Off field retrieve accident

Saturday June 27th saw great soaring conditions around the Nephi Utah area. While many folks were racking up the miles we had one glider land in field near the Moroni UT with no issues.. A group of volunteers were mustered to assist with the retrieve as the glider was a large heavy 2 seater.

While getting the glider ready to put in the glider a thunderstorm developed and a subsequent gust crossed the field and hit the glider, trailer and retrieve crew.

The gusty winds created zero visibility, picked up the trailer, turned it up side down and slammed backed to the ground even though it was still attached to the retrieve vehicle. Charlie Ryan from Austin Texas got hit by the trailer and suffered major trauma to his head and one knee.

He was transported to the local hospital via ambulance and subsequently air lifted to a trauma center in Provo UT. The major concern has bleeding on the brain. As of Sunday afternoon the bleeding has stopped and optimism has been expressed by the medical staff.

Charlie's wife Jan is now in Utah with Charlie and asked that this information be posted so that all of Charlie's friend are aware of the situation.

We will provide updates as we get additional information.

Please keep Charlie in your thoughts

Ron Gleason
Bruno Vassel