11 Jan 2017 Wangaratta Chronicle, Wangaratta VIC (General News) by Cam Potter THE next two weeks will see the worlds best glider pilots battle it out in the 34th FAI World Gliding Championships in Benalla. This is the second time Australia has hosted, with the first time 30 years ago also at Benalla Aerodrome. Jaclyn Symes (MLC, Northern Victoria) officially opened the event on Monday with the event set to feature 116 competitors from 27 countries in the open, 18 metre and 15 metre glider disciplines. Male and female pilots will complete courses around the North East and put their aerobatic, distance and stick speed skills to the test. Over 15,000 are expected to attend the event over the fortnight, with over 500 support staff and 150 officials helping run the championships. Ms Symes, a Benalla local, said hosting the World Gliding Championships was an honour. I grew up in Benalla the gliding capital of Australia, it was an honour to be part of bringing this event to my home town again after 30 years, Ms Symes said. During the next two weeks, people will be thrilled by exhilarating races and aerobatics across our skies with the worlds best gliders in town. I wish all participants safe gliding as they take in the spectacular scenery of Benalla and the North East. Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.