X-Lakes 2026 - Following Tom (1)
- Graham Kendall
- 6 hours ago
- 1 min read
This video is the first in a series, called FOLLOWING TOM. It is a series of "reconnaissance" or training videos for the 2026 X-Lakes, based on trying to repeat the most difficult sections of Tom Hodgkin's run & fly Bob Graham round in June 2024.
For the 2026 X-Lakes, race director John Westall has said that the 2-day event will be based broadly on the Bob Graham round, as a race to goal. We don't know the exact rules yet, or the turn points that John will set. These details will probably be set by John closer to the time, and based (probably) on the weather conditions and safety factors.
But, I thought it would be good training - and fun! - to repeat the hardest "transition problems" from Tom Hodgkin's magnificent round. If nothing else, I hope that it might encourage pilots to come and try the X-lakes in 2026, in this new format, and to help pilots who don't live locally / don't have time to practice in the Lake District through the year.
Here are some more useful links for anyone wanting to research the history of paragliding the Bob Graham:
USEFUL LINKS:
Ed Cleasby's Northern Challenge task, based on the Bob Graham round, set in 2019.
John Westall & Keith "Bud" Paterson's successful attempt at this, flown entirely in the air on a thermic day, from April 2021.
Tom Hodgkin's video of his successful "Bob Graham with a paraglider" run & fly round in June 2024.
Tom Hodgkin's tracklog from June 2024, on HAF track.