Only 4 members turned up but we still had an enjoyable day. Not a day for that big XC with cloudbase not much more than 2,000′ all day but soaring to be had. We only huddled in the caravan a couple of times waiting for light showers to passed through (presented the opportunity for a nap for 1 person – no names…). Fortunately we were joined by a visitor from Heron (Paul Ginter who pops in periodically) and a TL. Richard G made an appearance to fill in holes in the hangar and had his arm twisted to take a flight. Chris B had his first sample of the Vega and took longest flight of the day honours with 26 minutes. A little later we had a cable, Puchacz and no one wanting to do the necessary. So, I felt obliged as DI to take a pop at Chris’s “record”. 40 minutes later pointed proved and enough money spent (have to admit it was very nearly only a short circuit).
Thu 5 Aug Task week
Well Tuesday was tough, the sort of day when out and return to Burbage was an achievement – some did achieve, and others enjoyed some local soaring.
Wednesday was declared a scrub due to the forecast, and yes, there was rain, in the form of heavy showers.
Today (Thursday)had promised to be good, but the nice little cumulus didn’t appear to plan – rather overcast with some bigger clouds embedded. Still, out-and-returns to Frome and Devizes were achieved (admittedly undeclared, but then declaring anything ambitious would have been lunatic). Lift was really good at times, but not very consistent.
More rain tomorrow, it seems.
Mon 2nd Aug – Task week
Colin said: We went soaring We went cross country. RIV-BIC-BUL-RIV. Two landed out, one got round. More tomorrow?
Before landing at Ilsley, Chris had already done RIV-BUL and rejoined us late launchers (it had gone flat for a while) for the RIV-BIC bit. Steve got to BIC and a little way back. Colin was also flying, presumably modesty forbad mention of who got round. James Hunneman took the Vega to Marlborough and Membury. Carol went somewhere too, but at the time of writing I don’t know details. Thanks to Paul, Paul, Ken and Alan for being ground ant retrieve crew.
Sunday 1st August
Congratulations to Nigel who converted to the Sport Vega for his first solo glass machine in his logbook. Earlier he practiced for a half hour solo in the K13. Claire also flew it for the first time.
Meanwhile, as it was somewhat quiet on the instructing front I had one of these, a true work of art you’ll agree:
Chris had cooked a giant fried breakfast earlier, this gave him the energy to show Carol how to fly a circuit in 383. Carol then had a go and of course showed Chris his favourite TPs, Devizes and Wantage for 107km.
Others managed some good soaring and so I declare Task Week open!