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Paragliding and Private Flying
Several people have asked me about why I've spent a lot of time and money in aviation. I guess the short answer is that its fun. But that’s seriously bad reason to indulge in aviation. Paying $110 dollars an hour to rent a Cessna 152 is an expensive proposition. Add the airspace restrictions (you cant fly at 500 ft AGL) and you'll soon realize that the view from your cockpit is going to be really boring and monotonous. My advice to the brave adventurer is to think twice before you get addicted to flying. Operating an aeroplane is 'cool' at first but isn't after the first ten hours. The right reason to get a PPL is perhaps that you're fascinated by physical and metrological phenomenon such as airflow and wake turbulence. My reasons for loving computer science and aviation are the same, I like controlling "powerful" machines by giving simple instructions that make them do seemingly complicated tasks. Perhaps you appreciate the well behaved nature of modern mechanical marvels. Everyone has their own reason I guess. But all the hassle associated with the months of training and exam preperation simply should not be undertaken because it looks cool . BTW These exams are serious business, unlike your typical driving license examination you better know what you’re doing in these! Click here for a sample Canadian Licensing Exam (Transport Canada).
My experience with paragliding and similar sports like hang-gliding has been much more positive. Not only are they affordable but you can actually store a glider in your basement. Clearly the marginal utility per dollar spent (aka "bang-for-buck") is much higher in free flying. Flying "slow and low", just above the tree line is much more exhilariting than in a cramped 2-seater, high above, with a really loud engine and prop in front. I’ve been paragliding with Air Vision Adventures, a local club of enthusiasts in Woodstock Ontario, (club member shown in the picture) and the “ride” of a paraglider is truly amazing. Im practically always ready for a paragliding trip if anyone’s interested!
Feel free to email me if you are interested in free-flying or general aviation and are unaware of what Southwestern Ontario has to offer. |
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R/C aircraft modeling and flying
Over the past few years I have gone from 2-Channel learners models to 4-Channel aerobatic maneuvering capable radio controlled aircrafts. All of my collection is battery operated and I have so far not had the courage to invest in a nitro/gas powered RC plane. Click here to view pictures of my planes. Over the past few years i've started to enjoy fixing and tweaking broken foam/balsa based planes rather than flying them.
Canoeing/Hiking/Bicycling/Fishing
Being in the natural wonderland that Canada is, I have often taken the oppurtunity to be with the outdoors whenever I can. During the summer, I make it a point to visit as many national parks as I can and also go for ice fishing during the winter. The natural beauty of the surroundings is often inspiring as well as sumblime.
Squash
Not the best but still going strong at the amatuer level. If you'd like to schedule a game, contact me.
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