SCPA & SBSA Discussion Board

So I'm looking at the forecast with my kitchen pass in hand and I see that Pine just might turn on on Saturday. It's only Weds so who knows what will happen by then. But I'm looking at what's being predicted and I'm thinking, wouldn't it be great if just once we could get a huge turn out to take advantage of the conditions. Something to remind me of the sport's glory days when pilots had to sometimes ride on the roof of the chase vehicle. Of course the invite goes out to the PGs, but since Tony and I are really the only Team Topa HGs left, I'm talking about Team Toast here. That's right, I'm calling you out :-)

John

It is Labor Day Weekend coming up. At least a few of us Toasters usually go up to the Owens Valley...It also seems like the weather is shaping up for another good round of desert flying...better get that O2 filled...

From Mindensoaringclub.com: Outlook...stronger thermals Thu-Fri leading into good Labor Day weekend...altho potential for isolated afternoon OD with Cb/tstms Apline-Mt Grant-MtWhitney triangle on Sat...

Maybe this will keep you closer to home:

Reno:

LONG TERM...SUNDAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY...
SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN THE WEATHER FOR SUNDAY AND SUNDAY NIGHT AS A
STRONG COLD FRONT PUSHES THROUGH THE AREA. THIS WILL MEAN WINDY
CONDITIONS SUNDAY AND SUNDAY NIGHT...AND MUCH COOLER WEATHER ON TAP
FOR THE AREA SUNDAY INTO THE EARLY PART OF THE WEEK.

Local:

HIGH PRESSURE WILL ALSO BUILD OVER THE WATERS OFF THE COAST...WHICH SHOULD ALSO INCREASE WESTERLY FLOW ALL ADD UP TO A RATHER QUICK AND STEEP COOL DOWN SUN AND MON...WITH A FEW BREEZY SPOTS ALONG THE COAST AND THE MTNS

If nothing else you can pull a Diablo and fly up into the Owens from Pine on Saturday.

John

Concerning O2: what's the recommended product for HG's and who sells them? The scuba tank I tried last year worked great - I just couldn't talk on the radio with that hose in my mouth, so I'm looking for something smaller.
DT

Mountain HIgh Aviation Oxygen Systems. Make sure that you purchase the unit with the computer that gives you oxygen periodically and not continuosly. This will conserve O2. (641)923-4100

It is not looking good for Sierra flying this weekend:

Outlook...best day with stronger thermals Friday...latest GFS models throwing BIG curve into soaring Labor Day weekend...75+ kt jetstream with deepening trof/cold front dives toward soaring area Sat afternoon taking a thermal start into a CHOPPY rotor with blustery beautiful Sierra wave...(faster than a blink on an eye)...much cooler by 10-15 degs on Sunday...possible slow recovery thermal type day on Mon...
(I don't need this kind of practice...but JV soaring pilots and FBO's will need to exercise CAUTION)...

Pine on Saturday is looking like the best option.