Ismael Ortuzar
Name: Ismael Ortuzar
Date of birth: 2005
Nationality: Chile
Paraglider: OMIKRON
Harness: SUCCESS 5
Flies since: 2016
Achievements: Acro World Qualifier Champion
About
At the age of five, Ismael took off for the first time in a tandem flight with Bicho Carrera. Today, Bicho is his mentor and friend. At the age of fifteen, he moved with his family from the city to the sea, which allowed him to further refine his flying skills. After finishing school, he decided to focus on acro paragliding. In 2024, in his first competition season, he became Acro World Qualifier Champion - a dream come true for Ismael and just the beginning.
Interview
Do you remember your first flight? How was it?
My first flight was at five years old, when Bicho Carrera, two-time world acro champion, took me to fly at B Plaza. I loved it, especially the maneuvers. Even though my parents didn’t let me fly before I was 13, by 11 I had already learned ground handling and was practically already flying at the launch site, doing all sorts of activities. So, when I finally flew at 13, the sensation wasn’t completely new, but rather something very pleasant, like the confirmation of something I had been eagerly waiting for.
What moments make flying worthwhile?
Flying is worthwhile because of the freedom I feel and the landscapes I get to enjoy from the air. After so many years, the control I have gives me confidence and motivates me to keep improving. Also, achieving new maneuvers brings me immense satisfaction.
Your three top flying areas?
1. Maitencillo, Chile
2. Orgañá, Spain
3. Oludeniz, Turkey
What are you doing on a day that is not flyable?
When it’s not good for flying, I look for another activity to stay active, like going to the gym, surfing, or kitesurfing. I love all kinds of sports—motorbiking, paddleboarding, snowboarding, tennis, running, and more. I always enjoy learning something new, and right now, I’m especially into water sports. Since I live by the beach, I can practice them more easily.
Most important paragliding successes?
My biggest achievement was winning the Acro World Qualifiers 2024 in my first year of competing.
Why do you fly for ADVANCE?
Since I started paragliding, Advance wings have attracted me with their aesthetics and performance. Flying with them is a pleasant, safe, and enjoyable experience. The wing handles smoothly, giving me precise control. Additionally, their high-quality, durable, and sophisticated materials make me feel completely confident. The elegance of their designs further strengthens my choice. Now, competing with Advance is a dream I want to achieve, flying a to-notch brand altogether.
What is your favourite food?
My favorite foods are lomo saltado from Peru and carbonara from Italy. I love both dishes for how delicious and simple they are.
What is your favourite quote in life?
Life is better with your feet in the air.
Ismael's Equipment
