The Barberton Paragliding Open 2025 concluded on Friday, 20 June, after a week of spectacular winter flying and warm Lowveld hospitality.
A record 73 pilots, including six international participants and nine women, gathered at Lone Tree Hill for one of the most anticipated events on South Africa’s paragliding calendar.

Over the course of the week, four valid tasks were flown in reliable winter thermic conditions.

This year’s event welcomed six pilots from abroad: Ludovic Robert, Marion Monduel and David Bourgerie from Réunion, France; Bradley Knoesen from the United Kingdom; Michele Lodi-Fè from Italy; and Kayhan Dura from Turkey.

Russell Achterberg from South Africa was the overall podium winner for 2025. Robert was second, and Pierre Ackermann from South Africa third.

When weather grounded the fleet, visiting pilots explored Barberton’s many attractions, including the Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail, gold panning, 4×4 tours, trail running routes, and even first-time visits to the Kruger National Park.

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The event was made possible through the hospitality and co-operation of the greater Barberton community, which once again opened their hearts and homes to the visiting pilots.

“A special thank you goes to Sappi, the landowners of the Lone Tree Hill take-off spot; the Barberton Golf Club for hosting landings and the prize-giving; Klaver Earthmoving for their logistical support; and the South African Hang-gliding and Paragliding Association for regulatory assistance.

“The organisers also extend deep appreciation to local businesses like Barberton Adventures, Dusty Tracks Tours, The Geo-Trail Lodge, Destination Butterfly Service, Roots Butchery, and many others whose warm welcome made this event truly memorable,” said the Barberton Paragliding Open organiser, Mias de Klerk.

“This year’s open had it all – a record turnout, international flair, and the unbeatable energy of Barberton’s people and landscapes. Our heartfelt thanks go out to every sponsor, supporter, and local business who helped make this possible.”

Category winners:
• Novice class: Shaun Slabbert
• Intermediate (EN-B Class): Khobi-Jane Bowden
• Sport (EN-C Class): Cal Dyker
• Performance (EN-D Class): Russell Achterberg
• Competition (CCC Class): Ludovic Robert
• Ladies category: Khobi-Jane Bowden (2nd: Tracey King, 3rd: Marion Monduel).