The early promise of a calm, sunny day with some solo flying failed to
materialise. Although the sunshine remained, the wind strengthened to a stiff
southerly with a slight easterly component. The latter made for challenging
flying with severe turbulence on the approach at the west end of the field, and
practically nothing in the way of lift.
As the morning progressed our fickle
southerly, as unpredictable as ever, gradually swung round by a few degrees to
give itself a westerly component. This resulted in a change of ends after lunch.
A little more comfortable, but as the skies clouded over, the lift was still
elusive. However, aided by our intrepid instructors, throughout the day, we
managed a good number of dual flights - our skills were tested to the limit, as
no doubt were our instructors’ nerves. Definitely a challenging day!
Overall, in
spite of the unpredictable weather during the week, we agreed that it had been
an outstandingly successful course with many goals achieved in the limited time
available for flying. Thanks must go to the instructors, Martin and Stuart, and
to the helpers David, Alan and James; all of whom, despite busy lives,
generously gave of their time. It was greatly appreciated by all the course
participants.
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| July Course (Jill) |
One of the abiding memories for all of us will be the friendly
atmosphere that developed between us. - WWF
Enthused by the prospect of a southerly wind and a tug pilot, Matt and James rigged M5 and ENW and prepared for a trip to the seaside. James took the short straw and launched first, having arrived overhead the cliffs........
......he gently let down to 1200ft to find the wind was just a little light and east to make the full run work, so he settled for a south easterly facing hill for a couple of hours.
Meanwhile Matt had set off, but turned back as he decided that the short run would be too tricky for them both to stay airborne and set off with the trailer instead.
Enthused by the prospect of a southerly wind and a tug pilot, Matt and James rigged M5 and ENW and prepared for a trip to the seaside. James took the short straw and launched first, having arrived overhead the cliffs........
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| Overhead Beer (James) |
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| James ENW over the sea - (James) |
Meanwhile Matt had set off, but turned back as he decided that the short run would be too tricky for them both to stay airborne and set off with the trailer instead.
