Day one of the US Hang Gliding Nats

Day 1: 122 km task was called, 2 turnpoints then a cross/headwind goal. I made it just over 80.5 km then landed rather than chance a 4 km glide over forest from 300' above the ground. I tried to make it up over but it was so windy that I would have to commit from way too low. The upwind glides just killed my height. My max alt. today was about 1500 meters (or just over 5000'). I'm quickly learning that you can't get too low in Florida or your day will be over. Especially in 25 knot winds!

Most of team Canada was scattered throughout the couse line with Brett in goal (of course),I landed just after the second turnpoint on the way to goal, Scott and Ralph were at turpoint 1, etc. I think Rob Clarkson made it between tp 1 and 2 as I suspect Jim Scoles as well. I suppose we'll see when the results go up.

A big thanx to Rob, Jim, Scott and Ralph for helping me break down and carry my glider about 1 1/2 km from the shitty LZ that I pounded into to the hwy since all the gates were locked. Terry Ryan is team Canada's driver and man what a treat. Terry is always smiling, ever so helpful and really happy to let us all ramble on and on about every detail of our flights!

There were about 12 gliders in goal today. Brett of course with 9 other flex wings and 3 ridgid wings.

The top pilots did the course in just about 1 1/2 hours so I think the day will be very devalued (they need 3 hr. tasks to get the 1000 point days).