Jaca 2017 Week 1 - Day 3

The weather briefing promised a higher cloudbase, stronger thermals and a light wind without the troublesome cirrus of the day before. However the only chance of cumulus would be over the main ridge of the Pyrenees. The best news was that the weather should continue to improve over the next couple of days.

Merv must have a really good glider supply contract as he had yet another glider upgrade today and is now flying the Club Nimbus Duo Discus T1. This was possible due to the earlier than planned departure of the Booker pilots, John and Nick.

Merv polishes T1 whilst Derek supervises.

Further fettling required...

.... whilst Ray and James keep out of the sun.

As we waited for the thermals to get going, we watched the new tug pilot being put through his paces with quick turnaround launches to 1000' of a Spanish pilot who needed 15 flights to revalidate his licence. We marked the accuracy of the tow rope release which improved steadily with each attempt . 

The Duo launched first with Ray and Bob followed a little later by T1 with James and Merv, both opting to be towed directly to Stage 2. Even so it was hard work to make the transition to the main ridge, taking 1 hour of sweaty circles for the Duo. The reward was spectacular views over to France and a cloudbase of over 8,000'.

It was another great day for bird spotting with further sightings of migrating cranes and black kites. The highpoint was numerous sightings of the rare Lammergeier vultures.

Ray in the Duo takes a good look at the main ridge.

The second sortie also found getting away tricky, with the ridge to the east of stage 1 proving the best option. Mark and Bob in the Duo managed to make the transition to Stage 3 whilst T1 with Derek and Merv explored the lower reaches of the firebreak.

Mark heading back to the airfield at the end of the day.

A fantastic day's flying for everyone with more in prospect for tomorrow.

Morag prepared another super meal of Lemon chicken for the team, though all this flying means that supplies are now running low particularly the cellar.

Bob.