JEDDAH, 3 September 2004 — He began flying when he joined the Saudi Air Force more than 15 years ago. He started glider flying as a hobby. During the summer festival, the president of the European team participating in the festival asked him to join his team which was training in Spain. After that, he represented Saudi Arabia in many competitions around the world.
Sayidaty was happy to interview Capt. Ahmad Al-Zahrani.
What made you learn to fly gliders?
When I was in Corsica, an island in the Mediterranean south of France, I saw some people flying gliders. I wanted to learn the sport and so began to undergo intensive training and tests.
When I returned to Saudi Arabia, I started to practice glider flying and wanted to open a new club for glider flying. I got plenty of support to open the club and now I participate in all festivals.
Have you participated in local and international competitions?
Yes to both. I got a lot of experience from practicing for them.
Have you got a training certificate?
I am licensed to be a glider-flying trainer; in addition I hold international flying licenses which enable me to participate in international competitions.
What did you accomplish during your training?
I achieved the second position in the European level in 2002 when I participated in Hungary and I achieved the sixth place on the world level in 2003 in Birmingham, England.
Do you think that glider flying is suitable for women and are there any women participating?
Glider flying is not limited to one sex. Women can participate easily unless there are physical reasons to prevent them. In some international competitions, I have seen women from Morocco, France and Spain.
Do you have other hobbies?
I love to travel and learn about the world.
What would you like to achieve in the future?
I want to break the world record for non-stop flying. The present record is 622 kilometers.
On the domestic level, I would like to fly through the opening at the top of the Kingdom Tower in Riyadh. It would be dangerous but I would like to try.
