F3J / F5J Glider Flying Ashurst

Just got back from my first flat field winch event for F3J gliders and the self launching F5J gliders. We were kindly invited along by Bernie and the SRFC (Sussex Radio Flying Club). Its was a windy day, must have been blowing 25knts up above and from the NW. After the briefing winches sere set up and yellow marker tapes set 10 metres from a centre marker. We were lucky enough to have a host of skilled pilots and some from the British team to demonstrate the power, strength and agility of these beautiful goliaths of the sky. There were good thermals around and after a very quick (3 second) winch launch and an impressive 'Ping' of the top the gliders must have got to 300 / 400ft

The landings were just as Impressive. These huge gliders slow down to a walking pace thanks to some huge flaps and great piloting skills and at the last moment piled in to get nearest to the marker.

From our group we had Jack, Graham, Terry, Clint and Kevin Beale who was doing a splendid job flying (see video of him flying below).

I flew my electric Seagull K8b which to be honest struggled against the strong headwind and at times was facing into wind but flying backwards. Graham U did a sterling job flying his electric glider.

I got to meet Chris Foss and Ken Manley who I hadn't met for many years since I left the Gliding Club. Sorry just one more Video clip to show you. Here a glider winds itself up a Bunjee launch but its the landing I was Impressed with.

A big thank you to Bernie and all the guys that made the effort and making it a most enjoyable trip out.