Professional pilots compete in extreme paragliding races across the U.S

Paragliding enthusiasts are currently competing in the Rat Race, which serves as the US National Paragliding Championship, spanning seven days. Approximately 200 pilots are participating, facing challenging courses set by weather conditions. Competitors employ skilled navigation using GPS coordinates to complete courses from 40 to 70 miles long, with scores based on finishing times. Each day, race routes are determined by factors like wind patterns and temperature, demanding strategic decision-making from pilots. The competition tests both physical and mental endurance as pilots launch from hillsides and navigate natural air currents over vast landscapes.

• 2:58 PMYahoo Sports — The paraglider pilots racing across the sky without engines