I came to gliding quite late. I was 50 and slightly lacking in confidence. It immediately gave me a feeling of achievement. There was the camaraderie of the gliding club, all the cooperation on the ground, and the feeling of climbing up through the smooth, still air.

I've flown over Mont Blanc. Perhaps the word gets overused, but there is a privilege that comes with such an experience - of doing something few others can even attempt, of using currents of rising air to reach huge distances and great height.

I have three children, and they think I'm a bit potty. They've flown with me a couple of times. I get told, "You be careful up there."

Golf, I hear, is a very compelling activity. Fine, but my first flight solo was a real feeling of achievement. I was yelling out, "I've done it!" I wanted to fly well. I wanted to make the perfect landing. With the gliding club, if you land in a farmer's field, there's always someone to get you out with a trailer.

Gliding suits my independent streak. You're making decisions for yourself. This independence has been one of the largest reasons for happiness throughout my life. I've been fortunate in my career: I'm not a well-known photographer, but I've made a living out of something I like. I haven't had to deal with a boss. In the sky you are alone. You can be happy if you follow your own course.