The Diamond Badge is the highest graded badge a glider pilot can achieve and thus represents the pinnacle of such badges.
The Diamond badge consists of three legs, or milestones which must be achieved by the pilot. The first leg is a height gain of 5000 metres or 16405 feet. The second leg consists of a 300 KM goal flight which must either be on a triangular or an out and return course. Finally a 500 KM distance flight makes up the final leg.
The Diamond legs clearly illustrate the difficulty required to reach this level and as such is only usually achieved by dedicated and experienced pilots. It requires stamina, skill and concentration in being able to keep the gilder in the air for such distances and heights.
The badge sits in the same family as the Silver and Gold badges in the sense that it is an internationally recognised badge issued by the FAI. Likewise it can be used in other countries as well as entering competitions.
A prerequisite of the Diamond Badge is that the pilot is a current Bronze Badge holder. This ensures the pilot is qualified to attempt the distance flight and also means the pilot has the relevant theoretical knowledge of the air.
Achieving the Diamond Badge represents a great accolade in the gliding world and the holder will be viewed as one of the top glider pilots within their respective clubs.
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