Wednesday 22nd February 2012

Our hopes of sneaking in a few early launches before the rain and gales arrived were shattered when some optimist went and set up the windsock. From that point, everything nose-dived weather-wise.

Undaunted, the determined band of regulars therefore applied themselves to various tasks, and later in the morning most of us reconvened in the clubhouse to discuss some briefing notes I've just drafted (with Don and Dave Jesty's help) covering DGS launch point, winch and ground equipment radio procedures. Clear and reliable radio communications are essential for the safe and efficient operation of any gliding club, and hopefully the end product of this exercise will help us to become more competent - and confident - in the use of radio.

In the clubhouse, our Field Treasurers once again found themselves immersed in earnest discussion with Chairman Steve about how to persuade members - and visitors from other clubs - who owe us money to settle their accounts.

Work-wise, Andrew and Phil spent most of the time in the hangar with John Bolt, negotiating the intricacies of the annual inspection of their Astir. Meanwhile Alan Holland engaged in some self-imposed penance for all the fun he had in the Zug last Sunday, by attempting a very fiddly repair to that glider's trimmer cable.

Outdoors, the only signs of life were occasional glimpses through the murk of Ged in the tractor, rolling the airfield.

A small but significant achievement today was when, with the help of a shoehorn, some Vaseline and words of encouragement from our lofty Chairman, the similarly lofty Steve Raine was eventually persuaded that he could actually fit into the cockpit of the K8.

Bob Pirie

No comments: