Saturday 12th February 2011

The day started with thick fog, but, with the promise that this would soon clear, the airfield was readied for the day; the winch was positioned and the aircraft were inspected and taken to the launch point.

Into the mist

And, sure enough the fog cleared to reveal a beautiful blue sky. All the early flights were training or check flights as the assembled members took advantage of the three instructors on site today.

Andrew Carter and Richard Williamson both converted to flying the K8 single seater. Judging by their smiles this was an enjoyable experience. Well done

Andrew Carter, first time in K8

Richard Williamson, first time in K8

We welcomed back club member Andrew Beaumont who has spent the last couple of months in self enforced exile in Mauritius. He regained his solo status after a suitably challenging check flight ( well done ). He did struggle with the temperature today as he has spent 2 months with temperatures above 30C. We were all suitably sympathetic.

The formation of cloud streets signalled the arrival of thermic conditions and the fleet launched with almost indecent haste. Pilots enjoyed the surprisingly buoyant conditions for half and hour or so until the cloud collapsed and dropped quite heavy rain across the airfield area. This brought all the gliders back to the runway where they were treated to a perfectly semi-circular rainbow. After the shower cleared away the conditions continued to be somewhat soarable for most of the afternoon.

Rainbow over the launch point

This was a really good day.

Steve