Steve,
To amplify a bit on Burt's comments. The direct link to US badge related information is
http://www.ssa.org/myhome.asp?mbr=5361749529
The US badges are administered by the SSA. I agree with Burt that you should join the SSA. However, US FAI badges are not only for SSA members. For members they are free. A non-member must pay a fee of $20 with each claim application.
http://www.ssa.org/files/member/Application10.pdf
Soaring is a great sport and personally, I enjoy chasing badges.
http://www.soaridaho.com/Flights/6F_Gold_Distance.html
Wayne
HP-14 "6F"
http://tinyurl.com/N990-6F
"Burt Compton - Marfa" wrote in message ...
.... Snip ...
..
Note: You will add the glider category rating to your existing
Private Pilot Certificate (USA).
It is not an endorsement, as you wrote, it is a FAA Practical Test.
Details under FAA CFR's part 61.107 and 61.109.
Your glider instructor will make sure you meet all of the FAA
requirements for ground and flight training and recommend some texts
and videos.
Bob Wander's "Private Pilot Checkride Made Easy" book will help you
study for the checkride (FAA "Practical Test".)
This winter keep in mind the "season" does not end (as many write) but
continues year-round at soaring sites in the southern Sun Belt of the
USA and well north at some mountain sites. See the "Where to Fly"
page at www.ssa.org
All the best -- keep us updated with your progress!
Burt
Marfa Gliders, west Texas USA