand on the beach of a beautiful lake surrounded by high wooded mountain ridges. Less than 10 minutes later you are 1000 meters up in the air; see the snow-covered peaks all around and the tow boat and landing beach are very tiny far below.
I was almost sorry that I couldn’t take in the stunning scenery any longer, but this was the point when the real adventure started! Tom came in over the radio and gave commands for the maneuvers. Starting of with a few wing-overs, then a nice spiral and on the second flight search for stall and spin, another baby spiral and a few other tricks. Even with one less flight than originally planned and a tow in the dark back to Harrison Hotsprings (we ran out of gas in the middle of the lake) - this was an excellent day!
Alex executing a Full Stall
