Pilots who live at higher altitudes (Colorado, New Mexico) definitely have an advantage, as they are well acclimated to the thinner air. I remember seeing visitors from low-lying states gasping as they tried to carry their hang gliders on 12,200 ft. Gold Hill at Telluride, while those of us that were more used to it were hauling 100+ lbs. up the last stretch to launch with no significant problem. Of course, we were a lot younger then....