The gliders were readied promptly, and flying began with some initially short flights. However, the forecast suggested that good convection would develop, and this soon began to produce some longer-duration flights.
Several members rigged their gliders as it became clear that conditions were developing into a boisterous soaring day, with plenty of strong lift. John Allan and Callum Ellis found wave, allowing climbs to at least 7,000 ft.
The instructors worked their way through the flying list, producing some longer flights and, in particular, a very enjoyable flight for Jonathan Erskine with Mark in the afternoon convergence.
There was also a busy list of First Flights, resulting in many smiling faces under the supervision of Simon Jordy.
Congratulations to Arthur Lean on his first flight in the Junior, and also on his first flight of over an hour’s duration. Callum Ellis came agonisingly close to completing his five hours, with the sky letting him down after four hours and 58 minutes.
As the daytime team packed up, the evening flying volunteers, headed by Mike Sloggett, began flying their large group of visitors.
Thanks again to Mark and Steve for coming up and helping to make it such a productive and enjoyable flying day for all. Special thanks to Jeff Taberham for saving the day by offering to do a stint on the winch immediately after landing from a long soaring flight, at a time when all other winch drivers were either airborne or trying to be!
