Keel Pocket

Photo of Bill Moyes Glider at Mere 1977 taken by Don Liddard

The keel pocket arrived in the UK during August 1977 as an added extra to Bill Moyes gliders, that were taking part at the annual Mere Competition. However, its invention goes back to Steve Cohen an Australian.

Steve Cohen, is recognised as the most prolific designer of Ultralight Aircraft in Australia although he started by designing and building Hang Gliders for Bill Moyes. Steve came up with the idea of a Keel pocket to help flatten the sail round about the time that Steve left the Moyes company. An idea that Bill was quick to adopt. Its believed the first glider he added it to was the 'Stinger'.

Steve then went on to form his own company 'Ultralight Flight Systems' and was once the largest Hang Glider Manufacturing company in Australia, and his wing was flown by the first ever World Champion, Terry Delore of New Zealand.

During the 1977 Mere Competition Moyes gliders were place 1st, 2nd and 3rd in Class two.

 

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Bill Moyes at Mere 1977 photos taken by Don Liddard