Such events used to be widespread and some still continue. The 'International Birdman' competition has taken place in West Sussex since 1971. This one involves big prize money for serious 'flyers' but also attracts lots of people in fancy dress simply jumping into the sea, often for charity. The above advert suggests that a trophy was the only thing at stake at the Largo version but that, nevertheless, several 'flying craft' were expected to be on display.