The forecast in RASP had been uninspiring, but light southeasterly winds and sunshine were enough to ensure a sizeable and enthusiastic turnout on this Sunday morning.
Ground equipment and gliders were readied so promptly that Duty Instructor Simon Minson was able to commence briefing at 0900, ahead of the published time.
Flying began following the usual procession to the western end of the field, whilst several owners rigged.
There was a little more breeze than many had anticipated, which meant a red card due to crosswinds and a potential rotor in the lee of the approach end. The upside was that there appeared to be some lift at either end of the southerly ridge, permitting sustained flights for Dave Perriam, Glenn Turpin and Josh Howlett.
A slight shift in the wind prompted a change to a yellow card and seemed to kill much of the lift, resulting in several four-minute flights for a number of pilots, including your author.
Dan Hender rigged the club juniors’ Ka-6CR (DRE) for an aerotow following its annual inspection and the fitting of a new vario.
Callum Ellis brought his newly acquired LS4 (KLS) to the launch point for its first flights under his ownership, and John Borland flew his DG-300 (FAJ). Jill Morrison took her Libelle (JEU) for an aerotow.
Ian Mitchell, as afternoon Duty Instructor, joined Simon to fly more trainees.
At around 1630 conditions changed subtly again, and Simon Minson reported that there was an area of very gentle lift over the ploughed fields in the valley to the south of the field.
This provided a new lease of life to the day, and again offered the potential for some longer flights. I was very happy to be able to complete my first one hour soaring flight, and club Treasurer Tom Sides was equally impressed that it came on my fifth launch of the day!
It was good to see quite a number of new and returning junior members flying, and a substantial amount of training completed in sunny and occasionally challenging conditions.
Thank you, everyone for a memorable and varied day’s gliding. – Richard Lean
