Dartmoor Gliding News - Sunday 9th August 2026

A light northwesterly breeze and rasp giving a possible 4 star rating, the prospects were for a good day flying. The K13, Twin Astir, K8 and Astir 77 were DI'd and taken to the east end launch point. There was a lot of activity amongst privateers rigging their aircraft. Andy Davey (Ventus CHG), Sean Westrope (Libelle CLM), John Osment (Cirrus JFA), Phil Hardwick (DG300 HME) and Ed Borlase (K6 EWO).

First trainee was Aiden Hughes. A couple of good circuits and a practice launch failure sees him progressing well.

Aiden getting ready for his flights.

Meanwhile duty BI Richard Roberts and Steve Fletcher had a flight in the Twin Astir ready for visitors to arrive.

Steve and Richard launch in the Twin.

Next trainee to fly with me was Misha Skochko who managed a soaring flight during which stalls with wing drop were practiced also sees him progressing well. The first visitor, Adam Earl arrived and enjoyed two flights with Richard.

Adam being briefed by Richard.

And receives his certificate.

Shortly after the second visitor arrived. Simon Wood enjoyed two flights, one slightly longer in the improving conditions.

Simon looking forward to his flights.

It was time for Richard and I to swap aircraft. Rowan Guest has been training in the |Twin One short flight followed by a soaring flight during which Rowan experienced his first spin training exercises. Richard took over the K13 to take the final visitor Derek Bond. Derek was supported by his family.

Derek and family.

Whilst all this was happening the privateers were launching. Andy Davey in his newly refinished Ventus flew for just over three hours in the East Cornwall and surrounding area. John Osment also enjoyed 1½hours in his Cirrus.

Andy launches in his Ventus.

Phil spreading his wings.

The other privateers all had flights of various durations, but not as long as Andy and John. Today Freddie Purkiss returned from his Army training and enjoyed three flights with me. A little rusty, but it was all coming back after the three flights.

Freddie settling back into the K13.

After a week away flying with the ATC at Upavon, Ed Nicholson was glad to get back into the K13 as well.

Ed happy back in a K13.

K13 soaring above the Twin Astir

And soaring with Ed in his K6.

After working on his K6 Viktor came to the launch point and flew the K8. Also after a stint on the winch John Smith flew the Astir 77.

Viktor launches in the K8.

Thank you to all at the club today. 33 flights and several soaring flights. A good day flying.

Peter Howarth