Dartmoor Gliding News - Saturday 16th November 2024

 Today was a cloudy day with light breezes initially from the south moving around to the west later. Although this would not excite the solo pilots it was a good training day.

A grey day

Instruction today was spearheaded by CFI Rick who had a short(ish) list for a change. First up was 14 year old Jamie Young who, after a successful circuit and practice cable break was sent solo for the first time. This is an big step for any trainee pilot which he will remember forever. The solo flight look perfect from our vantage point on the runway.

Jamie ready...

...and off he goes

A well controlled take off

And into the climb

Jamie receives his wings from CFI Rick.

We welcomed David Bishop for a One Day Course who enjoyed exploring gliding both on the ground and in the air.

David Bishop

The flying day finished a little early as we sought to avoid the on coming drizzle. The extra time was put to good use as the Puchacz was derigged ready for it's annual inspection and some planned upgrades.

Puchacz ready for it's annual.

There was another visitor today. A tawny owl had made itself at home in the launch hut tower where it spent the day asleep completely ignoring us. At the end of the day it just flew away.

Tawny Owl asleep in the control tower.

A great day with a first solo.

Steve