Sunday 7 July 2024

Itford Hill - Saturday 6th July 2024

It's been a while since the Club arranged a visit to this slope and we were not disappointed. In my opinion I consider it to be one of the very best slopes we have in Sussex, especially for basic flying training and of course the magnificent views of the South Downs. I may be biased as I conducted most of my initial training on this slope under the guidance of our club instructors.

Another reason for the outing was to meet up with two potential members, Nick and Sam both were thoroughly nice chaps and I do hope they decide to join our club. Over the past two years we have had a number of individuals enquire about club membership. Usually these are chaps who have past experience but have not flown recently and at the other end of the spectrum is our newest member Gary who is an enthusiast and will require some instruction, he came along this morning to watch. I am pleased to say that in today's environment our small club is going from strength to strength. We now have 48 members.

The weather provided us with excellent lift from the 35 MPH plus wind speed and almost clear sky's. However, I think the windspeed was at the top limit of my SAS Wildthing and sometimes the landing was problematic. 

Another club member was present, Paul H was flying his Dammit glider and considering how lightweight it is coped very well with the prevailing conditions.

We spent about two hours on the slope which allowed me to brief our potential members on the workings of Slope Soaring Sussex and also gave me the chance to fly my Wildthing. 

Paul and I decided to call it quits and make our way back down to the cars. Just as we got to the lay by the heavens opened. 

In summary, a very good morning's flying and hopefully two new club members in the future. Already looking forward to our next outing. 

Monday 17 June 2024

Skylarks and Poppies - Beeding Bowl Sunday 16th June 2024

It may be premature of me but as I stood on the top of the bowl this morning looking westwards I could just about see Summer coming. The day started a little overcast with threats of rain showers moving in during the late morning. However, we were extremely lucky as the expected rain passed us by. I arrived around 9.30 and understand due to roadworks and road traffic collisions in the local area some members took over one and a half hours to reach the bowl and it was the same for the drive home. There's dedication to the hobby for you. Today, was also an opportunity for me to meet two potential club members, both Tony and Gary had the chance to meet other club members and explore the dynamics of slope soaring. Club members attending today were Nick V, Scotty T, Paul H and myself. Early flights were very good with exceptional lift being available and as the morning progressed the weather improved significantly to the extent that we had Skylarks singing above us and poppies in the fields behind, almost a usual beautiful summers day but the wind still had a bit of a chill in it.

View South West

Poppies in the fields behind the slope

I must admit it's been a while since I have been out on the slopes for various reasons but it was great to meet up with the chaps and have a good catch up.

Poor old Scotty had to complete the walk of shame to collect his model from the field directly behind the slope as the wind caught his PSS Me163 Komet, luckily no damage was caused to the model and access to it was easy. 

Recovery of Scotty's Me163

No Damage

Nick V took part in a personal spot landing contest, we understand that he was an aircraft carrier pilot in a former life so decided to catch both arrestor hook cables at the same time. Also, no damage was done to the model. The only damage was to Nick's pride, we also think if he had had his car boot open at the time he could just about have got it inside his car. He also flew his Middle Phase today.

Nick V in launch mode with his Middle Phase

Nick's Wildthing caught in the barbed wire

Paul H had an awesome morning's flying his recently repaired Dammit glider. This model really goes fast in a good blow.

In summary, now the weathers seems to have turned a corner it is hoped that we will be able to get out more over the next few months. A great morning's flying with excellent company. See you guys soon.