The day began under a shroud of persistent mist, delaying our first launch until 12:20. Despite the slow start, the day was marked by a great turnout, with many MEF (Mechanics Endowment Fund) students eager to take to the skies and kickstart their gliding passions. With a large number of members present, the camaraderie was palpable as we geared up for the day's activities.

Congratulations Laura

A round of hearty congratulations was in order for Laura, who, pending confirmation by the British Gliding Association, is set to become our newest BI. Laura joined our club just last year and is now ready to inspire and guide many aspiring glider pilots on their first flights with us. Well done to Laura for her remarkable achievement, our 3rd female BI.😍 Later in the day Laura picked up on her aerobatics practice in ASK21 (R22).

Flight Activities

Our day began in earnest with two BIs, Malvern and Jason, taking to the skies. Malvern flew with Nick in R46, while Colin took Jason in R22.

Next we welcomed RAF Reservist Dave. Dave lives Tamworth way so we were his nearest RAFGSA club. He turned up for one trip, then decided to take two with Nick in ASK13 (R46) and we have a suspicion that we might see him on a future occasion. Glad you enjoyed the day Dave and thanks for your kind words.

Meanwhile, after a check flight with Colin, Connor, our "Big Scottish man," converted to R66, affectionately known as the "concrete swan," and celebrated his first solo in a single-seater. Connor’s journey is truly inspiring, having started his gliding adventure as an MEF student from Cosford in October 2022 he went solo in 2023 and then flew in the French Alps on the RAFGSA exped in 2024. Connor says that his rapid progress to solo flight stands as a testament to his dedication and also the support provided by our club.

The low cloud base and poor visibility meant the day never fully got going, with weak thermals making it challenging to stay aloft. Despite this, ASK 18 (R43) and ASK 21 (R22) managed to find some lift over the airfield, though no one ventured far.

In the midst of these activities, Will, escaping under cover from child-minding duties, took MEF student Raul for a couple of flights. Raul’s enthusiasm and Will’s expert guidance made for productive and enjoyable sessions.

Jack also spent time getting to know R66, taking two trips in the concrete swan. His growing familiarity with the glider is setting the stage for more advanced flights in the future.

Annual Instructor Revalidation Checks

As the day drew to a close, the last launches included annual instructor revalidation checks with Colin and Ian.

Hanger Games

Torrential rain and thunderstorms abruptly ended the flying activities, driving everyone to the hangar. There, for a bit of light-hearted entertainment and banter, members engaged in the annual game of rigging EEO, where everyone hilariously had the "right" answer.

Conclusion

Congratulations once again to our new BI Laura and to Connor for his impressive solo flight.

Despite the delayed start and the weather challenges, it was a cracking day out, and we look forward to more flying adventures with our ever-growing community. The camaraderie, shared experiences, and passion for gliding shone through, making it a memorable day at RAF Shawbury GC.