An unusual open blue sky greeted North Hill members this morning. It was no surprise then that kit was all out ready to go by the time I arrived at 8:30 and flying commenced just after 9:30. However after setting up it became apparent that a strong 10-15knt crosswind from the north was present. This restricted some early solo pilots and forced a red card to be raised. This eventually was changed to a yellow flag.
As the wind strengthened mid-morning strong amounts of lift were reported by a 2000ft trial lesson. Cloud streets were seen running from north to south straight across the club.
As the wind strengthened mid-morning strong amounts of lift were reported by a 2000ft trial lesson. Cloud streets were seen running from north to south straight across the club.
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| Cloud streets (Will Stainer) |
Soon after a flurry of private gliders were briskly launched with many managing to get away for some local cross country flying. With soaring conditions improving many members enjoyed some long flights averaging around 40-60 mins. Phil Morrison and I managed to chase down Matt Wright in his shark but we were not brave enough to follow him as he passed over the M5 towards Tiverton.
The trial flights were flown by Paul Summers and Roly Clarke with the help of duty tug pilot Pete Harmer.
The trial flights were flown by Paul Summers and Roly Clarke with the help of duty tug pilot Pete Harmer.
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| Aerotow (Will Stainer) |
Sadly the lift did not continue all day and towards 4:30pm simulated power and launch failures were carried out. Kit was packed away around 6pm. Overall a challenging day but at least we got some lift. - Will Stainer
