Last Club Outing of the Year at Beeding Bowl - Monday 30th December 2024

It was Scott T who initiated yesterdays gathering. We as a club endeavor to get as many members together between Christmas and New Year, more for a social gathering rather than the flying as the weather can be so unpredictable. The weather forecast was advertised as 13-20 mph South West wind, plus 8 and no rain.

Last Outing of the Year

Upon reaching the car park I surprised to find a car in a ditch surrounded with the police blue tape. Those of you who are familiar with the car park will be astounded to see a vehicle imbedded so far in the hedge.

View Looking North West

Two club members were already on the slope by the time I arrived, Ivan and Nick, I also met Russell in the car park who had a stash of models in the boot of his car. The weather was poor, it was dismal with low grey clouds and a substantial amount of moisture in the air and not much wind. To say the least the flying was marginal at best. Better pilots than me struggled with the conditions as the wind would drop without warning.

Ivan and Nick

Nick started the flying with his Dream Flight Weasel which flew well considering the conditions and Ivan was doing well with his Nano Flow glider. Russell started the session with his Ridge Runt and a Tomahawk Hacker, later followed by his Stan Yeo designed Wingbat 48. Scotty arrived with a Dream Flight Weasel and an Ahi, both ideal for the light conditions. 

Russell with his Models

I must say the star of the afternoon was without doubt Russell's Wingbat 48. It flew really well and also looks the part when in flight.

Star of the Afternoon - The WingBat 48

I also had the opportunity to meet up with 2 potential members George and Grant, both of which have decided to join the Club. As previously mentioned the Club has increased it's numbers by over 20% this past year alone. So, to keep the Club manageable we the Committee have decided to put in place a cap on club members, this will now be set at 60. Once this figure is reached a waiting list will be in place  to manage potential members.

Scotty's Models

In summary, a good end to the year despite not the best weather conditions being experienced over the past 12 months but we are all looking forward to the New Year.