On Thursday, May 23, 2013 11:31:22 AM UTC-6, Evan Ludeman wrote:
More slow news, this is hilarious.



http://framework.latimes.com/2013/05...hed-sailplane/



This has to be a hoax. Fun though.



T8

The LA Times wire service photo is definitely a fake. The 'rope' from the glider to the rider is simply a drawn-in line. The real tow cable is visible just over the rider's heads. The dust AHEAD of the rider on the right is probably from the tow car.

There are other similar fake photos around. The riders just cut in ahead of the glider for a few seconds while the cameraman takes the picture - then a touch-up artist draws in the fake rope.

Is it possible it could be done for real? Yes - if there's enough wind. If you had a 45kt wind, all you'd need is a big stake.