Gliders and Sailplanes Chapter 1 Introduction Welcome to the world of soaring. Whether it has been a  lifelong dream or a new interest, the pleasure of flying is  truly addictive and exhilarating. The intellectual challenge  combined with the quiet and beauty of flying high above the  earth are two of the many reasons that people both young and  old get hooked on flying gliders. If contemplating learning  more about the sport, an introductory flight absolutely helps  make the decision. Soaring gracefully through the air, along  with the meditative silence that surrounds you, is refreshing  and exciting. Organizations such as the Soaring Society of  America (SSA) have developed excellent programs not only  to track a pilot’s learning progression, but also issue badges  for flight and knowledge accomplishments. Glider clubs are  located all over the country and offer great flight training  schools and pilot camaraderie.