Thermal clinic this weekend

[Doug G]

Hey All,

Sorry to post in the Flight discussion section, but we wanted to make sure everybody saw this…

Just as quick reminder…

We’re running a thermal clinic this weekend, April 10th, 11th, and 12nd. We developed this clinic specifically for the entry level to the P3 level pilot who’s looking to increase their ability and confidence while thermal flying.

The plan is to discuss theory and have an open discussion on Friday evening and Saturday morning, with flying and radio coaching on Saturday and Sunday. For the discussion periods, we’ve developed a really great packet of information, covering topics that include:
• Thermal theory, what they are, and where they come from
• Weather, of course
• How to thermal efficiently…maximizing your performance and comfort (fun)
• How to share the space with others
• Equipment considerations
• Other safety considerations
• And finally, a number of other thermalling tips that we’ve developed over years of experience….

We’re offering the full 2 ½ day clinic for $400.

But, as we recognize Sunday the 13th is Easter, and this may present scheduling difficulties for some pilots due to family commitments, we’re also offering a discounted option for pilots that can only join us for Friday and Saturday, at $300.

Please call one of us for more info, or shoot me a PM on this forum.

We hope you’ll consider joining us.

Irène, Doug and Jim

[Doug G]

What a great weekend it turned out to be for our Thermal Clinic! And what a great group of attendees we had too, including Justin Kiel, Chris Mckellar, David Davidson and out-of-towner Charlie.

While the weather didn’t fully cooperate on Saturday for a mountain flight, this gave us extra time to really dive into some detailed discussions on thermal theory, and how to apply that to real word flying. Even after a nearly full day of discussion it seemed like there’s still more we could have shared!

But that’s not to say we didn’t fly on Saturday. On the contrary, break time to the training hill provided plenty of action and some mid-day soaring before the west wind blew in completely.

But Sunday was the real flying day! And what a good day we had. The day provided really perfect conditions for a thermal clinic. Not so easy that just anybody could bumble their way skyward, and not so light that it doomed us to sled rides…but rather just right. The well organized and higher pressure, tight bubbly thermals allowed us to really put our discussions into action. Students each got firsthand experience locating, centering and tracking those sweet little thermals, and pretty soon we had a mini-gaggle of attendees patiently working together and soon climbing together. So cool!

In the end, everybody that flew pulled off extended thermal flights in front of West Bowl, with safe landings at the LZ . Nice job guys!

Thanks to all the attendees for participating and helping to make this clinic a great success. We look forward to flying with you, and continuing to help each of you again soon.

Irène, Doug, Jim