Dartmoor Gliding News - Sunday 5th October 2025

After storm Amy swept through yesterday, the Sunday Soarers were presented with a moderately strong breeze today with a cloudbase of around 2000ft. Only two visitors were due today, but we initially cancelled the one from Falmouth to save a wasted journey as the conditions were not suitable for trial flights.

The field was set up and a K13, Astir CS77 and K8 were taken to the east end launch point. First flight was myself in the Astir for a test flight after it had been rigged after the annual inspection.

Me getting ready for the test flight.

This flight proved conditions were indeed bumpy and beyond the K8. It was also decided that as the Astir pilots were mostly relatively new to type, only the K13 would be flying. Steve Fletcher took Phil Hardwick for a flight to get back into the air after his holiday.

Steve and Phil ready to fly.

Each of the student pilots gained valuable experience in flying in the conditions with steeper full airbrake approaches through the bumpy air. It was obvious that winter is on its way as several members were adorned in thick winter coats today.

George and Richard in winter coats.

One of the days visitors, Nicola Macrae did come to the club. This was to see if she could get in and out of a glider due to physical weaknesses. All was well and we hope to see Nicola soon.

After everybody had flown it was decided to pack the toys away and head home to earn some brownie points were applicable.

The Astir last into the hangar.

Some valuable experience was gained today. Thanks to Sean and Phil for winching. Also to all at the airfield today.

Peter Howarth