Kruševo, North Macedonia – July 21, 2025

The opening day of the Paragliding World Cup in Krushevo was met with anticipation, high spirits, and… high winds. While expectations soared as pilots gathered on the takeoff at Meckin Kamen, nature had other plans.

As the task committee prepared to launch the first task of the week, it became quickly apparent that conditions were far from ideal. Strong, gusty winds swept over the launch area, making takeoffs not only slow but technically demanding. Gliders were seen dancing restlessly in the wind, with many pilots waiting for extended periods in hopes of a safer window to launch.

Despite the skill and patience of the pilots and ground crews, the strong conditions persisted. Some takeoffs were successful, but progress was frustratingly slow, with extended holds between each launch for safety checks. The situation became increasingly precarious as the same wind patterns affecting takeoff began to intensify down in the valley — now creating turbulent and potentially unsafe conditions at landing zones as well.

With safety as the number one priority, the launch was temporarily suspended, giving the organizers time to assess the rapidly changing conditions. Shortly afterward, the decision was made to officially cancel Task 1. While a difficult call to make, it was undoubtedly the right one — ensuring that no one was put at unnecessary risk on what was shaping up to be an unpredictable flying day.