Aspeq Sponsors Success at YGNZ Camp

In a testament to the collaborative spirit of New Zealand's aviation community, the 2024 Youth Glide New Zealand (YGNZ) camp welcomed young glider pilots for an intensive 10-day training program, supported by Aspeq's sponsorship. The camp, established in 2010 by Roger Read in the picturesque town of Omarama, has become a flagship event in the gliding community.

Aspeq's commitment to fostering the skills and enthusiasm of the next generation of aviators is reflected in the sponsorship, which includes two prizes aimed at recognising outstanding achievements. These prizes not only acknowledge the recipients' accomplishments but also contribute to their ongoing growth in the field of aviation.

The two Aspeq scholarship winners, Felix Harper and Sondre Langvik-Owen, embody the dedication and ambition characteristic of the YGNZ camp participants.

Felix (pictured left), a second-year student at Canterbury University studying physics, aspires to become a Meteorologist and is actively working towards obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (Glider).

Sondre Langvik-Owen (pictured right), a prospective engineering student at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) with aspirations of becoming a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME) and obtaining a Commercial Pilot License (Glider).

"I am sure the two recipients will prove worthy ambassadors for Aspeq as they work towards gaining their license qualifications," said Roger.

During the camp, the 15 participating students collectively completed an impressive 188 flights, utilising the powerful Skylaunch winch to soar over 2000 feet above ground level. Notably, many students achieved soaring in mountain lee wave conditions, reaching altitudes exceeding 10,000 feet, a feat requiring the added experience of using supplemental oxygen.

The success of the 2024 YGNZ camp, coupled with Aspeq's sponsorship, underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in nurturing the future of gliding in New Zealand.

Aspeq's ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that inspire and empower young aviators is important to secure a vibrant and dynamic future for the aviation community in New Zealand and look forward to following the bright future of these young gliders.