Article and photos by John Switala

It is my pleasure to announce the recipients of the Gliding Club of Victoria Awards 2009, as presented on 14 November at the State Gliding Center.

Leigh Simpson Trophy

Most outstanding trainee: Bernie Hochwimmer

Carr Withall Trophy

Most meritorious flight: Toby Geiger (for his flight Benalla -> NE of West Wyalong -> NE of Hay -> Benalla, 958 kms at 97 kph in an LS4)

Lin Beck Trophy

Best two-seater flight: Michael Sommer and Vivienne Bryner (for their flight Benalla -> East of Narromine -> Woodside -> Benalla, 606 kms at 127 kph in a Duo Discus)

Stephen Wicks Trophy

Best novice cross-country pilot: Kah Chong (completing his FAI Gold Badge for his flight Benalla -> Henty -> Yarrawonga -> Benalla, 316 km in a Junior)

Ken Skinner Trophy

Highest seeded pilot: Toby Geiger

Smith Sports Class Trophy

Best sports class pilot: Brendan English (for his flight Benalla -> Temora -> Finley -> Mansfield -> Benalla, 684 kms at 85 kph)

Ed McKeogh Award

Highest Aggregate Competition Score: Toby Geiger

Martin Kriening Award

Best duty pilot: Gerry Quinlan

Dick Wheller Trophy

President's award for service to GCV: Lew Tankard and Robert Brown (for their rapid response and care of injured pilots following the MCF tug accident)

Taxi award

Rhonda Gelletly was also presented with an impromptu award by Gerry Hogan for her much appreciated taxi skills earlier in the year when Gerry was struck by a medical emergency.

Toby has demonstrated that despite being a modest gentleman, he is laying down a challenge to the rest of us to take some of those trophies back next year.

Congratulations to all!