What is F3K?
F3K is an FAI class for Discus Launch Glider competitions—small, lightweight hand-launched sailplanes about 1.5 meters in span. Pilots throw their gliders by spinning like a discus thrower, reaching 150–250 feet in altitude (or a set height for e-F3K where a motor is used for launching).
Competition rounds contain one or multiple flight “tasks” flown within a limited working time—like completing several 2-minute flights or progressively longer “ladder” flights within the round.
Success depends on precision, quick turnarounds (catching and re-launching), and the ability to find and center tiny low-level thermals. It is a much more active form of soaring that provides for variety of soaring tasks in each event.