Up, up and away.
That was the plan for Benjamin Jordan, a paraglider who is aiming to fly across Canada to break a world record for the longest distance travelled by a powered paraglider. He is also raising money for provincial charities that help children attend summer camp.
Jordan planned to take off from Lindale School in Moose Jaw Friday morning when he hit a snag. The wind posed a danger.
"We will try again later in the evening or early Saturday morning," said Jordan.
Jordan uses a small propeller engine that sits on his back and that allows him to launch from a field.
"It is foot launch, so it's like Fred Flintstone meets the Jetsons," said Jordan. "I have to run to get the wing up to speed and at the same time I am giving it a lot of thrust, which helps me run fast. I have to get my body moving at about 35 to 40 kilometres a hour. At that point my feet will lift."
Some schoolyards have been bigger than others, which has made for easier take offs for Jordan, while some have giant trees around them or power lines.
"It has been a bit dicey at times," said Jordan.
Read more in Saturday's Times-Herald.
