Feb 2009

739 Worlds 2009 Notes from the selection teleconference held 5th Feb at 7pm Mike Stephens (Chair) Nigel Bray Graham Phipps John Aldridge Carl Wallbank Steve Penfold Dave Bluett (from 19.42) The purpose of the meeting was to decide if we should review the positioning of places 4 and 5 following the withdrawal of Robin Hamilton (RH) as the basis for selection of these team places was very different. Bruce Kavanagh (BK) would normally take place 4 and Gordon Rigg (GR) as first reserve would normally move to 5th place. The Panel reviewed the original selection for places 4 and 5 and after considerable discussion concluded that RH should be replaced as 4th placed pilot by GR rather than BK as the basis for the selection of those pilots was similar; in that case BK would remain as the 5th pilot. The discussion moved to the withdrawal of RH and that this had changed the balance of the team. MS said that RH had said that he had withdrawn from the team with the intention of putting an end to the acrimonious discussion that had ensued over the original selections and to the review by Exec of the panel's actions. RH's withdrawal had not had the desired effect and he had given up what he felt was a deserved place for no benefit for UK Hang Gliding. MS confirmed that GR had been informed of RH's wish but had declined to withdraw his complaint. MS also stated that he had confirmed to GR that he was now on the team. The panel concluded that the original selection remained the correct one and that the absence of RH from the team changed the balance. It was decided that RH should be offered a chance to reconsider his withdrawal. If RH did agree to fill his place in the team as originally selected BK would remain 5th pilot with both GR'sand DM's places as 1st and 2nd reserve also unchanged. MS agreed to telephone RH followed by calls to BK and GR depending on RH's response.