Potchefstroom was the perfect host for the annual 2026 South African National Gliding Championships, which took place from October 3-10.

Local and international glider pilots took to the skies and engaged in tactical and technical battles across three classes: the 18m Class, Club Class and Two-Seater Class.

Thirteen international competitors took part, with Adam Woolley of Australia winning gold in the 18m Class. Former Potch Gimmie, Phillip Jonker, secured second place with a superb performance. He also received a trophy for being the highest-placed South African.

New Zealand-born John Coutts won the Club Class, with Christian Hynek (Austria) finishing second and Bronwen Klaas (South Africa) taking third place. The duo of Jansen (Netherlands) and Andersen (Denmark) took first place in the Two-Seater Class.

Glider pilots had to complete distances of 300 to 500km per day. On the seventh day, the route and various tasks took competitors from Potchefstroom to Leeudoringstad, Heilbron and Rysmierbult before returning to Potchefstroom. These sailplanes can also travel at an average speed of 190km/h.

One of the reasons Potchefstroom is chosen to host the gliding championships is its excellent weather conditions and fantastic runway, as well as the world-renowned Jonker Sailplanes factory and its expertise based in Potchefstroom.

What is a sailplane?

A sailplane, also known as a glider, relies on aerodynamic efficiency and natural currents of rising air to stay aloft. Unlike a conventional aeroplane, it does not rely on an engine for propulsion.

To read more on sailplanes follow AKA Gliding Club on Facebook.