Quick iReport from JK on the bus ride to launch on Day 2. (Yes, it's one of those rough riding Blue Birds.)The practice day (Sat) was overcast without much lift. The task was called off after the wind dummies got airborne and some virga approached. Most were suited up, so everyone that wanted to fly had a sled ride to Hunter LZ (now called the Bombout LZ - not to be used unless necessary). BTW, later that day convergence lift allowed some good distance runs that we saw from headquarters (HQ) below.
Yesterday (the first comp day) we woke up to clear blue skies and cool temps. The task for the Sprint (aka "kiddie pool") was a confidence-building task, although timing was important to make it. The thermals were good but sink in the valleys was prevalent too, and at times the thermals took a breather, leaving nothing for periods.
The task was to cross the valley from the Woodrat launch, west to Rabies, back to launch, then south to Hart's LZ - a poor wheat crop the assn. bought for the comp. The total distance was 19 km. I managed to squeak in with a straight flight on the last leg. I also managed to do it with a downwind landing. That wasn't because I was stretched. I misread the wind. When I realized my mistake, I was committed. Managed to stay on my feet though.
The full-blown Rat Race task was MUCH more difficult. Nikki charged and tagged the first thee waypoints. His story is pending...
The most memorable element of the day was thermalling with 50+ other pilots above launch, waiting for the start of the task. I hope this photo shows a taste of that. Coring a thermal is so fun!
Flight Info - Task 1
Congrats JK and Nick! Way to go and show how the monkey's do it! I would point out that you are also representing the AF--you should claim per diem!
ReplyDeleteI hope you all have great, safe flights out there! I'm with you, I love thermaling. I'm not so good at covergence though.
Please keep posting I will thermal vicariously through you all!
How did the B1 Nav do?
Duck