Dartmoor Gliding News – Saturday 12th October 2013

The day started with low cloud, rain and drizzle, and a strong, gusty northerly wind. Lesser pilots might well have given up at this point. In fact, someone had already go the woodburner going. But CFI Don Puttock is made of stronger stuff. With his natural desire to fly and, egged on by our new gang of youngsters, the gliders were got out and prepared for the day.

Our gang of three,  Andrew, Saif and Peter. 
By midday the weather had improved enough for a start to be made even though there was still some drizzle in the air. The day rapidly improved, the wind calmed down while swinging around to the east, blue sky and sunny patches. Astonishing. By 2pm the weather had improved so much that I was able to take returning temporary member Kevin Yates on a 21 minute soaring flight in the first of the day’s thermals.

Kevin Yates ready to go soaring.
A possible wave induced cloud  in the evening sky
 The day remained soarable with an interesting mix of weak wave and some thermals. Best flight of the day was Matt Wiles who flew for 48 minutes in the K8, only returning to protect the remnants of his student budget. We finally stopped flying with the sun setting at around 6:30 and had just enough time to repack the hangar before dark.

A great photo of the launch point taken by Matt Wiles in the K8
Elsewhere The work on K7M G-DCLT continues. Today, the refurbishment of the cockpit edges and refitting of the canopy was completed. Thanks again John and David.

The end of a great day
A great day, inspired by the youngsters, from the most unlikely start.

Steve

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