Cloudbase Mayhem Podcast

Gavin McClurg
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Cloudbase Mayhem Podcast

The Cloudbase Mayhem podcast is where you will find fascinating and educational interviews with the best free-flight pilots in the world. If you fly a hanglider or paraglider, if you fly acro or cross country, the Cloudbase Mayhem podcast is where we glean how the great pilots of the world get there. Hosted by Red Bull X-Alps pilot, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and current holder of the North American foot launch record, Gavin McClurg. Follow me on Instagram @gavinmcclurg or on Facebook @ facebook.com/gavinnmcclurg or Twitter on @cloudbasemayhem.

  1. 1 NOV

    #232 An Impossible Story of Survival with Ben Lewis

    This is one of the craziest flying and remarkable survival stories you’ll ever hear. In this conversation, Canadian pilot and doctor Ben Lewis recounts his harrowing experience during a major cloudsuck incident while paragliding in Bir, India. He shares his background as a pilot, the intimidating nature of mountain flying, and the factors that are contributing to the carnage occurring this season in the Himalayas. Ben details the day of his incident while attempting to beat his personal best, describing the weather conditions; his decision-making process; and then the total loss of control as his flight instrument recorded a vertical ascent of 23 M/S in a hail storm that took him to over 7300 meters (over 24,000′)! Shortly before passing out from the negative G forces and exhausted from trying to control his wing Ben resigned himself to death. But fate had other plans for Ben. Eventually the cloud spit him out and Ben plummeted unconscious to the ground at 15-18 meters per second. He didn’t regain consciousness until he found himself hanging from a tree only a meter from the ground, alive but mostly blind and severely injured. After the dramatic cascade Ben details the challenges of self-rescue, the many mistakes of the day, and the emotional toll of the experience. Ben reflects on the lessons learned about risk management in adventure sports and the importance of community support during a crisis. His story serves as a cautionary tale for fellow adventurers, emphasizing the need for preparedness and awareness in the face of nature’s unpredictability. Buckle up, this one will blow your mind. TakeawaysBen Lewis has been flying since 2009 and is a family doctor in the Yukon, Canada.The CloudSuck incident was part of a larger pattern of accidents in the area.Many pilots, including experienced ones, were caught off guard by sudden weather changes.Ben felt a false sense of security flying under seemingly benign clouds.The day of the incident, Ben aimed to break his personal distance record.Communication with fellow pilots was limited during the flight.Ben experienced extreme turbulence and loss of control in the clouds.He passed out at high altitude due to negative G-forces.The injuries sustained were a result of both the flight and the landing.Ben’s experience highlights the importance of weather awareness and decision-making in paragliding. Ben was incredibly lucky to survive the fall.His injuries included a broken neck and eye damage.Self-rescue in the Himalayas is challenging and risky.Community support played a crucial role in his recovery.He plans to continue flying despite the incident.The experience taught him valuable lessons about risk management.He felt a deep sense of responsibility towards his family.Ben’s vision issues were a significant concern post-accident.He acknowledges the importance of proper equipment for safety.Social media response was largely supportive and positive.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the CloudSuck Incident06:04 The Intimidation of Mountain Flying11:46 The Day of the Incident: Setting the Scene18:01 The Moment of Panic and Loss of Control23:54 Reflections on the Experience29:38 Surviving the Fall: A Paraglider’s Tale36:54 Self-Rescue in the Himalayas46:00 Lessons Learned: A Cautionary Experience

    1 h y 8 min

  2. 17 OCT

    #231 Chasing Excellence with Evan Bouchier

    In this conversation, American pilot and Adventurer Evan Bouchier shares his journey from extreme kayaking to paragliding, detailing his experiences and breakthroughs in the sport. He discusses the transition from intense paddling to flying, the importance of tandem flying in skill development, and the ups and downs of competition flying. Evan emphasizes the significance of flow, intuition, and visualization in enhancing performance, while also reflecting on the parallels between kayaking and paragliding. Evan shares his experiences and insights on paragliding, focusing on the mental aspects of flying, the importance of acro training for safety and mastery, and his future aspirations in cross-country flying. He discusses the challenges of performance lulls, the thrill of skiing compared to paragliding, and reflects on close calls in his flying career, emphasizing the need for resilience and mental fortitude in the sport.Takeaways* Evan started paragliding in 2008 after a background in kayaking. * His experiences in Nepal were pivotal for his flying skills. * Tandem flying helped him become a more well-rounded pilot. * He emphasizes the importance of flow and intuition in flying. * Evan’s journey includes both breakthroughs and setbacks in competition. * He learned to trust his instincts over overanalyzing his performance. * Visualization techniques have been beneficial for his confidence. * Cross-country paragliding resembles expedition kayaking in many ways. * The camaraderie and learning from other pilots at competitions are invaluable. * Evan’s approach to flying has evolved through various experiences and challenges. Focusing on sensations rather than analysis can enhance performance. * Breathing techniques are crucial for maintaining calm in flight. * Acro training is valuable for mastering non-standard configurations. * Team flying offers unique experiences and camaraderie. * Performance lulls are common; resilience is key to overcoming them. * Skiing brings joy, while paragliding feels more intense and serious. * Building mental armor helps pilots cope with risks. * Experiencing close calls can shatter confidence, requiring rebuilding. * Maintaining a positive attitude is essential during tough times. * The thrill of flying is deeply innate and fulfilling.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Evan’s Journey02:53 The Transition from Kayaking to Paragliding05:55 Experiences in Nepal and Breakthroughs in Flying08:50 The Evolution of Competitive Flying12:03 The Role of Tandem Flying in Skill Development15:12 Navigating the Ups and Downs of Progress17:57 The Importance of Flow and Intuition in Flying23:05 Finding Flow in Flight26:10 The Role of Acro in Safety and Mastery28:24 Future Aspirations in Cross-Country Flying32:06 Navigating Lulls in Performance37:07 Comparing the Thrills of Skiing and Paragliding41:13 Close Calls and Building Resilience

    51 min

  3. 5 OCT

    #230 Hugh Miller and making the Glide to Sailplanes

    In this conversation I speak with Cross Country magazine co-owner and long time editor Hugh Miller about his extensive experience in paragliding and his recent foray into sailplane flying. We discuss the differences between the two sports, the training and costs involved in becoming a sailplane pilot, and the unique experiences that come with cross-country flying. Hugh shares insights on the community and culture within gliding, the innovations in the industry, and reflects on the importance of aerodynamics and the thrill of flying. The conversation highlights the excitement and challenges of both paragliding and gliding, as well as the camaraderie among pilots.Takeaways* Hugh has been obsessed with paragliding for 32 years. * Sailplane training is more involved than paragliding. * The cost of training to fly a sailplane can be significant. * Gliding offers a different experience compared to paragliding. * Cross-country flying in gliders can be exhilarating. * Learning to glide involves understanding complex aerodynamics. * Community in gliding is supportive but more serious than in paragliding. * Innovations in gliding equipment are making the sport safer. * The culture in gliding is influenced by a more disciplined background. * Hugh enjoys the thrill of gliding but appreciates the freedom of paragliding.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sailplane Adventures03:14 Hugh’s Journey in Paragliding and Gliding05:57 The Cost and Training of Sailplane Flying09:04 Differences Between Paragliding and Gliding12:03 Cross Country Flying Experiences15:04 Learning Curve and Insights from Gliding18:03 The Role of Instruments and Visual Cues in Gliding21:06 Community and Culture in Gliding23:48 The Future of Sailplanes and Innovations26:50 Reflections on the Gliding Experience30:03 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

    51 min

  4. 24 SEPT

    #229, The Exit Point Podcast interviews your Host

    Day 35 crossing the Alaska Range approaching the Susitna GlacierWe flip the roles in this episode of the Cloudbase Mayhem. Laurent and Matt, the hosts of the Exit Point Podcast, which is dedicated to Base and Wingsuit Base invited your host Gavin McClurg on their show to discuss the commonalities of risk across extreme sports, flow, navigating intermediate syndrome, how important having mentors are, and a lot more. We rewind the clock back to my ski racing days and how early injuries affected the trajectory of my life; some too-close calls kayaking; and how sailing around the world two times built confidence in my approach to sports that have a lot less margin. Gavin is a four time Red Bull X-Alps athlete, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, author of “Advanced Paragliding“, Patagonia ambassador, founder of “Offshore Odysseys”, and Dad.Gavin McClurg (USA1) seen during the Red Bull X-Alps on Gaisberg, Austria on June 16, 2019 Gavin Mcclurg (USA2) and his support team perform during the Red Bull X-Alps in Peille, France (turn point 10) on 15th July 2015 Gavin Mcclurg (USA1) signs the Kronplatz TP during the 2019 Red Bull X-Alps Window? Assessing our rather bleak options above Chur with Tobias (Team Italy 2). Photo Vitek Ludvik Patagonia ambassador Gavin McClurg flying past Denali during the Alaska paragliding traverse. Alaska Range, Alaska. Gavin McClurg (USA1) prepares for flight during Red Bull X-Alps on Mangart, Slovenia (TP 2) on July 5, 2017. Photo Vitek Ludvig

    1 h y 52 min

  5. 9 SEPT

    #228 Eat, Sleep, Fly 100 km Repeat with Mathew Fiddes

    Heading up and over the Aletch GlacierMathew Fiddes only got into flying a few years ago but has been chasing about as hard as you can. Some early stumbles brought humility and perspective and then last year, for the 23′ XContest season Matt began with the goal of winning the Australian XC league. But as the flights chalked up and he starting climbing up the ranks for pilots who had the most 100 km flights, he thought maybe an even better goal would be to bank 52 100 km flights in a single season- one per week. And with just a few days left in the season, he snagged it. Matt traveled around the world in his quest- to India, Australia, and across the Alps chasing not only his goal but the “Kraken”. We sat down during the Red Rocks Wide Open to discuss his passion, his early accident and the comeback both physically and mentally and his future. Matt has become an exceptional pilot in a very short time and there’s some great stories here to keep you entertained. Enjoy! Oplus_0

    57 min

  6. 21 AGO

    #227 The XPeaks Expedition with Chrigel Maurer and Peter Von Känel

    A little over a year ago professional mountaineering guide Peter Von Känel had an idea to summit all the 4,000 meter peaks in Switzerland by only using his feet and a paraglider. Then he thought, “let’s go a little bigger and do ALL 82 of the 4,000 meter peaks in the Alps!” Peter had the mountaineering skills and was a very accomplished XC pilot back in the late 90’s, but for this rather audacious undertaking he’d need a partner who knew how to move in the mountains and could get his wing skills up to snuff. Enter his good friend and neighbor Chrigel Maurer. A year later Peter and Chrigel embarked on an epic adventure to link all 4000-meter peaks of the Alps with a continuous track. The style was simple- move only by foot or by paraglider, allowing for the possibility of going back home from a village in case of bad weather, but only by using public transport. The project required a combination of expert paragliding and mountaineering skills, and they carried ultra-lightweight gear to travel in an alpine style. They faced challenges with weather conditions but were often able to fly above the clouds and make unexpected moves. The team dynamics were strong, with each member supporting and motivating the other and relied on their “fun” rule- ‘as long as one person was having fun they would carry on’! They had to carefully manage their resources, including food and rest to maintain energy and make good decisions. The project was a mix of fun, adventure, and improvisation, and they unexpectedly successfully completed their mission in just 51 days. In this amazing talk they share their most elegant and memorable (and sometimes scary) moments, including flying above the clouds and landing on remote summits. They also discuss the importance of risk management and embracing uncertainty. Enjoy!

    1 h y 25 min

  7. 13 AGO

    #226 Benni Bölli and the Art of Flaring

    It’s not often you get to be credited for creating a whole new sport! “Flaring” or parakiting is all the rage in some parts of the world and my guest for today’s show Benni Bölli- inventor, designer, and passionate pilot is the head developer for Flare, which makes the Moustache and the Line. “Parakiting” is simply the combination of a kitesurfing wing and a paragliding wing. Dynamic, fast, wicked playful- it takes soaring to a whole new level and makes playing on dunes and cliffs wildly fun again. Benni shares his personal journey in the sport and explains how the Flare system works, including the use of the accelerator and the dynamic nature of the wing, and the advantages and potential risks of flying with the Flare wing. Benni emphasizes the importance of understanding the system and taking proper precautions. Bennie explores the differences between parakites and traditional paragliders, including the use of a flare system and the ability to maintain lift in low wind conditions. And he explains the mechanics of flaring and how it affects the angle of attack and glide path of the wing. We also discuss the potential future of parakites in the paragliding community and the importance of caution and proper training when flying with parakites.Photo Hermann Erber Photo Hermann Erber Photo Hermann Erber Photo Hermann ErberTakeaways* The Flare wing combines elements of paragliding and kitesurfing, offering a dynamic and playful flying experience. * The Flare system allows for increased control and versatility, with the ability to change the angle of attack and fly at different speeds. * Proper understanding of the Flare system and wing design is crucial for safe and enjoyable flying. * Ground handling and familiarizing oneself with the wing’s behavior are important steps before flying with the Flare wing. Flaring is a unique sport that involves using parakites for soaring. * Parakites have a flare system that allows pilots to change the angle of attack and maintain lift in low wind conditions. * Flaring involves adjusting the angle between the leading edge and trailing edge of the wing to control the glide path. * Parakites are more efficient for soaring than traditional paragliders, but may not be as suitable for long-distance cross-country flights. * Proper training and caution are essential when flying with parakites to avoid accidents.Titles* The Concept and Design of the Flare Wing * The Flare System: Control and Versatility Understanding the Mechanics of Flaring * The Benefits of Using Parakites for SoaringSound Bites* “Yeah, why mustache?” * “All the best companies are starting from a joke.” * “So I would say it’s very dynamic.” * “Flying gliders is just so much more efficient than going with a paraglider on cross-country flights.” * “The mustache is made to basically stay up. So your arm position where you fly for your best glide ratio, I would say, is totally different than on the line.” * “The Dutch flying community, they are unique in this.”Chapters00:00Introduction and Background05:56Benni’s Journey and Role in Flare Kiteboarding10:59The Concept and Design of the Flare Wing18:39The Flare System: Control and Versatility2...

    58 min

  8. 31 JUL

    #225 AMA with Malin Lobb- C Class 2 Liners, First bivvy in the Alps, When are you expedition Ready?

    Time for another Ask Me Anything show! In this episode we tackle three questions that came in from our Patreon supporters. The first was to go deep on the new class of C wing 2-Liners. To answer this I sat down (virtually) with SIV guru Malin Lobb, who sees these wings in all kinds of configurations in his SIV courses. How do you know you’re ready for a 2-liner? Any downsides? How do they behave differently than a 3-liner and what do pilots stepping up for the first time need to be aware of? And a lot more great advice on piloting in general. Then I take on a question that came in about doing a bivvy in the Alps for the first time. Where to go, what time of year, how to connect with other pilots. It’s a big arena and can be daunting for your first trip! And finally I tackle a great question about assessing when you’re ready to take on something big. A new line, a bivvy, an expedition. When are you ready? Never! So go!

    36 min
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The Cloudbase Mayhem podcast is where you will find fascinating and educational interviews with the best free-flight pilots in the world. If you fly a hanglider or paraglider, if you fly acro or cross country, the Cloudbase Mayhem podcast is where we glean how the great pilots of the world get there. Hosted by Red Bull X-Alps pilot, National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and current holder of the North American foot launch record, Gavin McClurg. Follow me on Instagram @gavinmcclurg or on Facebook @ facebook.com/gavinnmcclurg or Twitter on @cloudbasemayhem.

Información

  • Creador
    Gavin McClurg
  • Años de actividad
    2015 - 2024
  • Episodios
    232
  • Clasificación
    Explícito
  • Copyright
    © Cloudbase Mayhem
  • Mostrar sitio web
    Cloudbase Mayhem Podcast

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