Ep. 009 Chamonix: A Speed Flyer's Paradise with George Barnes

In this episode, George Barnes shares his experiences and insights into the world of speed flying, particularly in Chamonix, France. He discusses the challenges and regulations surrounding the sport, the risks involved, and the accessibility of speed flying in France compared to other countries. George also highlights the importance of helicopter rescue services in the region and reflects on his personal journey in speed flying, including his progression and the evolution of his skills. The conversation provides a comprehensive look at the thrill and dangers of speed flying, as well as the community and culture surrounding this extreme sport. In this conversation, George Barnes discusses the exhilarating world of speed flying and speed riding, highlighting the differences between the two sports, the evolution of wing technology, and the importance of safety and community. He shares his personal experiences with foot launching, the thrill of exploring new lines, and the mindset required for extreme sports. The conversation also touches on the future of speed flying, the challenges of gaining acceptance in the sports community, and the potential for tandem speed flying.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to George Barnes and Extreme Sports

02:00 Speed Flying in Chamonix: Regulations and Challenges

05:53 The Dangers of Mont Blanc and Rescue Services

09:42 Speed Riding: Accessibility and Insurance in France

13:47 The Thrill of Speed Riding: Techniques and Experiences

17:45 Summer Speed Flying: Locations and Conditions

21:46 Safety Equipment: Reserves and Harnesses in Speed Riding

25:55 The Safety Debate in Speed Riding

26:56 Cultural Background and Language Skills

28:16 Early Beginnings in Skiing and Speed Flying

29:39 The Evolution of Speed Flying Skills

30:33 The Journey to First Flight

32:12 Progression and Learning in Speed Riding

34:27 Wing Choices and Their Impact

35:55 The Importance of Wing Responsiveness

39:06 Understanding Wing Loading and Performance

40:45 Speed Riding vs. Speed Flying: A Comparison

42:56 The Thrill of Exploration in Speed Flying

44:50 The Mindset of an Extreme Sport Enthusiast

49:11 The Future of Speed Riding

50:36 The Journey to Base Jumping

54:30 The Risks and Regulations of Speed Flying

59:27 The Evolution of Speed Flying Technology

01:04:17 Understanding the Pixel Wing

01:14:02 Conclusion and Future of Speed Flying