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After Briefing

Right a better day with a ridge of high pressure over mid Europe.  The contest area is ahead of a low sitting over the UK/North Sea.  The convergence line is expected to arrive here in the late afternoon so they expect showers, thunderstorms and possibly hail later this evening.  For flying however it is moreorless clear skies with a slight chance of a little cumulus and possibly some cirrus.  So blue thermals up to about 3 m/s and further east up to 2000m.  Max temperature today approx 32°C.

Tasks for the Open class 491 km. initially to the NW, then to the SE, then NE and back to Lusse, whilst the 18m. have 412 km. in generally the same direction, and the 15m. 405 km.  Open are still at the front of the grid, followed by the 15m. and then last 18m.

First launch is expected at 12 noon.  This morning all 12 of the tug pilots were introduced, and thanks were extended to OSTIV for their opening ceremony last evening  and good wishes for the congress which starts today.  So today Bossie will be attending the sessions rather than being a crew to Attie.

This evening we get to enjoy the German Team party – their invite shows a pig and draught beer!  Till next update.

 

 

Thursday 7th August

Yesterday was definitely a waste of a day as we hung around waiting and waiting until eventually they cancelled the remaining 2 classes for the day.  The team went separate ways with Quintin & Heather visiting Brandenburg, Attie, Bossie & I went to the official opening of the OSTIV Congress, Benno, Pieter, Gunter, Suzy & Laurens had another braai at the airfield.

The OSTIV opening was a short address given by Loek Boermans (OSTIV president) about the work and role of OSTIV, then there were several presentations of certificates for special performances, diplomas for specific papers presented (technical paper about flutter, and scientific paper about Alpine flying) as well as special prizes.  A Keynote address was given by Prof. Dr-Ing Jurgen Thorbech “Gliding Research – an Important Incubator for Entire Aviation”.  He spoke about the early days of inventors (e.g. Lilienthal),  gliding,  the development of the sailplane, aerofoils, products, and so forth and how this technology has also been used and introduced into other forms of aviation (e.g. airliners, voyager, etc.).

Reflecting on Tuesday’s flight, sadly Attie went into the edge of airspace, which has resulted in a serious drop of points.  This is very disappointing and obviously a stupid mistake on his part.  He has checked everything and knows now why he had the problem.  Now we need to focus on the days ahead.  He has already had several pilots talking to him about the performance of the JS1 and how he leaves them behind, so that is very good for morale. 

This morning is looking more promising.  Gliders will be gridded in the same spots as yesterday as there was no task, and there are blue skies and sunshine with a bit of wind.  So more after briefing.

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