After a weak front went through over night, the forecast gave the hope of some soaring with some sea air by mid-afternoon. We set up the launch point at the extreme east end to avoid the pinch point at the normal south east corner. All the solo pilots lined up to enjoy the winch launches. Simon Jordy was on standby for tugging but ended up retrieving gliders on the buggy, as there was no demand for aerotows.
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| Clouds to the north (Jill Harmer) |
Lines of cumulus developed a long way to the north with North Hill airfield under a beautiful blue sky, and one by one, pilots returned claiming poor launches -1100ft and masses of sink everywhere.
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| First gaggles (Rob Hender) |
It wasn't until 14:00 that the magic 'turn on' started accompanied by a slight change in wind. Andy Davey in his Libelle M was the first to make contact to the south, followed swiftly by Geoff Lawrence in K21, Pete Startup in 230 and Dan Hender in K6 DRE.
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| Dan in DRE (Rob Hender) |
The next tranche of pilots were Aston Key in LRD, John Borland in FAJ, Josh Funnell in DRE and Wyn Davies in W7 (on a second attempt) who all enjoyed long flights up to 4000ft.
Pete and Wyn enjoyed a few trips along a nice convergence line which set up between Tiverton and Watchford Farm.
A swift change of ends allowed the last few members to get airborne, but unfortunately too late for the soaring. Great to see everyone enjoying the social distanced fresh air. Thanks to all who helped make it happen. - J&P
