Dartmoor Gliding News - Sunday 29th March 2026

Firstly I must apologise for not writing a blog for Sunday 22nd March 2026. Today's weather would give us chance to fly, but an approaching front from the NW could curtail flying at some stage during the afternoon.

After a delayed start due to low cloud, it was action stations for the small group of attendees to finish setting the field up and start flying. Lance Whitehead was first to fly with me. On his second launch we had a launch failure which was turned into a demonstration of a land ahead eventuality. One for the memory banks Lance.

Lance receiving some information for the next flight.

After a small delay at the winch, we welcomed our visitor today. Mark Kessell hailed from Plymouth. This was a birthday present from his wife Jane who had previously flown with us when Mark had bought her a trial flight for her birthday. Mark enjoyed two flights with duty BI Phil Hardwick.

Sorry no photos as the Sunday Soarers were a little remiss.

Only one privateer rigged today. Viktor brought his immaculate K6 (the Red Bear) to the launch point and enjoyed two circuits as he gets used to this lovely aircraft.

Viktor in the Red Bear.

And returns smoothly.

Ed Borlase hadn't rigged his K6 today and was gifted a flight in the Red Bear. A little nervous about flying somebody else's pride and joy, but enjoyed the experience of flying another K6.

Ed at home in a K6.

Training continued with Misha Skochko and Aiden Hughes. Only two flights each as it was obvious the front and rain were approaching from the west. We just managed to get the toys safely back into the hangar before the rain arrived.

A big thank you to Sean who winched throughout and didn't manage to fly today. Only 12 flights, but most flew and enjoyed what the day presented.

Peter Howarth