International Bognor Birdman

The Bognor Birdman started in 1971 as the "International Bird-Man Rally" in nearby Selsey, West Sussex. The competition involves running off the end of a pier and attempting to 'fly' the furthest distance. There was an initial prize of £1000 (later £3000) for anyone who could travel beyond convert|50|yd.

In 1978 the growing competition moved to the larger Bognor Regis resort, which also has a higher pier. By 1983 the competition had attracted European teams and the attention of the BBC.

Several participants compete just to raise money for charity, but other serious competitors attempt to win the prize money.In 1984 Harold Zimmer (Germany) flew 57.8 metres to claim the top prize, which then stood at £10,000. By 1990 the record was 71 metres, the prize distance had been increased to 100 metres and the prize money was £25,000.

Although jumping off the pier is strictly prohibited, allowances are made for this event only. People otherwise caught doing so will be prosecuted and may face police charges. In 1992 the current record of convert|89.2|m|ft was set by Dave Bradshaw.

In 2008, due to the demolition of an 18 metre (60 ft) length of the end of Bognor pier, the 2008 Birdman event was cancelled in Bognor, as it was thought that the new water depth of less than convert|12|ft|m at the new end of the pier posed a safety risk to contestants. As such, the event was moved to its neighbouring town, Worthing. The 2008 event took place over the weekend of 5th/6th July. Ron Freeman took 1st place in the 'Condor Class' with a distance of 85.9 metres.

The date for 2009 is likely to be late August, again in Worthing - who look set to keep the International Birdman Rally for the next 5 years.

ee also

*Birdman Rally
*Red Bull Flugtag

References

External links

* [http://www.birdman.org.uk Official site]
* [http://www.olivierpascaud.com/birdman Bognor Birdman photos]