The day started out with spitting rain and a lively north easterly wind. The course members assembled in the clubhouse at 8.30 for the briefing, where it was established that most were eager for cable-break practice! The gliders were brought out of the hangar and while the Daily Inspections took place there was a brief stop to monitor the rain - and let Mark have his breakfast.
Once the rain had slightly reduced, flying began. The first 2 launches of the day resulted in cable breaks, and so the flying was paused while the rope was re-spliced by Paul Medlock. Flying resumed until lunch, where Vicki served a lovely chicken and rice meal. Benjie soloed for the second time after lunch, with Luke also re-soloing after a break of a few months.
Benjie on 2nd and 3rd solos (Mike Sloggett)
However, the misfortune of the morning's issue with the cables continued, as the nose wheel of KEK went flat - leading to the tyre needing a replacement. Dave Perriam and Paul Medlock swiftly arrived to replace the tyre, allowing flying to continue.
Dave and Paul working on the nosewheel (Lily Sanders-Page)
The longest flight of the day was 12 minutes flown by myself (Lily) with Mark Courtney in the back, achieved despite a lack of promising weather.
Thanks to all the helpers and the instructors Mike Sloggett and Mark Courtney for making the day possible. - Lily Sanders-Page
