The Bill Moyes Flight of the Year Award

In memory of Bill Moyes, founder of Moyes Gliders, we're proud to honour the most inspiring hang gliding stories from around the world. Whether it’s a flight that left you in awe, brought a deep sense of accomplishment, or created an unforgettable moment — we want to hear your story.

Congratulations to our August winner, Grant Crossingham from the UK!

After the intensity of the World Championships in Àger, the British and Italian teams weren’t done yet. Their next challenge awaited in Monte Cucco, Italy, where both nations held their National Championships. It was Task 4 that proved to be the turning point for Grant — the day he soared ahead of the field, outflew the Italians on their home turf, and secured the crucial points that would lead him to his 10th British title.

Here is his story:

Flying to Victory on the RX 3.5 Pro – A Memorable Task at Monte Cucco

Task 4 of the Italian and British Nationals at Monte Cucco was one of those flights you remember for a lifetime — a day that reminded me how much the right glider, and the right decisions, can make all the difference.

It was a typically stable morning at Monte Cucco North launch. I didn’t leave early, spending some time navigating the busy launch line, but once in the air, I began climbing steadily through the pack and soon found myself comfortably on top of the gaggle.

Flying my new Moyes RX 3.5 Pro, I had that extra edge in climb and glide that I’ve been enjoying all season. Starting the race from the top of the stack, I joined a small leading group — Francesco on another RX 3.5 Pro, Marco on his Laminar, and a couple of rigid wings. We quickly opened a gap of several kilometers, leaving the main gaggle behind, and pushed the course efficiently, always staying one thermal ahead. For much of the task, we stayed just above the mountain tops, making the most of every climb.

The decisive moment came on the return leg toward take-off. To reach the final two turnpoints in the southern valley, we had to climb back over the Monte Cucco ridge. Many pilots didn’t make it, landing out at the base of the hill. Thankfully, Francesco, Tim King on his rigid wing, and I found the lift we needed to top out. After splitting from Francesco, I stayed patient, carefully working the lift until my final glide numbers were perfect — a decision that allowed me to reach the last turnpoints and head straight to goal without another climb.

Crossing the line, I realized I was the first — and only — pilot in goal. Tim arrived shortly after, while Francesco fell just short. It wasn’t about dramatic cloudbase climbs or sweeping scenic views that day; it was a flight of precision, patience, and performance. My RX 3.5 Pro gave me the confidence and handling I needed to stay in control all the way.

The flight put me in first place heading into the final task and ultimately secured my 10th British National Champion title, a victory over the Italians in their own country. Making the moment even more special, my wife and two sons were there supporting me throughout the competition, cheering me on and watching as I was crowned champion.

A huge thanks to Moyes for building a glider that delivers when it matters most — and to my family, whose support made this victory truly unforgettable.

How to Enter:

• Write about your most inspiring flight (minimum 250 words).
• Include photos or videos to bring your story to life.
• Submit via the Dropbox link below:
• https://www.dropbox.com/request/hYqCEArKJSzSjaS2qcYK
• or email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  Note: Your flight must have taken place in this calendar year.

Prizes:

• Monthly winners will receive a $200 voucher and entry into the grand final.
• The grand final winner will get a $1000 voucher and their name engraved on the Bill Moyes Flight of the Year trophy!
• The winners will be chosen by the Moyes family. The monthly winners will be announced in the first week of each month, and the grand final winner will be revealed in January.

We can’t wait to see your stories! Fly high, share your journey, and celebrate the spirit of flight with us!