Above the scenic mountains surrounding the Marfa Plateau, an abundance of atmospheric energy attracts gliding enthusiasts from around the world. Since 1960, sailplane pilots have utilized convective thermal updrafts, the “Marfa Dry Line” and wave lift for record setting soaring flights, four US National Soaring Contests (1967, 1969, 1991, 2006) and the first World Soaring Championships (1970) flown in the United States. In addition to formal competitions, pilots continue to gather at annual soaring camps to explore the superb weather conditions in this area. This marker is dedicated to the men and women who developed Marfa as a historic soaring site.
Cover Page
Cover Page, June 1970 SOARING Magazine, advertising “America’s First World Soaring Championships.”
George Moffat
George Moffat and his Nimbus at Marfa, Texas during the 1970 Internationals.
Ben Greene
Ben Greene flying his Standard Austria in 1966 over Marfa, TX.
ASK13 Glider
The ASK13 glider arrived with the souvenir mail: Burt Compton, Pilot, George Moffat, co-pilot and “mail-carrier,” and Tiburcio Garcia, PM Marfa.
Mailcarrier
Commemorative Postmark used on souvenir mail, flown by glider.
Soaring No.15 Plaque
National Landmark of Soaring No.15 plaque at the Marfa, TX airport.
Visitors came from everywhere . . .