INTRODUCTION:
La Salina is known worldwide as Baja’s best Airsport venue. Launch from the 700’ ridge, located ½ mile east of Pacific Ocean. Soar for hours, climbing to 3000 ft+ in desert thermals, then land on big/beautiful sandy beach, OR XC… into Baja’s world class wine country. This year, fly several different flying coastal sites including (Cantamar Dunes (and ridge), Halfway House, La Fonda, La Salina, and Salsipuedes) Wednesday is site intro day. XC and flying events begin Thursday. Full moon flight is Friday night night.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFis–D_Bvk
Then SATURDAY MORNING 4/23 is the first INTERNATIONAL AEROTHLON COMPETITION! Individuals and Teams will compete in a Run, Fly, and Biking event over a total course of @ 30 kilometers. (see more info below)https://vimeo.com/149466137
Event sponsored by TEAM FlyLaSalina.com; Aerothlon Int’l; Alximia Vineyard ; ProTurismo de Ensenada; GobBC Turismo de Baja CA MX; Secretariat De Turismo Baja CA, RedBull Intl, Ejido La Mision; ; and BajaBrent (who handles accommodations at his beachfront B & B complete with beachfront astro-turfed LZ). More details at www.FlyLaSalina.wordpress.com ; www.FlyLaSalina.com or www.BajaBrent.com contact bajabrent@msn.com or call 760-203-2658 or 01152-646-155-8194 (Baja landline).
I. FOR THE PUBLIC: (pilots skp to II below)
The 10th annual Fiesta Del Cielo Luna Llena will begin Wednesday April 20-Monday April 25 Most pilots will be at the site during Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, where you can come and enjoy the beautiful spectacle of a ultralight air show.
NEW for 2016, will be the First International AEROTHLON featuring individual and teams competing in a Run, Fly, and Bike competition (similar to a triathalon) over a 30 KM course, beginning and ending at Playa de La Salina (Km 73 off toll road). (See below for more information or go to Pablo @ aerothlon.com
To locate La Salina flightpark, take the TJ/Ensenada toll road to the La Salina exit (KM 73). At bottom of the ramp GO EAST toward the ridge and follow the signs. Pls park in the parking lot located just off the service road. PLS DO NOT drive into and/or park in the LANDING ZONE (LZ), The LZ has a large windsock, so if you are there, you need to return to the service road, and drive north another 200 meters and you will locate the parking lot.
For non-pilots and observers, tandem flights will be available from some of Southern CA and Mexico’s most experienced trained professionals in paragliding, PPG and ultralight aircraft. If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring like a hawk, raven, eagle, REACH FOR THE SKY…YOUR TIME HAS COME!!!! You can call BajaBrent at #’s listed here to reserve a flight or come to the flightpark and ask directions. If no one is in the LZ, look up at the top of the ridge and locate the astro-turf launch. If someone is there, try calling the cell #.
There are two basic methods to enjoy a tandem flight (where an experienced pilot flies the aircraft with a patron). One method is via a motorized paraglider (PPG) or motorized trike (fixed delta wing). Both of these aircraft can launch and land right from the beach, La Salina being one of those beaches this is often done. This type of flight is flown primarily along the beaches from La Salina to La Fonda; lasts on average 10-15 minutes at a cost of $50-$60. No experience is required. Warm clothing generally is advised.
The second method is “free-fly” with a experienced paraglider pilot from La Salina flying ridge. This type of flight requires no motor. You foot launch from the astro-turf spot up on top of the ridge east of the toll road. These flights generally rely upon the weather, sea breeze, and thermal conditions which impact the length of the flight. These flights require 1-2 hours of traveling to launch, preparing for launch, basic flight instruction, etc. The flight generally lasts 20-40 minutes depending on condtions. ( free flight tandems run @ $130-$140)
For more general information about flying in La Salina, pls visit www.FlyLASALINA.com and/or feel free to contact BajaBrent @ US # 760-203-2658; Baja land line 646-124-5820; or Baja Moviestar cell 646-124-5820. or email direct bajabrent@msn.com
II. FOR PILOTS
THE EVENT
The Fiesta begins Wednesday, April 20 and extends until Monday April 25, 2015. This provides up to 6 days and 5 nights at the venue. You are welcome to come in earlier or stay a day or two later.The main days of the event will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The AEROTHLON will be held Saturday morning starting at 8:00 AM. (see more Aerothlon info below).
This year, we are considering flying up to several different coastal sites (weather permitting): Cantamar/Halfway House; La Fonda; La Salina; Salsipuedes;. The final decision will be made each morning depending on forecasts, weather, and willingness of the participants.Here is a little background:
Cantamar-Halfway House, dates back to before La Salina, and was a popular HG site in the 70′s and 80′s. Over the last couple years, pilots have had difficulty accessing this site, due to the guards refusal to allow entry. This year, BajaBrent has spoken with owners and has gotten a tentative verbal commitment, assuming waivers are signed and there is insurance. However, it is still unclear if this will suffice. This year, conditions permitting, we may make this the primary XC run, beginning here and attempting to fly to La Salina, Salsipuedes, and onto Ensenada for @ 50KM. It can be done.
Salsipuedes , is our dream flying site: its beauty, ease of access and bouyant air are just so darn fun, you never wanna land! Last year several pilots enjoyed flying from a local coastal vineyard site, due to a road collapse on the main highway. This year we will determine which ever works best.
AGENDA
TheFly-in will begin Wednesday morning a site intro day, for some, and most likely a fun flying day at La Salina. You can come in Tuesday night and be ready to fly Wednesday morning.
AEROTHLON: The Aerothlon is a triathlon style event that is the brain child of Pablo. Began in 2013, this event has been conducted in numerous countries in Latin America. The Run, Fly, Bike covers a course of @ 30 kilometers, beginning and ending at La Salina Beach next to BajaBrent’s Bed and Breakfast and the Cantina. The run is @ 5-6 Kms beginning at the beach, then up the ridge and onto launch. Competitors will then launch their gliders and fly a 10 km distance, and (hopefully) land at the beach. Then they will transition to mountain bike for a 15 KM ride.
There will be several classes of competition 1) individuals who can compete in all 3 consecutive legs; 2) runners/cyclist who are not pilots can retain a TANDEM pilot and fly as the co-pilot for the flying leg; 3) Relay teams made up of a runner, a pilot, and a cyclist. There will either be male teams, or mixed teams (male/female, transgender (just in case Catlyn Jenner wants in). So far there has been tentative cash/prizes raised in excess of $8000, the details of which will be announced very soon.
The entry fee for the Aerothlon approximates $100 (although not yet finalized).
The Aerothlon is considered to be FIRST a FUN albeit challenging event. Of course we know competitions, especially with prize $$ will bring out the serious side as well. But in the end, FUN and SAFETY, will be the # 1 goal.
FULL MOON FLIGHT(S): The full moon is technically on Saturday (4/23) evening. Thus we want to fly it either Friday or Saturday night. The night BEFORE the scientifically defined full moon, is actually better for photo ops. The moon looks just as full and rises an hour before the sun sets. IF that doesn’t work, then Saturday evening IT IS!!!! And for the die-hards, even Sunday and/or Monday nights will work, as long as you know how to setup after dark AND you can avoid catabatic conditions?!?! And we have plenty of stories about nights like those s! BTW Although the full moon provides plenty of illuminationyou should bring headlamps, etc. is rare anyone soars much either, its generally a sledder, and one pilot in the air at a time!
XC: LA SALINA- ALXIMIA VINYARD: For the SIXTH year in a row, one of this year’s sponsors is INTERNATIONAL AWARD WINNING: Alximia Vinyard in Valle de Guadalupe wine country! ALXIMIA is owned by Team FlyLaSalina.com pilot Alvaro Alvarez (aka WineStein). For several years now, WineStein has taughted us to fly from the coast to Alximia, the first to accomplish this would receive the coveted magnum of Alximia’s “Pyra” wine , a fantastic Barbera grape, and a favorite of Bajabrent. We will discuss the location and flight plan with those attending the event. John Pitt, who has probably flown more into wine country from La Salina, will conduct a lecture for all those interested on Wednesday evening.
XC: CANTAMAR—ENSENADA: This has YET to be performed, and BajaBrent really has no excuse! But alas all the segments have been done before. Phil Russman connected the dots with 2 segments in 2011. Those of you familiar with Russman’s style will know to avoid “Phil’s Hole”! This trip covers @ 50 Kms along the toll-road and ridge line, featuring several challenging “gaps” to cross.
FLY-IN PACKAGES
FLY-IN RATES & PACKAGES: Fly-in registration/venue access fee(s): $9.95/day; $19.95 = 3 day pass; or $29.95 for entire event. TANDEMS NOW HAVE DIFFERENT RATES, BE SURE TO TALK TO BAJABRENT BEFORE LAUNCHING ANY TANDEM PASSENGERS!
Accommodations: (BajBrent’s Beachfront Bed and Breakfast, and other beach places); BB has an awesome 3 BR 1/1/2 bath Bungalow steps down the beach from the main house, and his BAJA BULLETT Airstream trailer, has now been renovated for more rustic beach fun ( 3 bunks plus bath).
BajaBrent’s Beachfront Bed and Breakfast (The B-4), is northern Baja’s oldest Bed and Breakfast (est’d 1997). Located on the La Salina beach directly across from the La Salina Flying ridge, the B-4 offers thequickest and most convenient access to the flightpark.
The mainhouse UNDERWENT MAJOR RENOVATIONS IN EVERY GUESTROOM in 2015! No more skanky paneling or essence of mildow…all replaced, new bedding etc. The main house is enjoyed by all guests,huge beachfront patio; ASTRO TURFED LZ on beach terrace; pool table, large HD satellite TV featuring a plethora of paragliding/flying movies; guest refrigerators…YOU ARE ON THE BEACH, (not “near”, or steps away—YOU ARE ON LA SALINA BEACH)!!! If you can’t launch from the ridge, and make it to my house, I’ll have to tear up your P-2 card! HA!
The B-4 features 5 guestrooms, with 15 beds. If you want private accommodations, pls email BajaBrent directly, otherwise ”Hostel” style arrangements incur the following pricing (rates include taxes):
1 night stands: $39/person (check-in after 2:00PM; check out noon);
2 nights: $75/pp;
3 nights: $100/pp;
4+ nights add $25/night/person
Rates include prepared breakfast (Friday, Sat, Sun mornings); self-serve breakfast (breads/cereal, fruit, coffee, OJ) other mornings.
Sleeping arrangements will be provided on first come/first serve basis.
Bajabrent has also reserved the La Salina Hotel/Cantina rooms for those of you who would prefer your own bed with private bath. The 3 night package runs $199 for a private room (double occupancy) ; You can also book a room with two beds/bath for up to 4 pilots for $299 for 3 nights.
Groups of 5 or more qualify for GROUP RATE, contact BajaBrent for more info….
Anyone bringing a non-participatory guest (e.g. significant other sharing your pillow) needs to check with us on special rates accordingly.
CAMPING:There is a campground 4 miles north but your safety and the protection of your personal belongings, is entirely YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. It also costs $10-$15/night. So if saving $10-$15/night is worth your risk, then RISK AND REWARD!
In Addition, IF you want a private home, condo, or room, BajaBrent can HOOK YOU UP! JUST email bajabrent@msn.com
Last but not least… the host, Bajabrent is also the most experienced La Salina paragliding pilot who is enjoying his 21st flying season in La Salina. With over 1200 hours of airtime at the site! His insight/advice are obviously, very helpful. In fact, site intro fees are usually assessed to non-booking pilot/tour groups. This is likewise included at no extra charge.
SIDEBAR
Wednesday night (20th) is the Cantina features all you can eat spaghetti FOR FREE!!! (with purchase of alcoholic beverage beer: $3).
Bajabrent and Flipper also plan on a bratwurst BBQ on Saturday or Sunday night TBA. Generally this is a $10 all you can eat affair. More later.
THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:TEAM www.FLYLASALINA.com Aerothlon Int’l; Alximia Vineyard ; ProTurismo de Ensenada; GobBC Turismo de Baja CA MX; Secretariat De Turismo Baja CA, RedBull Intl, Ejido La Mision; ; and BajaBrent.com
Fly La Salina AirSports 