Jaca 2016 Week 2 - Day 5

Unlike yesterday we awoke to find clear blue skies and were optimistic about the prospects for the day's flying. However the weather briefing had two widely differing predictions for the day, varying from becoming overcast by 4pm to raining by 2pm. In the meantime a band of high level cloud drifted in over the valley which postponed first launch until noon. At least it felt pleasantly warm on the ground today with sun hats making their first appearance of the week.

The DG with Jim and Merv were first to launch, reporting back that Stage 1 was working well. Graham and Bob launched next and both gliders climbed quickly to over well over 7,000'. With the high level cloud still affecting conditions to the north, both gliders headed south east past Oroel. The thermals and cloud base were significantly better than forecast. On their return, Graham and Bob gave in to the temptation to make a close inspection of Oroel. Several laps of the summit ridge provided a fitting conclusion to the flight.

Duo Discus heading out towards Oroel.

Jim and Merv reached the main ridge near Ordessa and flew west taking in the stunning views and reaching 9,500'. Today was the first time Stage 3 had been visible all week.

Soaring with a Lammergeir (aka bone crushing vulture)

Julian had a spare seat in E6 and was kind enough to invite Ayala to join him. This meant that everyone got to fly which was great as tomorrow's forecast isn't promising.

By the time the gliders returned for their second sorties the expected high level cloud and spreadout were beginning to threaten. Despite this, neither glider had a problem getting away and both the Duo with Jon and Bob and the DG with Mike and Merv reached the main ridge above Stage 3 which Merv has now started referring to as Stage 4. (I suspect Merv also has his own Stage 5 somewhere deep into France.)

Ridge soaring Stage 3 under the thickly overcast skies was interesting due to the lack of contrast, making it difficult to judge the distance above the snow covered slopes. Apparently the red tips on the DG help as Mike and Merv managed 4 passes in the murk.

Toya provided another excellent dinner of baked lamb and roasted potatoes followed by a group singalong accompanied by Ayala and Toya on guitar.

Bob and Merv.