#215 CRUSHING with the US Women’s Team

Something pretty special is happening right now in the US when it comes to competitions. This is of course subjective, but in my opinion we have the most dynamic, fun, inclusive comp scene in the world. And it is being led by our women. Our US National Champion this year is Galen Kirkpatrick, who was on the previous show and been lodging some incredible results- 1st, Red Rocks Wide Open (overall), 3rd Chelan (overall), 3rd Monarca (overall); Alexia Fischer is the top ranked PILOT in the WPRS in the United States and just came away with two top ten results overall at the British and Pre PWC in Colombia last month; Violeta Jimenez is currently ranked 3rd in the NTSS (US overall ranking) and is a shoe-in for the podium regardless of the race; and Jenny Oneil has only been in the game a few years and is already competing along with these incredible ladies right now at the Superfinal in Brazil. At the Monarca in January Galen, Violeta and Alexia were all in the top 10- OVERALL. In this conversation, Gavin McClurg talks to our leading US Women’s team members about how they have created this new paradigm. They discuss their backgrounds, breakthrough moments, advice for those interested in competitions, and the formation and goals of the team. The conversation highlights the importance of inclusivity and visibility in paragliding, as well as the progress and achievements of women in the sport. We discuss their future plans and goals for women’s paragliding, and share their experiences of overcoming setbacks and challenges. They also reflect on their personal journeys and triumphs, and express their excitement for the upcoming Super Final. This episode is a blast- enjoy!Takeaways* Competitions are a great way to learn and improve in paragliding. Even if you’re not ready to win, participating in competitions allows you to fly with experienced pilots and receive immediate feedback on your performance.

* Focus on performance rather than results. Concentrate on improving your skills, such as climbing and gliding, and the results will follow.

* The women’s paragliding team aims to capitalize on the current momentum and make their success the norm rather than the exception. They work together to discuss strategies, analyze tasks, and support each other in competitions.

* The women’s team emphasizes the importance of mentorship and learning from experienced pilots. They encourage aspiring competitors to seek guidance and advice from coaches and more experienced pilots in order to accelerate their learning and progression. Inclusivity and visibility are crucial for encouraging more women to participate in paragliding.

* Having role models and a supportive community can inspire and motivate women to pursue their goals in the sport.

* The progress and achievements of women in paragliding are changing the perception of what is possible for female pilots.

* It is important to create opportunities and support systems for women in paragliding to ensure their continued success and growth.Chapters00:00Introductions and Backgrounds19:44Breakthrough Moments29:28Advice for Those Interested in Competitions36:55The Women’s Team37:45Importance of Inclusivity and Visibility39:00Inspiration and Support for Women in Paragliding40:27Progress and Achievements of Women in the Sport44:38Future Plans and Goals for Women’s Paragliding50:17Balancing Passion and Burnout in Competitive Paragliding57:50Overcoming Setbacks and Challenges01:06:37Personal Journeys and Triumphs01:09:22Looking Ahead to the Super Final