With a highly promising forecast from RASP, expectations for Saturday were understandably high. The outlook proved too tempting to resist, and Josh had pre-booked the Junior with the intention of attempting a 50km flight to The Park. Word of the forecast favourable conditions spread quickly, resulting in a busy and lively clubhouse. Among those in attendance were two junior members visiting from Brentor, along with several new members keen to experience gliding first-hand.
In preparation, K6 DRE was rigged —many thanks to those who helped get it ready. Private owners also arrived early, rigging or pulling up to the launch point with hopes of making the most of what was forecast to be an excellent soaring day.
However, the weather had not developed as anticipated—at least initially. The morning remained stubbornly overcast, suppressing thermal activity and leaving many gliders unable to stay airborne for long. Early flights proved underwhelming, and both private owners and club flyers were left somewhat disheartened by the gap between forecast and reality.
After a break for lunch, however, the day took a welcome turn. As the cloud cover began to lift and the sun finally appeared, thermal activity improved significantly. Pilots who had earlier struggled were now launching again—this time with far more encouraging results.
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| Well done Joel 2 hours in K6 DRE (Ivan Roulson) |
By mid-afternoon, soaring conditions had transformed. Pilots were staying aloft for extended periods, with many enjoying long and rewarding flights. Joel Roulson notably achieved his first full soaring hour and carried on for a second in the K6, having an excellent flight, clearly relishing the conditions and the opportunity. There were also successful cross-country flights from Pete Startup and Ron Johns, with Ron’s being the longest flight of the day—an impressive 5 hours and 6 minutes.
Pete Startup 230 completed 301km NH2- Crediton Station -Mottisfont Station-NH2
"Trainspottin'. Despite early gloom at the overcast sky it turned out to be a nice day. Went too early but the Cu embedded in the overcast worked ok. Slow in Devon to start with and a bit soft coming back over the Levels later but the bit in the middle was nice." - Pete Startup
Ron Johns with Trevor Russell 711 completed 369km NH2 - Candover Church - Didcot -NHL
"So grey to start but seemed to work , good run until re crossing levels on return . Trevor’s longest flight . Great day out !" - Ron Johns
Josh Howlett had two attempts to get away in the Junior (but probably too early) and helped out on the winch all afternoon.
Across the fleet, a total of 56 hours were logged in the air, with many individual flights reaching or exceeding 30 minutes, an hour, and even two hours. It was a remarkable turnaround, and the earlier frustrations were soon forgotten as the day evolved into a thoroughly enjoyable and productive one for most.
Many thanks to all who contributed to the day’s operations, including those who helped with launching, rigging, and providing a warm welcome to our visitors and new members. It was a fine example of how perseverance and teamwork can turn a slow start into a memorable and successful day at the club. - Joel Roulson
