Chalk another one up for our “legends” series. This week I sit down with Tom Peghiny to visit with Malcolm Jones, two legends in the world of hang gliding. They share their personal journeys into the sport, from Malcolm’s early experiences with water skiing and the very first known towing of hang gliders which later became the Wallaby Ranch, the first aerotow facility in the world. The discussion covers the evolution of hang gliding competitions, memorable events, and the impact of their aviation experiences on their lives. The conversation also touches on the connection to Disney and the growth of the hang gliding community over the years. Malcolm discusses the evolution of aerotowing in hang gliding, emphasizing its advantages over traditional winching methods. He shares personal anecdotes about flying with celebrities, the unique culture at Wallaby Ranch, and the community that built up around hang gliding. As he prepares for a transition in his life, he reflects on the legacy of his ranch and the joy of introducing others to the magic of flight.







TakeawaysMalcolm’s first encounter with hang gliding was at Cypress Gardens.He initially found hang gliding scary but later fell in love with it.Malcolm’s early flights were behind a boat, which he found exhilarating.He learned to tow and foot launch in the Tampa Bay area.The Tennessee Tree Toppers were a significant part of his early flying experience.Malcolm and Tom became fast friends in the early days of hang gliding.Competitions were a mix of duration, spot landing, and zigzag pylons.Malcolm won several competitions, including one in Guatemala.The Disney show ‘Surprised in the Skies’ was a pivotal moment for Malcolm.Wallaby Ranch has become a central hub for hang gliding in Florida. Aerotowing revolutionized hang gliding instruction.Dual instruction is key to effective flight training.Aerotowing is safer and more comfortable than winching.Malcolm has flown with numerous celebrities.The Wallaby Ranch fostered a unique hang gliding community.Promotions like naked tandem flights were part of the fun.Hang gliding has provided countless memorable experiences for participants.The culture at Wallaby Ranch is familial and supportive.Malcolm’s transition from hang gliding reflects a new chapter in life.The joy of flying is often described as magical by participants.Sound Bites“I just fell head over heels in love with it.”“I had a very unusual mom.”“I had no idea that how dangerous it was.”“I think I was flying a Seagull.”“I could talk for weeks.”“I was just super lucky.”“My idea was to teach with dual instruction.”“There’s no comparison at all.”“I’ve done a tremendous amount of both.”“Hang gliding is the flyingest flying.”“We did a lot of naked tandem discovery flights.”“It’s been my baby. I’ve never had any partners.”“I think I’m the luckiest guy ever.”Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hang Gliding Legends01:14 Malcolm’s Early Experiences with Hang Gliding08:53 Transitioning to Foot Launch and Soaring16:34 The Rise of Competition Hang Gliding24:47 Memorable Competitions and Experiences28:11 The Disney Connection and...