Gliding is not yet an Olympic sport but there is plenty for enthusiasts of all levels to look forward to in this Olympic Year, 2012, even if the temporary London area no-fly zones will affect some British glider pilots during their short summer season!

A new FAI Sailplane Grand Prix series begins with qualifying events in Romania, from 29th April, South Africa, September 28th, Australia in November and Chile in December, offering a great variety of conditions and scenery across the world to challenge the best of the best pilots in competition today.

In July, Uvalde, Texas, USA, will once again, after an interval of 21 years, welcome the World Gliding Championships, this time in 15m, 18m and Open classes, in its very own Western style. Tumbleweed, thorn trees, sandstorms and Texan hospitality combined with outstanding conditions are sure to provide some memorable racing which supporters at home will be able to follow via real time links. The time difference between Texas and mainland Europe is 7 hours so expect some late nights as the competition hots up.

The World, Club and Standard classes will be contesting their Worlds in early 2013, due to the opposite hemisphere seasons, at the site of the 3rd FAI South American Gliding Championship, in Argentina, starting on Sunday.