Saturday the 8th October saw WMAC members take advantage of the rather "breezy" wind conditions to visit Wingreen for some combat wing flying. With a norwesterly wind quite a few of us had a a good few hours on the slope before the cloud base rolled in low creating a fine misty rain. Two novices had a spell on the sticks too and after some expert guidance were able to stay airborne. Lot's of laughs and skillful dodging made for a good afternoon. However, when the rain stopped play most of us retired to Compton Abbas aerodrome for beers and general discussion to round-off the day.
So, Autumn has crept up on us very quickly, the end of Summer masked by long periods of high winds and sudden showers. Power flying at Cashmoor has been a little "hit - n - miss" except for a few days over what seems an eternity. So much for the forecast of a long hot Summer made back earlier in the year. Or the direction of the wind has been far from ideal up at the field making some take-offs and landings "interesting".
However, high winds can bring fun and frolics if you have the right gear. We are talking slope soarers, comonly known as Zagis and also gliding without power assistance. If there is one thing going for slope soaring, it is the fact that it is cheap and low cost.
For those of you who have never considered it. More exciting than "Tomboys" . More fun rush than duration gliding. Better than staying at home! A zagi or EPP combat wing can cost as little £40. All you need is a couple of cheap servos, a full range minimal number of channels receiver and small 4.8v battery pack.
At present he club has about twelve/fifteen slope pilots who regulary hit the slopes, either Gourds Farm or Wingreen. Some even venture to Evercreech or Mere (White Sheet) the latter for gliding in virtually any direction.
Gourds Farm is a little bit of a "walk" we know but is ideal for Westerly, SouWesterly winds as the wind is directed up the Blackmore Vale. However for those who prefer to park and fly then Wingreen is ideal. Wingreen is a public site against Gourds which is exclusive to WMAC. Wingreen is ideal for Northerlies and NorWesterlies. Winter/Autumn invariably means cool winds mainly form north so Wingreen is most used during this time. The advantage of Wingreen is you park the car, climb over one stile and you are on the slope.
We would like to see more members join us, usually Saturdays on the slopes, weather permitting. Once you have had ago you'll be hooked! Recently, we have had two members "slope virginity" broken and now they are gagging for more.
We would like to see more faces take up this fun flying plus it requires no fuel except a flask of hot brew and a sandwich. Plus the more wings in the air the more fun, excitement and adrenalin is to be had. Or you can just cruise around gently.
If you struggle with strenuous walks then Wingreen this time of year is for you. Why not come along next time and have a trial with a Zagi. Buddy -Box flights available if pre-booked.
For more info contact either Graham or Phil F via the contacts link