Parasailing and paragliding are two ways one can come closest to get a 'feel' of flying. Rendezvous Sports and Adventure, Gujarat an initiative by a city-based couple has started these adventure sports at the TV tower ground, Drive-in Road.
"The dream is to fly over the rainbow so high." Such is the power of this wonderful Yves Larock track, that for a moment, it compels you to rue human being's inability to fly. The freedom to fly and drift around in open skies like myriad birds is not under our control but the thrill and rush can still be matched.
Parasailing and paragliding are two ways one can come closest to get a 'feel' of flying. Rendezvous Sports and Adventure, Gujarat an initiative by a city-based couple has started these adventure sports at the TV tower ground, Drive-in Road.
"Our group is affiliated to National Adventure Foundation, an NGO that funded Bachendri Pal's Everest trip. We want to promote adventure sports among the kids in Gujarat," says Anita Balia, head of the club.
The couple, who spent a major part of their life in Dubai, was amazed by the facilities and interest among the people there for adventure sports. They hope to recreate some of that fervour in Gujarat. However, lack of enthusiasm is proving to be a major roadblock.
"I have always been an adventure sports junkie. In our times, the facilities were not available here. In UAE, everyone enjoys the sports and therefore, I decided to start something similar here," says Vijay Balia, who owns the club.
He says that though some schools in the city have started taking a keen interest, more parents should encourage their kids to try out such sports. "The feeling to fly high is simply amazing. It also helps kids get rid of their fear of heights. The changing wind patterns will help them cope with challenges," he adds.
Echoing his views is Nazim Qureshi of Avian Escapades, who has been conducting adventure sports in the state for over 10 years. "Most kids today stay indoors with their playstations and computers. Trying out adventure sports will help them build confidence," he says.
Apart from parasailing, Qureshi also conducts paragliding courses for fours days, which costs Rs15,000. "People can get their own glider and fly."
While the basic courses are expensive, pocket-friendly yet fun-filled joyrides will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. The joyrides cost between Rs250 to300 per launch and the kids even get certificates after three launches.
"We have proper harnesses and well-trained and experienced pilots. Towed behind a jeep, the participant is hooked to a specially designed parachute and is pulled into the air as the jeep picks momentum. The average height is 350ft," explains Anita.
The Balias also plan to launch other activities depending on
how Amdavadis receive this concept. "Adventure sports can be really addictive.
If all goes well then we will also introduce water and land zorbing, high rope and zip line."
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