Since yesterday in Boquerón, friendly challenges had already been flying back and forth—and today was race day. Nixon Porrata vs. Edgardo Rivera. But let’s take it step by step and explain how we got here…
A Brief History of Nixon vs. Edgardo…
First, Edgardo Rivera is the pilot with the most flights logged so far this year. It’s impressive to think he’s close to reaching 1,000 flights during the year. On the other side, Nixon is a veteran pilot with some National Records on the Island. He spent several years living and working in the USA and is now back with us flying almost every day.
Both are excellent pilots and have recently crossed paths in friendly cross-country flight challenges. This time, however, speed was the focus. To give you an idea of their commitment to the sport, both pilots arrived in Isabela around 6:00 AM to fly—when most pilot activities usually begin around 9:30 AM.
Weather Conditions and Pilots Present…
Unlike yesterday, today’s wind conditions were strong—some would say “only for men.” Winds started at 15 mph in the morning and increased to 25 mph in the afternoon. This didn’t stop Team pilots from flying freely and enjoying the conditions.
Along with Nixon and Edgardo, pilots present included Luis Ruiz with his son Noah, Scott Sansone, Sam Travis, Fio Lopez, Paul Whitmore, Javier Cordero, Wilkins “Chino” Morales, Randy Kester, Jomar Crespo, Pedro Gregory, Daniel White, and Ryan Glowka along with his mother.
Ryan Glowka Showing His Skills Once Again…
Once again, Ryan demonstrated his impressive paramotor skills. Strong winds didn’t stop him from fully enjoying flying around our island. At one point, he was joined in the air by Sam Travis and Edgardo Rivera, and the three flew together over Royal Isabela, offering spectacular views. We’re sharing two videos that best showcase his skills and unique flying style.
Luis Ruiz and an Introductory Tandem Flight…
At one point, Luis Ruiz took off on an introductory tandem flight with Ethan, Gabriel’s son, who came to experience paramotoring firsthand. We’re sharing a short video highlighting that experience.
Nixon vs. Edgardo — The Race, Part I…
Finally, in the afternoon, a paramotor speed race between Nixon and Edgardo was officially set. Chino Morales and Pedro Gregory positioned themselves along part of the route to ensure both pilots reached the turnaround point, while also providing live narration from mid-course.
During negotiations over which paraglider each pilot would use, disagreements arose—so much so that Nixon briefly left the launch area.
Eventually, everything was resolved, and Nixon and Edgardo didn’t race just once, but there a rematch, using different paragliders each time! Here are some video recap showing how the story unfolded as the races progressed. ENJOY!!!
Photos…
