Pulpit, Monday 2/26

[Ward Odenwald]

As of now, forecast models are all indicating that during most of the day it will be soarable (both single and double surfaced gliders). Blue skies and above freezing temps at takeoff are also predicted. In addition, Juan has agreed to help with launches and retrievals. Any interest?

Ward

[silverwings]

A number of PG's are probably going to Woodstock on Monday afternoon. The Pulpit probably too windy for PG's.

[Ward Odenwald]

Nick Brown, a soon to be HG pilot, will also help with launches and retrievals.

Ward

[Ward Odenwald]

As of 5pm today, all three forecast models are saying that it doesn’t get much better for Monday Pulpit soaring! From noon until 5pm at takeoff, the hourly average wind directions (all three models) are 297 to 303 and wind speeds predictions are 12 to 14mph hourly averages with a 9 to 18mph spread. Plus, winds aloft are not predicted to be roaring with only gradual increases in speed.

My ETA is 10:30. Please post if you’re going.

Ward

[Blaine]

Wish I could make it but I have to work. Hopefully next time.

[bustedwing2]

i can wire,maybe fly, ETA closer to noon.

[Ward Odenwald]

Good day! Thanks to RichB, Nick Brown and JuanS for helping with takeoff and retrieval! Morning conditions were less than ideal (light north cross) but by 2 pm soarable conditions arrived. After several attempts, I was able to climb up to 4K msl in one of the thermals that I was lucky enough to find. Not a “huge gain” by any measure but ‘heck’ its only Feb. I’ll have more to say later plus the flight track that highlights how persistent searching in an area of small pockets of lift pays off. If I have any photos worthy of showing others I'll include them.

First 2018 flight so I’m very happy!

Ward

[Ward Odenwald]

Here’s a link to my flight track (best viewed using the Google Chrome browser) and 10 images that were taken during the last 25 min of the 1hr 19min flight. The first three views are of the Cumberland Valley just after passing over the Tuscarora ridge. Except for the final two landing photos, the others are from the last thermal climb that started just after I unzipped in preparation for landing next to the Lemar Elementary School (shown in the first image at the corner of rt. 75 and Lemar road). As you can see from the flight track, plenty of 360s for just under a thousand ft gain while in the last thermal but enough to extend the fun. Plus, all of the photos highlight the ‘huge’ LZs that cover most of the valley during the winter and early spring.

Ward

http://doarama.com/view/1919834

[Ward Odenwald]

Last five images.

[thermalup]

...

Thx much Ward for sharing the photos and flight tracking. Sure is comforting to see that spring is on its way in your part of the country.
..::Jim G.

[markc]

Jim, greetings to you and Marzena from down south! Hopefully you'll start to see some spring-ish conditions soon too. Let us know when you've planned your next trip this way!

Oh, forgot to ask, did anyone else fly on Monday? How'd they do?

[Ward Odenwald]

Mark, Hoping that others would have joined in but the reality of workday responsibilities trumped flying. Ward

PS: Jim, looking forward to when you and Marzena head south. We’ve come to recognize your arrival as the definitive sign of Spring!