Dartmoor Gliding News-Wednesday 24th February 2016

Today’s weather forecast had been looking promising for several days. Tuesday would had been a wonderful thermal day ( the first of the year ) but we don’t fly on Tuesdays. Wednesday dawned with a blue sky and a light NE breeze. Ah, east in the wind, so a wave day then. Well no. Right from the start the atmospheric soundings had ruled that out, but that would leave things clear for some thermal development.

Cleaning the hangar apron

It took a little time to sort out the airfield. Turning the winch around and towing it to the east end was a tricky task with the airfield still very soft. The gliders were got ready and the hangar apron was cleared the mud and stones washed onto it throughout the winter.

Towing the K13 back under a blue sky

The after several circuits the K13 was manned by Ged and Barry who went soaring for 31 minutes, the best flight of the day. A little later, Alan Holland soared the K8 for 21 minutes only returning to let others have a go in what he described as entertaining conditions. Everyone who wanted to fly did so and just after 5pm the gliders were returned to the hangar to allow the assembled members a chance to warm up after the bitter conditions at the launch point.

Best flight of the day goes to Ged and Barry in K13 G-CHXP

A very special thanks must go to Heather who worked hard all day. She started by cleaning the clubhouse, followed by helping to clear the hangar apron after which she drove the cable retrieve for the rest for the day.

A great flying day at last.

Steve