... and thirdly

It finally worked out. The third attempt was a success. After COVID-19 had thrown a wrench in our plans twice, we were finally able to hold our gathering after all. As if that “COVID luck” weren’t enough, the weather gods were also on our side, and on September 25, we even had great weather.

A small patch of fog early in the morning quickly dissipated, and the event—which had been superbly organized by a perfectly coordinated organizing committee and team of volunteers—got underway under sunny skies.

36 pilots from France, Italy, Germany, and, of course, Switzerland once again enriched the event with countless beautiful vintage gliders.

Our “Air Bosse” (flight controllers) Michael Zentriegen (left) and Nico Ritter (right), along with assistant Jonas Hausheer (center), also had their hands full and ensured safe and smooth air traffic all day long, despite the heavy traffic.

Despite the sunny day, proper thermals never really materialized, which is why most pilots soon had to begin their approach for landing. Few thermals automatically lead to more takeoffs and landings, so our three tireless tow pilots—Hugo Christen, Peter Schupfisser, and Andy Wespi—performed countless tows.

More photos on the next spread →

Some members of the organizing committee and the volunteer team pose in front of the beautifully restored original Ae.C.S. Zögling HB-429, built in 1944, which was displayed on our airfield grounds by Thomas Fessler (Gliding History Foundation) and Res Stutzer.

Of course, there was no shortage of entertainment and culinary delights either:

The Lazy River Jazzman jazz band.

A skillful helicopter show performance by Reto Marbach.

Fascinating guests, many interesting conversations, and a lively exchange of experiences knew no boundaries, no gender issues, and no regional divides:

Bela Mayer preparing for the premiere.

AeCS Secretary General Yves Burkhardt.

The pilots in attendance had obviously come to Müswangen for more than just an exchange of ideas, so a line would form at the launch site from time to time; however, the tow team handled it efficiently and professionally each time. As a result, each of the 36 pilots in attendance was able to complete plenty of successful flights.

A top-notch kitchen team led by Werner (Glänzi) and Hirlanda Glanzmann.

"The Frenchman" – Bruno Derand.

Oliver Thede (Germany) traveled 1,020 km to get here!

Peter Schuppisser, Peter Bleisch—focused on hauling.

Ruedi Gegenschatz (left) as the “aircraft carrier” in action clearing the runway.

Multiculturalism: Germany and Valais—they get along just fine...

It was yet another successful event organized by MV Müswangen under the leadership of Markus Frey, his organizing committee, and numerous volunteers, all of whom deserve a big thank you.

And as the last guests made their way home or back to their RVs, the moon was already back in the sky, lighting the way home for our visitors.