Sunday 5th August 2012

Despite the ominous looking clouds, a few hardy club members arrived bright and early, ready to fly. Under the watchful eye of Gareth Bird, a Full Cat Instructor from Lasham, the field was set up for the south-easterly wind with two K13's ready to fly.

Gareth in BVB ready to fly a visitor

The operation started with DMX flown by Martin Cropper conducting a one day course and BVB took a trial lesson with Gareth after which I had a flight with him. I was excited to get to fly with a different instructor as I always find that I learn something from them. My flight to regain currency with Gareth was no exception - with the rain showers coming and going, we looked at the effect of water on the wings. (Spoiler: the stall speed increases greatly!).

If you've ever wondered what it's like to fly in the rain, this will give you a clue

Following this, I took BVB for a solo flight. Roger Appleboom also managed to get airborne, furthering his experience with the less than favourable conditions.

Less favourable conditions indeed

At about 14:00, the weather took over and it was decided to call it a day. Soggy club members packed up the hangar and had a well deserved cup of tea sat next to the fire before leaving.

Many thanks to Nigel Williamson for winching throughout the day and to visiting instructor Gareth Bird for allowing us to fly this weekend! If you missed him, he will be back over the Open Day/Bank Holiday weekend at the end of the month

Richard Williamson