The countdown has begun... In just a few days, the renowned Montegrappa Trophy, Expo 2010, kicks off.
The skies of Borso del Grappa (Treviso) and the Veneto foothills will host hundreds of paragliders and hang gliders from 1st to 5th April, competing in the Montegrappa Trophy, Europe's largest free-flight competition.
Hundreds of pilots will take to the air—last year saw 239 from 18 nations—battling through turns and glides in the blue Treviso skies.
Using their only engine—thermal updrafts—favourable weather in past years has allowed champions to fly as far as Caltrano (Vicenza), Feltre (Belluno), and Possagno (Treviso).
This year brings major innovations: alongside the usual FAI Category 2 competition for paragliders and Class 1-5 hang gliders, and the traditional Expo featuring top industry brands, we’ve also created space for non-competing pilots visiting during the event. How? Simple: by organising an open-entry accuracy landing competition.
The spectacle will be unforgettable: tandem paragliding flights, climbing walls, Nordic walking, mountain biking excursions, gourmet stalls, and local produce. Kite enthusiasts will even have a dedicated area to build kites with industry experts—perfect for stealing "all the trade secrets".
Plus, prizes for all! The organising committee will award the best video "capturing the spirit" of the event, to be submitted right after the competition.
Registrations are now closed with over 300 applications; due to logistical constraints, only 260 pilots can compete. Those not selected (and visiting pilots) can still enjoy a precision landing contest—another 2010 edition novelty.
The event is organised annually by Aero Club Montegrappa and the Vivere il Grappa tourism consortium, supported by dozens of volunteers. It includes an exhibition area showcasing top flight equipment brands, plus gourmet stalls and local products.
Thousands of visitors can enjoy side activities: tandem paragliding, climbing, Nordic walking, guided hikes, children’s entertainment, and a kite-building zone with specialists.
In short, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss this spectacular event—a unique chance to discover these sports and witness true flight professionals in action.
