Dartmoor Gliding News - Sunday 10th September 2023

The forecast was for a light southerly wind veering south westerly as the day progressed. So after the early morning rain had cleared we set the airfield up to fly from the east end. A K13 and K8 were towed to the launch point.

First to fly with me was Matthew Stone. After a couple of launches the wind had backed to give us a tail wind, so it was time to change ends for the second time this week.

Windsock showing  an easterly component.

Matthew talking about his flight.

As we were changing end our first visitor arrived. Peter Cookson was greeted by duty IFP Hugh Gascoyne and was suitably briefed ready to fly. His flights were slightly delayed due to changing ends, but he really enjoyed the flight experience. Peter was keen to see the locality from a new perspective, snapping away with his smartphone as I described each ground feature. The conditions required moderate turns to prolong the flight.

Peter and Hugh ready to go after the delay.

And arriving back.

Peter receiving his certificate from Hugh.

As Matthew was the only trainee today, he was able to take another flight and experienced a high speed stall as part of his training.. Our next visitor, Thirteen year old Toby Irons arrived with his extended family. He enjoyed two flights, one of which was 21 minutes. Toby was the epitomy of the aviation enthusiast, and was a joy to fly with. I provided a commentary of the flight as we clambered up to 1700ft in the murky sky. The visibility was atrocious and so special emphasis on lookout was needed. Once briefed, Toby was the consumate hawk-eye in the front cockpit, picking out the K8 against the milky backdrop, giving accurate clock face references as he did so. I have no doubt he will progress to pilot status with ease!

Thumbs up ready tog from Toby and Hugh.

Landing Safely watched by his family.

Hugh presenting Toby with his certificate.

The last visitor of the day arrived. Alan Guest was given the safety briefings by Hugh and was soon ready to fly. Having made the trip to Brentor from Torquay, he was eager to get airborne. It was a pity however the conditions were deteriorating by this time, and so two short flights ensued. Alan may well be back to make the most of his three month membership.

Alan Guest squeezed into the front seat of the K13.

And off they go.

Alan receives his certificate from Hugh.

Ed Borlase and Gavin Short each took flights in the K8. The longest flight for flight of the day was Ed with 22 minutes.

Only a small group at the club today, but we entertained our visitors and all flew who wanted to. A special thankyou to Phil Hardwick who did the majority of the winching and chose not to fly.

Peter Howarth