Friday 21 November 2008

Sutton Bank Expedition




The end to a near perfect week.




Sutton Bank Thursday 20th Nov 08

We awoke to very fresh westery winds giving promise to some challenging flights. G.Marshall had joined us. Unfortunately our K21 went u/s on us as the front canopy strut developed a crack preventing the canopy closing properly. Not to be beaten we obtained use of a club K21 and the DG-1000 giving some members another challenge. The day went well giving everybody another enjoyable day. The weather for the next two days was not not very promising for ridge flying so we packed up Friday returning before being possibly snowed in. In all the week was a great success with many wanting another expedition, to be planned as soon as possible.

Sutton Bank - Wednesday19th Nov 08

Today's weather followed the previous day's with north westerlies. Two more members had turned up, B.McLean and P.Hayward making a good opportunity for a site check. Mid-day the wind backed round to a fresh westerly making the flying much more interesting. Beating up and down the ridge really focuses you in improving your lookout. Even two or three gliders can make big demands on your work load. Eventually the low sun and misting canopies forced us to stop after a really rewarding day.

Wednesday 19 November 2008

Sutton Bank - Tuesday 18th Nov 08

Arrived late on Monday to some very low cloud. Next day the skies were clear for the prospect of some fine flying. The day was clear with high lenticulars within possible grasp. High tows throughout the day left us a little frustrated at not getting into wave but all enjoyed just getting use to a new site with new challenges. Five members flew P.Woodcock, M.Crook, P.Ward and even Don Johnstone managed to get solo, so not a completely wasted day. Looking forward to tomorrow.