Dartmoor Gliding News - Sunday 2nd April 2023

After a report from the CFI on Saturday stating 'You will need a boat', there was little optimism that any flying would be possible today. A couple of the early arrivals and myself decided to do a pitch inspection to see what the conditions were like. Although in places the ground was soft, things were a lot better than any of us expected. We returned to the clubhouse for tea and coffee and discussed if we could operate.

It was decided to get a K13 out and see how things would be. I took a solo launch to see what conditions were like. Although only a 1000ft launch was achieved, the air was smooth with no problems on the launch or approach. When I returned to the launch point I was presented with this photo:-

Ground run track.

Based on this evidence I decided that no further flying would be done. My decision was based on the forecast for the coming week which gave generally dry conditions with little rain. Any damage caused today would only cause damage which would dry into hard ruts, possibly to then cause damage to aircraft over the coming weeks.

After packing away we returned to the clubhouse where some ground lectures were presented to the trainees in attendance today.

Gavin had noticed on Gliderpilot.net that another club were looking for a airbrake return spring for a K13. Colin rummaged around and found a likely candidate. A picture was taken and sent off to see if it was suitable.

K13 airbrake spring.

A frustrating nice looking sky.

So although we did get the toys out, it was definitely a day where preservation outdid enthusiasm, but positives were achieved. Thank you for all at the club today.

Peter Howarth