Jim decided to reverse his mylar inserts in the parking lot of our motel. Big-time comp pilots are always looking for that extra edge to maintain their advantage over the competition - and their friends!

Sandia Mountain looms in the background as we try to get our equipment together for some flights later in the day.

Meeting folks in the main LZ before heading up the mountain for our first flights.

The crowd gathers in the main LZ before heading up to Sandia Crest in the background.

Sandia Mountain is on the right in this view from the back of Dallas Willis's truck as we go all the way around it on the way up to the Crest launch, about an hour trip from the LZ.

The set-up area for the Crest launch is right in the middle of a large broadcast antenna complex. Needless to say, all that RF energy drove my vario, GPS, and radio nuts!

Our Crest guide for the day, Steve Tomany, shows Andy Hu the way to run when launching.

The absolutely incredible view of the city of Albuquerque a mile below. This is the pilot's view from the launch area.

Here I am, getting ready to take off.

The moment I spent lots of time and money on finally arrives. And yes, it was worth it!