Flying Report 9 Jul 22

With the thought that today is “Bald is in” Day, for those who are challenged in the hair department, although this is sometimes referred to as Resting (the period when hairs are shed from the follicle), it didn’t take long to crown (sic!) a popular winner from a wide range of entries!

It was clear from the forecast that it was to be a blue sky day and so it proved.  It was hot and dry with a brisk NNW.  The key to finding a thermal was to take a high tow and then head for the known trigger points.  Some were more successful than others but everyone got a good trip.  Hog of the day went to Ian G with a trip of 3h 16mins

Lifeblood of all clubs are new members and we were delighted to welcome Toby Jones, a Commissioned Chaplain with the Royal Army Chaplains’ Department. Toby has a Bronze Badge, XC Endorsement, as well as Silver Distance and Height.  We also welcomed Sian Howes. (Air Cadets Adult Staff) who also has some previous flying experience.  Welcome both and we look forward to seeing you out on the airfield.  Was it a coincidence that R35 with the vicar on board claimed the best height today?

In line with the recently published changes set out in the club CORs, this was the first day on which we conducted parallel landing on the grassed area beside the launch point. It is clear that this has a number of advantages not least in allowing the flexibility to perform parallel landings and launches, in tyre wear and the risk of punctures on the abrasive runway, and in wear on the aero-tow rope.

So whilst we were landing on the grass, Jack Haynes prepared to take Dad Colin for a spin in R38 – that sort of captive audience flight when you need to wheedle something out of Dad.

Finally, and having only recently returned to flying after a long break, it is congratulations to Sophie on re-soloing.  Sophie will soon be another pilot looking for a seat in R66.