We've handicapped or sport class competitions for years based on
hang glider type, which very much affects performance. CIVL doesn't approve of
this in Category 1 competitions. In fact, they are horrified by it.

Bruce Goldsmith really likes the idea and applies it to his competition using
weight as the main determination of performance and handicapping.

http://www.bgd-weightless.org/

Notice the great photo looking back from the flats at Chelan Butte, Washington,
USA.

BGD is pleased to announce a brand new annual event based on
weight classes. Up to now flying heavy has always been an advantage. This has
resulted in heavy equipment and ballast for competitions. BGD would like to
change all this and encourage people to fly with light equipment. Woman and men
will also not be separated as these weight classes will even up the sexes.

The BGD Weightless is aimed at up and coming pilots looking to improve their XC,
competition experience or just to enjoy a unique experience hanging out with
some of the best pilots in the world. Hosted in a relaxed environment, the event
will be in France in the fantastic St Jean Montclar venue from Sun 7th to Sat
13th July 2019. Leading the event will be Bruce Goldsmith and he will have a
world class team behind him to present one of the most advanced events in the
world, without spoiling the fun. The event is particularly suited to leisure
pilots that have done some small XC’s (20km+) and have flown in one or two fun
competitions, but it will not exclude more advanced pilots, who will also
benefit from participation. CCC and 2-liners will not be allowed to participate
and the focus will be on the B and C class, although A and D gliders are
allowed. The event will be scored also by FAI rules and will be an CAT2 event.
There will be prizes, lectures, coaching and fun throughout.

New for 2019. We will be applying a new parameter. A handicap on total weight.
The lighter you are, the bigger the bonus. So leave the ballast at home, and fly
your paraglider the way it was intended. The lightest aircraft in the world!

A handicap will be introduced on total take off weight, to remove some of the
advantage of flying heavy There will be a limit on total equipment weight that
the pilot may fly with. The current FAI limit of 33kg will be reduced to 20kg
CCC and 2-liner gliders will be excluded. This will be a Serial class event only.