Philosophy
One size does not fit all. My teaching style is personalized towards my student’s needs. I primarily teach 1:1 to maximize performance and offer the attention a student deserves in learning a technical craft. My training and teaching style is intensive and direct. Lessons are customized, keeping the student’s speed flying goals at the forefront. Lessons can be scheduled as introductions, daily coaching or completion of the full certification.
I enjoy working with athletes that understand these activities have to be approached with humility and dedication. Speed flying is easy to get in over your head and do poorly. This is unlike other sports where there is often a built in strength or skill factor that keeps the athlete honest. Speed flying needs to be done with precision, style, respect and mindfulness to optimize performance, lessen risk and increase safety. My teaching style is to empower my students to look at the mountain as if a piece of canvas and to choose a line with single-pointed awareness rather than bombing down in a haphazard, careless way. Speed flying is aviation and should not be taken lightly, therefore I teach with a focus on the importance of micrometeorology. Understanding the weather and conditions is as critical to this activity as is avalanche awareness to a backcountry athlete.
As an USHPA rated instructor, I am aware that not all speed flying pilots want to or will choose to fly regulated sites. Regardless of whether someone seeks the entire rating or just coaching, I teach with the same educational integrity, keeping the foundation of safety as the primary goal.
Mentoring
As an instructor and fellow adventurer, I understand the large learning curve in going from a training hill to adventure mountain flying. This leap can be really intimidating, so it is a great privilege to follow my students progress by always sharing my experiences and knowledge while continuing to mentor them on their journey.
My History
The mountains are the ultimate playground to test yourself; emotionally, physically and spiritually. I am honored to teach others activities that act as active meditation. Through these nature based adventure sports, I have learned so much about myself and the world around me. I love teaching others these activities to help them tap into their full potential and challenge their personal limits. They are much more to me than just the sport. They are the the greatest teacher. I am passionate about the growth that nature based adventure sports can catalyze. I have been humbled by playing and teaching in the world of mountain sports for over 25 years. As an Advanced Paragliding Instructor, Mini-Wing Instructor, P4 Pilot and Tandem Pilot, my adventures and teaching have taken me around the world and given me unique experiences and a vast history which I bring to my students. Additionally, I am a Certified NASM Personal Trainer, CPR/First-Aid, Wilderness First-Aid Certified and avalanche trained.
Contact Information
Gary Begley
818.967.7594
gbegley25@hotmail.com
Utah Speed flying 