Monday 2 January 2017

2nd Jan - Ditchling Beacon and what a turn out!

The wind forecast for today has reduced and reduced as the week has progressed, so was not greatly surprised to find a light-ish breeze blowing onto the slopes to the West of Ditchling Beacon main car park. I was surprised by the great turnout of people out to enjoy the sunshine, lift and happy banter.
I was joined by Bob, Jim, Ian, Kevin, Will, Mike, Mark & Scott (hope I haven't forgotten anyone?).
Lift wasn't mega but good enough for the Xpro which cruised around very happy but not good for most the others, so we made our fist move of the day. Here the lift was a little better. Myself and Kevin Beale decided to go for a little cross country and wandered off away along the slope for about a mile and then wandered back again. Kevin keeping high with the circling Airbuses and I preferred to stay lower (well couldn't keep up with Kevin). Soon back with the crowd.
Bob had a fantastic maiden of his built up R/E glider which loved the light / moderate conditions. He also had his maiden flight of his new middle phase which flew true from launch. Just needs to get the aileron throws sorted out. Will kept himself busy with wing falling off his Tracuer and the Jart denting the hill side. Mike Smallridge was a welcome visitor who flew his foam jet and once the lift picked up he was well away cruising around. Scott flew his Wildy and also enjoyed his Dragon and we did some landing practice in the big field next door. Jim continued to improve with his foamy.
We were joined by a paraglider who took of along the ridge then happily flew infornt off and between our models and then promptly did the same coming back again. Joined by a full sized glider. A DG1000 which powered up and past us which made something different to watch.
All in all a very enjoyable day up on the hill. Thanks to all who made the effort and I hope you hade as much fun as I did.
Until next time........

4 comments:

  1. Great videos and a great turnout - sorry I missed it but I don't want to get pneumonia just before my hospital checkup next week.

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  2. Had a great day with the Kloudrider, I was so happy to see a pile of balsa, stuck together with wood glue, fly so well. Also enjoyed Paul landing it for me, in the only bush for miles around :) but still better than my efforts.
    The Middle phase was very lively but looking forward to flying next time with reduced aileron throw.
    Nice to meet Mike and catch up with everyone else.

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  3. Nice to see you all this morning and thanks very much Paul for your assistance with the Dragon. I can't wait for the next session and progress a bit further!

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  4. Awesome session indeed and great write-up and vids Paul. Still find the views from up there incredible. Privileged to be able to spend time in such amazing settins with such a great bunch of people!

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