With the forecast for a mostly cloudless sky with light north to north west breeze the day was set for a good flying day. Sometimes in a light northerly breeze the north ridge on the edge of the airfield provides some soaring opportunities. This is counterintuitive, you would expect a stronger the wind to be better but in this case it is not so.
Arriving at the airfield after my early morning work, the preparations for flying were well underway. Monthly maintenance items were taken care of, gliders ready, winches, radios and launch point all set up. The start of flying was a little delayed by canopy misting in the clear but very cold conditions but soon we were underway.
 |
| Adrian Irwin is congratulated by Instructor Ged after his first solo |
Instructor Ged Nevisky had a full day of training to deliver. Today’s training highlights were provided by Adrian Irwin who, after a successful practice cable break flew the K13 solo for the first time. After a successful 2nd solo in the K13, Adrian took advantage of the benign conditions and converted to the K8 competing another successful flight with a stylish looking circuit.
 |
| Adrian is focussed on his conversion to the K8 |
We welcomed one visitor today, Eric Whitley who enjoyed a couple of flights in the K13 with Introductory Flight Pilot Rick Wiles.
 |
| Eric Whitley and RIck Wiles |
And what of the solo flying? Well after a couple of pilots had completed circuits in the K8, I launched it to explore the ridge and enjoyed 14 minutes wafting around in the buoyant conditions ,mostly around 5-600 feet before returning to the airfield to let others try it for themselves. This definitely stimulated the interest of the solo pilots as this was followed by several flights around 10 minutes or so. Great fun. For those who think this must be a misprint, yes it was me flying the K8, an aircraft type which last appeared in my logbook about 15 years ago. I must say that the club’s current K8, G-CGDK, is absolutely delightful to fly.
 |
| The K8 was kept busy today. Here club treasurer Steve Raine is ready to add to the club funds |
 |
| Always keen to fly, Chris Jones |
Unfortunately, the flying programme ceased prematurely after canopy misting became a serious issue in the late afternoon.
What a great day!!!!
Steve
No comments:
Post a Comment