I assumed the first day of the Flytec Race & Rally would be cancelled when I awoke to rain and slate gray skies. The forecast for increasing winds reinforced that idea. However, when a task was presented at the morning meeting and then clearing skies without winds appeared around noon I gladly had to change my mind. Most pilots had rigged and staged their gliders and when a pilots meeting was called as the launch window was about to open. I assumed we would get instructions on the new launch procedures or maybe a 30 minute delay to accommodate stragglers. However, Mitch described a rough tug approach, explained how difficult it is to tow in a west-northwest wind, and reminded everyone of the earlier forecasts for wind. He then stated the day had been cancelled. I was surprised, but not upset.
A small group of pilots suited up for flights and had a good time for a couple hours until the promised winds, probably reinforced with a sea-breeze, showed up. As far as I know, everyone hovered in without incident.
I thought we were staying local, but got a text message late in the afternoon saying we would be towing out of the
Marion County Airport in
Dunnellon FL on Monday. The airfield is large and provides a better angle into the forecasted northwest wind. Amy, Richard, Paris, and I will be driving north tomorrow morning.
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