I've been fascinated by surfing since the sixties, when it burst on the World's consciousness via films like "The Endless Summer" (1966) and continuing through other amazing works ("Riding Giants," 2004, and "Step into Liquid," 2003). But, as a desert rat in New Mexico, surfing opportunities are nonexistent. However, riding the incredible ocean of air in a hang glider or sailplane has captured the essence of riding along with Nature's power. And a thirty second ride on a killer wave doesn't seem to match (in my mind, at least) the four to five hour experience at high altitude, covering hundreds of miles over diverse terrain.

Downside to surfing: Having to paddle out for ten minutes to catch another thirty second ride. Also: Drowning, Sharks, Jellyfish.

Downside to soaring: Bikinis rarely seen at the airfield. (However, this could also be a blessing, considering the age of the participants and their crewmembers.)