.. wrote:

I went for a ride in a glider many years ago and was immediately taken with
the whole experience. I have always wanted to fly and now have the time to
do it as I am finished with my skydiving career. Before I sell my rigs I
wanted to ask a question. Do any of you wear pilot rigs? Before I trade
some gear for a pilot rig....what is the reality of actually getting out of
a glider if you have a structural failure or something catastrophic? I am a
realist and can accept the fact there are inherent risks up there believe
me, but I don't want to buy a rig if it's a mute point. Do any of you wear
rigs? Thanks for the advice.

I don't have the statistics, but there are many cases where the pilot's life
has been saved by using the chute. There are also many cases where the
chute, as you suggest, may not help you; such as a low altitude spin,
incapacitating mid-air, etc. As has already been mentioned, wearing a
chute is common and required in SSA sanctioned and other contests.

Regards,

-Doug