McClure Flying Report

I left for McClure at 8 on Saturday morning, arrived in the LZ by noon.  Lots of gliders on launch already.

Missed the 3 speed gliders, 2 Falcons and a Sport.  Got a ride up from KM, with Scot and others.

McClure’s set up area is tight but has been expanded and most of the poison oak is gone.  I set up in the back and was stuck there until about 2:15.

It was coming in pretty good, if crossed from the left, with good straight cycles.  First launches at 1:15 found thermals and climbed out.

The flying was nice.  I just boated around over the top without going anywhere.  Eventually got to 5994 MSL.

The wind aloft started out south at 8 or 9, became west at 11 later.  Thermals were smooth, best climb was briefly 700 feet/minute, most about 200 to 400.

There was a lot of traffic, I enjoyed circling with other gliders several times.  Thermalling etiquette was very good.

It took 20 minutes to land.  As other gliders got low, I would climb in light thermals over the LZ, waiting for them to land. Finally I found a good opening and spiraled down.

It was great to see so many landings.  Breaking down under the pine trees was sappy.  An OomPah band played much of the afternoon.  There was a bouncy-house for kids.

Kurt landed around 5, happy as usual.  He arrived after I’d launched.

There were more than 30 gliders.

I left early, 6 pm, and was home by 10:30.  Long drive but glad I went.  A very nice flight and lots of friends to see.  Thanks MLSR.  Got me some.