8th Paragliding European Championship postponed

CIVL regret to advise that the 8th European Paragliding Championship at Kalavrita cannot be held at the originally designated dates due to NATO forces forbidding flying. NATO is responsible for the safety of the Olympic Games in Athens and security has been increased after the Madrid bombings. According to NATO the area that the tasks will take place will be patrolled by aircrafts for security reasons and thus no other flying activity is permitted in the area. The Greek Airsports Federation took every possible action in order to alter NATO's decision but without result. They are ready to host the event but cannot change either NATO' s decision nor the security committee's will for forbiddance of any flying activity in the area more than a month before the Olympiad. The organisers have suggested that the competition is rescheduled to 1 to 12 October. This proposal and other alternatives are being considered by a CIVL PG sub committee and a decision will be made by early May. CIVL regret that this championship has had to be postponed but realises it is out of the control of the organisers of the event. It is hoped a suitable alternative can be arranged CIVL look forward to welcoming pilots to an enjoyable and satisfying championship. More information will be circulated as soon as it is available.