What a lot of fun this past weekend. Flew at the Flyin/Memorial on Sat. Ran into pilots and X-pilots that I hadn't seen in years. Snagged a ride with Stan and his wife to Crestline(Thanks Again).
After doing a little glider maintenance launched around 1:30. Climbed about 1000 over and decided to cross over to Pine. No one there yet, so couldn't tell if it was working or not. Once there didn't find much and turned back for Crestline. Serious sink crossing back. Aborted and headed for Regionals. Got there low and
began looking for a saving thermal. Found one about 200 below top of the ridge. Stuck with it for about 15 mins drifting towards Marshall. It really turned on behind marshall and I was able to
core it up to about 5000. Crossed back to Crestline with only minimal loss. Not enough altitude to soar crestline, so I sprinted over to Billboard again and saw Mark fighting to core something.
As I got nearer my vario began to squeal and I climbed above billboard. Saw gliders about 2000 above me and wondered how"d they get there. All of a sudden my Ultrasport pitched up and began
seeking what the other wings had already experienced. Unfortunately I had a PG in the thermal with me and we were both rocketing up.
Because lift was so strong and I feared being pitched into him even though he was flying appropriately I pulled out. Couple of turns and he was at approx 8000. I had bailed at 6600. Not long afterwards found another boomer and was able to climb up with them at about 7400. Decided I'd had my fill of this wonderful air and started across to Marshall again.
In the middle of the valley pulled along side Dusty in his Falcon.
We waved and flew alongside each other for couple of mins. I then pulled the control bar to my waist and streaked over to Marshall. Got there at about a 1000 over and watched many PG's and HG's working the scratchy lift. Flew over to the east towers
without losing much altitude. 2hrs into the flight forgot my gum and mouth was glued shut. Looked at the LZ and it was relatively clear, so decided now was a good time to begin socializing.
Flew into the pattern unmolested and dove for the trees/ranchhouse. Once at tree level reversed and came around into the wind. Nailed the spot landing. Absolutely on top of the center mark, only there was no contest. (Figures). Thanks to Rob and Di, and all those that assisted in making this a memorable event. (Food was great, cold drinks were even better)
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Great Flight with Jack