3 SAS Wildthings go Wild at Itford Hill

Another spontaneous decision to join up with Mark J and Kevin M at Itford Hill this morning. I arrived at the layby around 10 and commenced the long walk up the slope. Mark J was well ahead of me, and we both met up with Kevin M who was hiding in the bushes trying to keep dry as a rather large rain shower passed overhead. Conditions were very good with excellent visibility and a good winds, but it was cold. 

Flying started well but Kevin’s Wildthing seemed very twitchy in the conditions. It was decided to remove some weight that was added last time his model flew. The results of this worked well and a little re-trimming did the job. Kevin continues to improve, and he achieved considerable stick time today. One of his landings resulted in a loose fin, reminded me of one of my landings last week. I continued to practice circuits and landings, happy to either go left or right now. Landings still need more practice. 

Mark J was happy giving both of us guidance and instruction which was really appreciated. The highlight of the day was without doubt Mark J performing a “touch and go” followed by hand catching his model. If I wasn’t there, I would not have believed it happened. We spend a good hour and a half before being joined by a chap with his Peregrine Falcon using and EDF powered wing to exercise the bird. After another few launches, we decided that it was getting a little cold and went home.

In Sum, a successful day with Kevin improving greatly, me getting some circuits and landing practice in and Mark trying to get the both of us to fly better, which I do believe he did. Thanks, Mark, for your efforts today.