Firle on Friday 16th July 2021.

 As the expected wind direction for Friday was to be slightly East of North, Firle Beacon was chosen as the flying site for the day. Upon arrival we were greeted with unlimited visibility in all directions, light winds, and gorgeous views all around and no need to wear a coat. A great day in all respects.

View to the North East

The turnout was exceptional with 9 Club members, 1 potential member and a colleague from Sussex Radio Flying Club (SRFC). This I think is the most members we have had at any one time for a very long time.

Participating were Rob S with the Club SAS Wildthing trainer who was instructing Gordon S who performed well and has continues to improve. Rob S also brought along his Mini Phase and Traceur glider. Robin A had his Phase 6 and the mighty Mefisto. Mark V brought along a rather stunning Topaz 2 which flew well. John I had 2 gliders 1 being a SAS Blob and the other a SAS Wildthing with a rather unique oriental colour scheme. Mark J’s collection included a Middle Phase, SAS Wildthing and his Phoenix 5 3D printed glider. Clive U from SRFC had a Sprite glider. Arriving a little later on was Nick G with his Phase 6. Michael K a potential new member was invited to join us with his Veron Vortex S100 that had not flown for many years. The first flight of this glider was a challenge as it seems that the glider could only make left hand turns. Once back on the ground the trims were rechecked and adjusted plus more aileron authority was added, subsequent flights were successful. Only at the end of the flying session it was noticed that a couple of cracks had appeared around the cockpit area. I took along my Dreamflight Ahi for its maiden flight. Being reluctant to just chuck it off the slope I took it to the crest and made a few exploratory flights so I could set the trims. When happy with the settings off it went, and it went well. Second flight was not so good as I tried the out the flaps and the glider departed from controlled flight. I managed to regain control, but the landing was rather hard on the left-hand wing tip. This resulted in a broken servo wire extension lead which needs to be replaced before the next flight. My SAS Wildthing still has limited nose up trim available, either I have the C of G incorrectly set or the servos need to be reset to give me more control movement.

Gordon S with the Club's trainer.

                                                          

Some of the models on show at Firle.

The star of the show without a doubt was Robin S with his “Lockdown” built HW-4 Flamingo by Chris Williams. This 1/5^th scale vintage sailplane with an impressive 3.5 m wingspan and length of 1.57m looked impressive both on the ground and in the air. Rob S was instrumental in launching this fabulous glider and with a magnificent heavy throw it was away. Robin S is a very competent flyer who controlled the Flamingo extremely well on its maiden flight. We all hope to see this fine glider taking to the skies again very soon. I have a vested interest in this model as a I have the same kit yet to build.

Robin S with his impressive HW-4 Flamingo

                                               

The pilot ready for launch

                                                                                                    

Rob S doing what he does best.

Most flyers departed Firle Beacon around midday, but some members pressed on despite the drop in wind strength. In summary, probably one of the best Club days we have had recently. My thanks go to all who came along and I look forward to our next outing.