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| Calm before the storm (James Hood) |
It was great to see an enthusiastic Saturday crew get to work to beat the weather. The day started with a strong westsouthwest wind with a 1000ft cloud-base stopping full-height launches. The first three flights were charged at a discounted rate due to launching before 10 am! Rowan Smith (Duty Instructor) and John Pursey got to work on the list of training and card check flights.
Dan Hender (red one) gained the longest dual flight of the day by enjoying some ridgy thermally stuff. He'll need to be taking his lunch with him soon. Andrew Logan, Robert Lee and Mark Wallis all renewed their card ratings, ready for the forthcoming soaring season.
As the day continued the cloud-base rose allowing for 1700ft winch launches. The wind also went around to southsouthwest creating lively approaches and a blue card promotion.
David Clements, John Pursey and James Flory enjoyed junior flights with David Clements taking the crown for the longest flight of the day (30 mins). Ruth Comer had a real cable break and there was a short delay whilst a crew spliced the rope. Once fixed Ruth and John Pursey enjoyed playing in the dynamic sky.
Just as the afternoon kicked in, so did the harsh approach turbulence and Phil Morrison (afternoon Duty Instructor) called time and the kit was packed away.
A great sporty morning with 24 flights and 3 hours 40 mins total flight time, 3 card checks signed off and plenty of smiles had, all in short day. We most certainly maximised the opportunity of sky fun.
Additional thanks to Richard Harris for repairing the winch communications. - Rowan Smith
Dan Hender (red one) gained the longest dual flight of the day by enjoying some ridgy thermally stuff. He'll need to be taking his lunch with him soon. Andrew Logan, Robert Lee and Mark Wallis all renewed their card ratings, ready for the forthcoming soaring season.
As the day continued the cloud-base rose allowing for 1700ft winch launches. The wind also went around to southsouthwest creating lively approaches and a blue card promotion.
David Clements, John Pursey and James Flory enjoyed junior flights with David Clements taking the crown for the longest flight of the day (30 mins). Ruth Comer had a real cable break and there was a short delay whilst a crew spliced the rope. Once fixed Ruth and John Pursey enjoyed playing in the dynamic sky.
Just as the afternoon kicked in, so did the harsh approach turbulence and Phil Morrison (afternoon Duty Instructor) called time and the kit was packed away.
A great sporty morning with 24 flights and 3 hours 40 mins total flight time, 3 card checks signed off and plenty of smiles had, all in short day. We most certainly maximised the opportunity of sky fun.
Additional thanks to Richard Harris for repairing the winch communications. - Rowan Smith
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| Pete Bennett and Jill Harmer at BGA Sporting Conference (Rachel Edwards BGA) |
Meanwhile in Nottingham, Jill and Pete Harmer were joined by George Sanderson and Pete Bennett attending the BGA Sporting Conference. There was a wide range of interesting talks on airspace, instrumentation and weather including a great sales pitch for Denbigh by Chris Gill. There was also a good selection of new toys to play with. Congratulations to Pete Bennett who has been elected onto the BGA Executive Committee. - J&P
