YODER, Kan. — For the first time in 20 years, the Sunflower Gliderport at the old navy base will host the 2019 National Soaring Championship for gliders competing in the Club Class June 2-13. Sunflower Gliderport has operated since 1974 and is home to the Kansas Soaring Association. This is the first national championship held at Sunflower Gliderport since 1989.

Approximately 35 pilots from across the United States will use rising air currents to race their unpowered aircraft around a set task each day. Points are awarded daily based on the speed achieved. Pilots will also be competing for a spot on the U.S. Soaring Team and the honor of representing the U.S. at the biennial World Championships.

Takeoffs will be made daily, weather permitting, between noon and 1 p.m. and are open the public. Pilots will return from their race course late in the afternoon. The exact location of takeoffs and landings will be determined as the event gets closer and will be announced by Visit Hutch. The event will also feature online tracking to allow spectators to follow along.

For any questions about Sunflower Gliderport or the National Soaring Championship, contact Tony Condon at abcondon@gmail.com.