Taylor's 10/30

[A0213]

Today was interesting…

I guess I should start at the beginning, because there were some high points to the day…

I arrived at Taylor’s around 11 am and started to set up my glider. Today was my second day flying it (flew it last weekend at Taylor’s and got 5 decent flights in). After John M. arrived, I did my ‘test runs’ and all looked good. I really had the sense that my glider and I were ‘bonding’… I felt in control, was able to maintain level wings, and was timing my flares appropriately.

I made my way up the hill and did my first flight at the halfway point- was a decent flight with a one-step landing. I did my second flight a little higher, and again, had another good flight. I was feeling really great about my flights- everything seemed to have been coming together!

And then…

I was most of the way up the hill preparing for my third flight. The wind was ramping up a little bit, but there were still some decent cycles. I did several ‘picking ups’ and ‘putting downs’ as I waited to find a cycle I liked. I started to pick up my glider when a strong wind gust got underneath me. Before I knew it, I was 5-10 feet above the ground and drifting towards the right. I was able to manipulate the glider back down, but not for long. A half of a second later, I was back up, and this time had no control of the glider and was tumbling down the hill.

After the glider came to a stop, I was able to unhook and get myself out of the tangled mess. I gave a quick wave over to John that I was “ok”… I managed to come out of this without a scratch or bruise.

After taking a deep breath, I did that “one-eye open” look down at my glider… my brand spanking new glider…broken leading edge, broken keel (near the nose), tear in the sail, bent down tube, and bent baton. John M. and Chris came over and carried the wreckage back to the breakdown area for me.

After having some time to think about the incident, there are several things that I have concluded (yes, there is a point to this post!). First and foremost, I am thankful that I am okay. This incident could have had a less favorable outcome. With that said, I made a mistake. When the glider became airborne, I should have pulled the nose in, taken the flight, and landed as soon as it was safe.

Also, I want to thank everyone that was there who offered support and hugs (sorry about the wet shoulders!). Thank you all for taking the time to talk with me and offer encouragement- it is those types of talks that stop students from giving up on themselves or the sport.

So for now, it looks like I will be back on John M’s F2 170 at the hills! I am hoping to get my glider over to Blue Sky in the next few months to get it repaired for the spring.

... What a day...

[mcelrah]

Oof! As the guy in "Life of Riley" (TV show from long before you were born - like black and white TV!) used to say: "what a revolting development!"

Get your "wreckage" to Steve sooner rather than later. He will fix it sooner and cheaper than his estimate and it will be good as new.

Soooo sorry! - Hugh

[jyoder111]

Ouch, what a bummer! Glad you're ok.

[uplandann]

Amy, so sorry to hear about your new glider, but glad you are okay! And willing to get back on the flying horse... I'm glad I got to meet you Friday at WS.

Ann

[rasmussenv]

With all that damage to the wing, it really is terrific that you are un-injured.

I'd hoped we'd be flying together today! I'm so sorry.

Valerie

[carweill]

Most important thing is that you are OK.

Sorry about the glider. I know how it is when you just got it.


Carlos

[A0213]

Hello,

Thanks for all of the well wishes- I really appreciate that! Today has been a little bit more difficult... the back soreness is setting in and the reality that I wrecked my glider is hitting me hard. I have been having my moments throughout the day, but, this is all part of the process, right?!

I called Steve at Blue Sky today to get an idea of what the next step would be. He said to bring the glider by at any time and he would take a look/start the reconstruction process. I am hoping to get my glider over there in the next month or so.

Again, thank you all for the kind words, I am so thankful to be apart of this 'family'!

-Amy

[kcarra]

Hi Amy

That's such a heart breaker - I'm so sorry. I didn't know at first that it was actually you because the post wasn't signed. I wish I still had my old Pulse 9M to let you borrow! I hope that your back starts feeling better soon. Get that glider to Steve ASAP!

Karen