Tues 25 February

 A score of members agreed that the Wednesday forecast for rain and high wind justified moving club flying to Tuesday. The morning briefing confirmed that while there was potential for winch launches, it all depended upon how the field held up given the previous heavy rain. Several wanted currency or card checks, but we had three instructors, so all working gliders were pulled out. After a small delay when the Launch Control became stuck on the north side, flying started just after 11:00. 

Blue skies and thermals (Tom Sides)

 With a favourable west wind, winch launches were reaching 1400 feet, and thermals started and extended flights were on. Landing conditions were judged sufficiently challenging that a decision was made to hoist the blue card flag, but the general flying conditions just got better and better until flying was completed at 5pm. 25 flights is nothing to complain about in February. 

Puffy white clouds in February (Tom Sides)

It was a superb day. Those wanting spin checks checked that goal, but for most, the steady northwest wind, thermals and cloud streets allowed us to re-acquaint ourselves with soaring. Thank you Peter Smith, Glenn Turpin, Martin Woolner, and JB for your instructing work. It also must be noted that the soaring season was officially opened by Pete Startup with his three hour flight. 

Towing the Disco amd Launch Control (Tom Sides)

 

 After allowing the sun and wind to partially dry out the field, Peter brought the MF tractor over to tow the Silver Disco and Launch Control from where it was left earlier. Thank you as well to Vicki for coming in and feeding the troops on your day off. - Tom Sides