Empty skies but not for long :)
Whilst the forecast was for light northerlies our waters told us it was likely to be more like fresh ones and so it panned out to be. After a visit to Perranporth Airfield for a chat with the ATC to keep a lid on things and each other "safe" it was off to St Agnes where a good number were already rigged with hangers and a few Paragliders were in the air in what were already brisk enough conditions.
Whilst Kaz rigged here new toy, Wills Wing Sport 2 135, with the aid of Phil L i popped the tandem together and Wyn D and Glen C tried their hardest to get away from the ridge. In fairness all the Para's made a great effort but the thermals were not quite working enough and the breeze a bit on the high side, still a few mini over the backs ensued.
Kaz gets a tip or two
With things now more in the hangies favour a couple of test flights on Kaz's wing to sort out the trim (can't wait to fly it more ;))soon encouraged more into the air and the fun began.
Casey (London) was down for the weekend and took the chance to go up on the hangy and in super conditions we had a ball just playing in the lift and chasing the odd thermal and seagull. Casey was a bit overarwed by the whole thing and it was a mixture of relief and elation when we came back in on top for a nice landing.
Casey's smile says it all
There was a good gathering of wings including visitors from the Condors with their Atos's and even Patrick B made an appearance getting back into the air after his long "break". Conditions steadily got better with the sea thermals kicking in giving some nice climbs to 1500' although the drift was quick enough. amazing how modern gliders can pull forward though even in the fresh breeze seeing us regularly thermalling back to the beacon before heading upwind to the cliff and arriving with masses to spare.
"ready" for her first flight on her new wing
Kaz was suitably nervous about flying her new wing but she plucked up the courage and was rewarded with a cracking flight which started with as good a launch as you will see before climbing out to the top of the stack! It will be interesting to see how her flying develops from here on.
Off and away in fine style
Sharing the air
Big Gray was delighted as Mark H (Condor) lent him various bits and pieces to try on his now seated topless and by the end of the day he was looking pretty much sorted, ideal, and be good to see him out with it putting in the airtime and hopefully the miles.
Kaz and Big Gray show both prone and "seated" flying
Having watched Kaz go through the concern of flying her wing I went through the same thing as Mark H offered me a go on his Atos, dry lips, nervousness and an unusual quietness overcame me as I walked (was dragged) to the front. Take off was fine in fact the whole flight was fine including the landing but I have to say it was a weird experience with a very detached feeling as the A frame wobbles around and nothing seems to happen. Yes I would fly it again and I am sure next time I would be a lot more relaxed and after a few hours would get in touch with it but it is very different from a flex wing ............
Suitably nervous I go rigid
As the thermals died away we packed our kit and headed to the Chiverton Arms for some refreshment before heading home. What a cracking day with everyone having fun and 10 hangies on the hill the trend continues.
Quote of the day "RELAX"
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