Organisers of the UK Mountain Soaring Competition in Aboyne have said the week long event is going “magnificently”.
Some of the most talented glider pilots from across the country have flocked to Deeside Gliding Club to test their skills in speed and flight length.
So far highlights have included a flight at 29,705ft by Aboyne-based John Tanner and a top recorded speed of 115.5mph.
Gliders have no engines and are towed into the sky, with pilots moving the wings to manoeuvre and soar through the air in style.
The competition began on Sunday and events are being held daily until Saturday.
Yesterday the pilots were faced with a 157 mile route taking them above Loch Kinord, Ballater and Braemar, among other landmarks.
David Innes from Deeside Gliding Club said: “While six gliders flew the entire route, many did not and landed in various fields, or just returned to Aboyne having flown part of the route.
“The day was won by John Tanner with a speed of 79kph (50mph) which, considering the poor weather, was excellent.
“He is leading the competition.”
