My fascination with foot-launched flight began in 1972, when I looked up from my surfboard while riding the waves at Stinson Beach, California. Mesmerized by the sight of several standard Rogallo hang gliders in seemingly effortless flight from Mt Tam, I watched them glide silently on the air currents and land gracefully on the beach. Before I could make it to shore, the pilots packed up their gear and were gone! For six months, the concept of free flight captivated my imagination. Then, in February 1973, I began flying a swing seated Standard Rogallo from the sand dunes of Northern California. I hardly believe it’s been over 50 years of flight now.
My early flights were along the California coast, where I soon met others interested in sharing their knowledge and their love of free flight. Over the years, I flew in mountain and coastal conditions, participating in competitions, and became involved with the United States Hang Gliding Association as a Regional Director in the organization’s formative years. I realized that safe flying practices and effective teaching strategies were essential in order for the sport to survive and grow. I had found the arena I was looking for so I started teaching Hang Gliding soon after learning to fly, first part time with a school and hang glider manufacturer, then as a partner in Chandelle Hang Gliding School. In 1999 I opened Merlin Flight School. Even after all these years there is still nothing that compares to the expression of joy, astonishment and accomplishment melded together on a student’s face.
Years passed, and our knowledge and technology grew, matured, and evolved. About 30 years ago the sport of Paragliding was born and has grown by leaps and bounds. It is now much larger than hang gliding ever was with several hundred thousand pilots worldwide flying wings manufactured by over 50 different companies. The easy transport allowing access to exotic places via commercial airlines, and the ability hike to launch with the light modern equipment add to the attraction of free flight.
What makes my school unique is the individualized instruction. I keep my classes small so I am better able to provide personal attention for each student, from introductory lessons to advanced mountain flying instruction. I teach a formal ground school using a comprehensive syllabus I created and refined over many years of experience. By the time a student “graduates” from Merlin Flight School, they have a thorough learning experience that combines the joy, awe and freedom of silent flight with the knowledge and discipline required to fly safely.
Credentials below...
Credentials
Wally Anderson holds the following ratings, awards, business associations, and current paragliding community involvement:
United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding (USHPA) ratings:
- Advanced Rated Paragliding & Hang Gliding Pilot
- Advanced Instructor
- Paragliding Tow Administrator
FAA ratings:
- Certified Private Glider Pilot
USHPA Awards:
- National Paragliding Instructor of the Year 2007
- Rob Kells Award for continuing service and contribution to the flying community
Business Associations:
- Owner, Merlin Flight School
- US Importer, Swing Paragliders
Current Paragliding Community Involvement:
- Mt Tam Paragliding Administrator
