Flytec - Day Five

Davis was doing is best “weather porn” for hang gliding pilots this morning at the pilot’s meeting. Strong lift, clouds, light winds, convergence from both coasts, and little chance of rain. I could hardly wait to launch!

However, moments before the rigid wing start time everything was pushed back 30 minutes since there wasn’t a sign of lift anywhere. The launch was pushed back another 30 minutes as we sat sweltering under our wings. Eventually the clouds started forming and the tugs started tugging. I was the first flex-wing to launch in my line; I wanted to escape the record heat on the ground.

Unlike yesterday, I had a good and uneventful start and proceeded south along Route 33 on the “ring around the swamp” tour. I picked a better climb at the first turn point and was once again running with the lead gaggle. The climbs were now getting strong and it was obvious to me that the western sea breeze was moving in. I kicked into high gear knowing that the lift along the western edge of the swamp might dry up.

I climbed to base after the second turn point and had a nice long run along the western edge of the Green Swamp heading north. I only turned a few times and was soon approaching the third turn point. That turn point was in the blue, already washed by the sea breeze. I snagged the turn point and headed home. I took one slow climb that I should have skipped, but I didn’t want to repeat yesterday’s short fall. (I gave up several positions for the certainty of being at goal). Once I had a safe margin I headed to Quest and goal. The flight is available online.

Dave Cameron landed at goal today, his first. Marilyn greeted him with a drink and Julie and I supplied the shouts of approval as he flew overhead. Many pilots, including Peter Tim, Linda, and Mark landed near the third turn point, victims of the sea breeze. (I took a few pictures of the late day clouds that formed over the flight park near sunset).