Classic looking day but not many members around to start the day. Pete Smith took the first launch setting off on a mission to take advantage of the liberated Lyneham airspace, returning 4 hours later mission accomplished. Meanwhile back at the ranch (er, airfield) mixed fortunes with modest launches in the cross wind meant some got away whilst others returned. Some terrific climbs (10 up reported, 6 on the averager was the best I saw) and some height eating sink. Nigel and I took JMX to 5,400′.
Few more members appeared in the afternoon – in time to watch the rain approaching, narrowly missed us but killing the lift.
Wednesday 1st June
The reasonably promising sky filled in once the toys were out and we were ready to play.While the rest of us were pounding short circuits Bob B soared away for an hour. He returned to the airfield with the words of advice taken from a 60’s pop song – “hang on to what you’ve got”. The rest of us failed to find anything to hang on to. Mid-afternoon I decided to take a launch (in the LS3) in order to get to the other end of the field where my trailer was. It took over 2 hours to reach the other end. Lots of scratching for the first hour then things started to get easier. Trevor to longest flight honours with 2:36 in his Jantar with climbs up to 3,500′.
Open day
OPEN DAY A GREAT SUCCESS
Open Day was a great success. The weather was great – dry, mostly sunny, and warm despite a keen northeasterly wind – actually, the wind was ideal, giving us great launches. People wanting to find out more about gliding and experience it for themselves arrived steadily all day, never allowing us time to twiddle our thumbs yet never having to form a long queue. We hope to see them again soon.
Thanks to all the club members who played their various parts – instructors, winch drivers, retrieve drivers who are always needed, and those helping with people with parachutes and seat harnesses, and those who put out the posters and leaflets. A special mention for Claire who kept track of who was next to fly and making sure they did; also of course Stephen and Catriona who organised the whole event and advertising.