Why flying is like climbing...

[pdb]

After last year's dismal weather in Alaska, 33 days of straight rain, and then more days of fog and low ceilings, I can not tell you how much I am looking forward to a normal and glorious Alaska summer as well as the roaring roaring spring mountain thermals in the Chugach and Talkeetnas starting in April and May. (When I am not in the 170, I am flying gliders.)

As bad as the weather was last year, the number of fatal flying accidents was worse. Many of those who have been here a while had friends die last year, I knew three.

The following was written by Edward Whymper in his book, Scrambles Amongst the Alps. In 1865, he was first man to climb the Matterhorn on which trip four of eight men died. He wrote about climbing. We should read this about flying.


"Still the last sad memory hovers round and sometimes drifts across like a floating mist, cutting off the sunshine, and chilling the remembrances of happier times. There have been joys too great to be described in words and there have been griefs upon which I have not dared to dwell.

And with these in mind I say, climb if you will but remember that courage and strength is nought without prudence and that a momentary negligence may destroy the happiness of a lifetime. Do nothing in haste, look well to each step, and from the beginning think what may be the end."


Edward Whymper
Scrambles Amongst the Alps 1871

[jrenwick]

That was beautiful. Thank you, Pete.

[GAHorn]

Good words, Thanks, Pete!

[rhymes]

Whether 1865 or 2065, it is the same... .
My love of soaring in hang gliders has seen two friends gone; but there have been some indelible flying experiences...
without great risk there cannot be great reward.
Thanks for that one, Pete.