Following the blue skies and a little soaring on Wednesday, as the week progressed the RASP forecast for Thursday got better and better, so that there was a reasonable expectation of a half decent flying day. Well we understand that RASP is just a forecast and doesn’t actually direct the weather but mist, drizzle and the infamous disappearing Beech tree greeted a good number of expectant flyers!
The boundless optimism of glider pilots prevailed and the ground equipment was rolled out, winch and launchpoint setup, cables run out, two K21’s, one Junior, and the Perkoz DI’d and a briefing conducted. The Beech tree re-appeared, the misty dampness cleared but the cloudbase stubbornly stayed low. An early lunch was agreed so we would be ready for the anticipated improvement (more glider pilot optimism).
 |
| Mike and Dave - weather check (Mark Layton) |
After lunch we had convinced ourselves that there was an improvement so a met flight was prepared. Mike Sloggett launched with Dave Cowley (great to see him back after a long period away from the club). Well !! now we have the disappearing glider trick. At around 600ft Mike had to pull off due to low cloud and make a nice small circuit and land. At this point with no prospect of an improvement we realised we were beaten, so all the kit was packed away ready for a better day. Thanks to Mike Sloggett for trying.
However, not all was lost. - Mike conducted briefings for two newer members Ian and Josh, Vicky provided great lunches, Robert's Astir was rigged and Ian and Josh had a useful session on the simulator. - John Borland
