The actual weather was not as forecast, there was very
little wind from the West. However, a club member already at Itford confirmed
that it was just about flyable. On the way up to the top I heard and spotted my
first Skylark of the year. Spring is only just around the corner.
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| Looking West |
Upon getting to the top and having a few flights it
could only be considered as marginal flying conditions. There was some lift but
also a lot of sink, especially to the south of the slope. As the morning
progressed the sun eventually came out and blue skies appeared and thankfully the
wind strengthened. Club members attending today were Paul H with his modified
Lidls glider and a rather nice RAF Red Arrows Hawk glider (See photographs
below).
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| Paul H in Launch Mode |
His Lidls glider continues to impress as did the Hawk which flew very
nicely. I brought along my old and battered SAS Wildthing and I must say that
my landings are now getting much better. Kevin M flew his SAS Widthing and
enjoyed the morning until he managed to park his glider on 2 trees simultaneously
an outstanding feat of airmanship. His FMS Easy Trainer remained earth bound as
the weather conditions did not suit it. Robin A arrived on his electric bike
but alas with no glider, he just came along to see what we were up to.
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| Tony's SAS Wildthing |
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| Erwin 5 - Star of the Morning |
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Kevin's Models
|
Mark J
expertly flew his SAS Wildthing but the star of the show was without doubt his
Erwin 5 which was outstanding, photos below. Mark also brought along a friend
of his, Michael H who is a potential new member. Mark gave him the opportunity
for some stick time employing the buddy buddy system using the Wildthing. I must say that I really enjoyed
the morning on the slope and my thanks go to all my fellow club members for
their company and good banter.
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| Mark J in Launch Mode |
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| Erwin 5 - Flaps down to Land |
