Wave, Thermals and Loops
An unusual phenomenon was predicted in the forecast today… flyable weather! Not only was the weather flyable, wave was also predicted for the area, drawing those daring to brave the gusts to Shawbury.
With both K21’s and R66 DI’d and extricated from the hangar, some of the private owners were keen to entertain the predicted wave with EEO, 243 and JMJ (former R46) making an appearance outside the hangar. The morning briefing eventually commenced once we rounded up our trade envoy Kim Al Swan, whom, to no surprise, we have withdrawn from lands far away due to recent headlines! The brief suggested showers would pass through early, but a clear afternoon was ahead, with increasing gusts being the only unwanted third wheel.
…and despite and almost two years lying dormant, it didn’t take long for his presence to be felt on the airfield. At first a mild tremor but then a return to normal with something more akin to a Vesuvian eruption as the Club Shoutometer registered as high as 80 which is not bad for starters.
With multiple gliders and limited vehicles (using the plural “vehicles” rather generously due to the ranger being out of action for the foreseeable), the launch point was steady to set up; nevertheless, both Als keenly took the first launch of the day after encouraging our duty tug pilot, John “don’t tell them your name” Pike-ard to double time it into the tug. Cloud base was reported to be not much above 2000ft, but it was expected to rise throughout the day with gaps eventually appearing.
Biggles Haynes and our visitor for the day, Liam, from Staffordshire GC at neighbouring Seighford airfield took the next tow. Liam is currently in the Air Cadets and aspires to join the RAF in an engineering role. We’re pleased that Liam has now joined as a junior member and we look forward to seeing him again soon.
Our new met professor, Will, was next up in R66... a nice change of scenery for him compared to repairing its trailer’s interior. Sadly, the cloud was too low for him to connect with the wave. Sounds like another weather app is in need of downloading! An hour later, the Colonel braved the increasing winds as he creaked and squeaked into EEO, taking advantage of the breaking cloud cover, punching through to 4000ft. Having contacted the wave, he enjoyed a 50-minute saunter over Shrewsbury before returning to Earth, with a sporting approach.
Laura and Brad were keen to follow, but they weren’t in it for the wave. Laura has convinced Brad that flying a normal attitude is so last century, and is now coaching him through his basic aerobatic endorsement for his SPL. Across two flights, they worked on Brad’s up and down lines and loops… a f-loop-ing amazing experience. Over the coming weeks and months, both CFI Gally the Goat and the ‘G’ Queen will continue to put Brad through his paces.
Laura and Brad on tow with Geoff piloting WG.
Kim Al Swan and #vulcanbomber were next to take on the wave, followed by team Adlard having another attempt at connecting with the wave. Both teams had successful soaring flights with trips north of 45 minutes.
Gally the GOAT then decided to show us how it’s done in R66, and made of the most of the wave after a high tow, and after 67-minutes of very little turning, bagged the longest flight of the day - with a technical fault with the radio to rectify afterwards as his reward.
Team Adlard in JMJ (former R46) before their soaring flight.
Back on the ground at Shawbury, winds were beginning to gust beyond the limits of WG, now our only tugging asset after the Haynes gang bust KE last weekend, now looking a might forlorn tucked away in Hangar 4. We await the outcome of any decision concerning its repair; it is likely it will be out of action for some time further yet. The decision was therefore made to cease any further flying. This was further reinforced by even nature itself taking a break from the wind…
Upon requesting the assistance of a couple of youngsters to wing walk the tug back to the hangar, Colin and Al volunteered… not kidding anyone there, chaps.
With gliders being towed away left, right and centre, The Butcher was in command of taking the bus back… and having acquainted himself with the brake’s sensitivity, got us back with most objects in their original position. The journey back was not without competition though, as Beccy reckons girl power will trump Hoss’ drive. Only one way to find out…
In the short 4 hour flying window we achieved 13 launches and 5h:45m flying time. A a great day was had by all and many thanks team for your efforts!
In other news, the club was pounced upon by the Myndies today to size up the initiative of new branch of RSGC, RAF MYNDBURY G.C. The founding members were most impressed with the site and look forward to the club’s future… that said, they expressed their reticence at the pre-determined runway malarky.
Club News
Our Duo Discus (R2) is off for another visit to Denbigh. Departing today, the plan is to move it there in relays. Google maps suggests that the shortest route via the B5063 should only take 18 hrs 21 mins
Elsewhere, Toby has been appointed as Manager of the British Glider Aerobatics Team for 2026 so will be keeping a pastoral eye on Laura. It’s a voluntary position so The Vicar will still be doing his day job. The British Glider Aerobatic Team were delighted to make the announcement, going on to state:
“Toby brings a rare and powerful combination of operational aviation experience, regulatory insight, and pastoral leadership that will be invaluable as we prepare for a demanding World Championship season.”
Top job Vicar!
