What a difference day makes! The forecast clearance arrived. Gentle breezes and clear blue skies. The early morning frost lead to some misting on glider canopies but the sun soon put paid to that.
We were flying from the west end of the airfield as, what breeze there was, had a little east in it. The only reminders of the wet weather was the very wet airfield. To preserve things we decided to operate without the normal launch point control tower as it was at the east end and moving it would have caused a lot of damage. Instead the bonnet of a Landrover complete with computer and handheld radio fulfilled the role.
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| The Swann family. Andrew in the K8, Mum, granddad Mike and little brother Hayden |
This was a busy day. First up was 14 year old Andrew Swann who converted to the K8 after a successful check ride with CFI Don. This was a little nerve racking for his mother who was attending the airfield for the first time and watched in amazement as Andrew roared off up the launch. Bob Pirie took care of a check flight for Stefi Guiu who returned to the club today after her Christmas break at home in Romania. She immediately claimed the K8 for some solo flying.
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| New member Ray SwinField |
Another check ride saw our oldest pilot John Blaskett cleared for solo flying again. New member Ray Swinfield, who is a lapsed but experienced pilot, undertook several flights and practice cable breaks. Last, but definitely not least, Mike Swann, Andrew’s granddad, started training with Don. Way to go Mike.
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| John Blaskett ready to go in the K13 |
Phew, was that all I hear you ask? Well no. While all the above was going on Don found time to test fly the Pirat which returned to the club fleet today.
Also, we entertained a cameraman and reporter from Westcountry Television who spent several hours on site filming and interviewing members for a story about 14 year old Andrew Swann qualifying to fly solo. This is due to air during the 1pm and 6pm local news spots on Monday 13th.
Flying finished as the sun got low in the sky and canopy misting became an issue. The toys were washed and put away and it was back to the clubhouse for tea and medals ( beer and tall stories actually ).
A very productive day
Steve
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