WRE Zapata Approaches
The Zapata WRE is almost here! Since its discovery, distance world records from this site have been set so convincingly that they eclipse all other sites in the world combined. Think about what that really means. Its rather profound, since the WRE has set off a panoply of imitative "encmampments" in Brazil, Australia, South Africa and other sites around the globe.
Of course, you need not attempt world records to enjoy the outstanding conditions. Flying for personal bests in distance have been very rewarding and successful for past pilots of all experience levels. A little known fact is that afternoon to evening flying during normal time periods for any other site is also world class. Particularly on light wind days which are not suitable for distance records, some of the fastest closed course times possible have been flown at Zapata. By late afternoon, strong, smooth thermals with high cloud bases, close spacing, and abundant cumulus are the norm, day after day.
One of our goals this year was to get a comprehensive cross-section of classes and gender. Its exciting to know that Lauren Tjaden will be with us flying for Women's records. We also look forward to Robin's exploits in his Swift. As an added surprise, a very early WRE supporter and pilot plans on joining us in a similar design. If I'm not too busy, I might take a crack at another Light Sailplane record... I haven't really made an attempt in a couple of years and that magic 15th world record would be a sweet one to get.
Right now, there are 8 of us planning to participate. We have room for a couple more, which is quite comfortable, but going much higher would soon necessitate securing another dedicated tug pilot and in some ways, that's less desirable both cost-wise and logistically. We want a laid back, small group that can focus and achieve. Spread the word if you know of a couple more pilots who can come.
Weather: As shown on the Drought Monitor link Davis has helpfully provided on the Oz Report, the conditions continue to look excellent going into our event. Of particular note is the region immediately leading into the hill country and the first half of it. In less stellar years, this is the region that can become a killer, stopping potentially long flights about half way through. This year, its max'ed out dry and looking great. There has been a recent period of very scattered precip which is currently predicted for a few more days, then a return to the drier pattern. We want some precip from time to time or we run the risk of blue day after blue day. On the other hand, we want the precip to be restrained so that soil moisture quickly goes back to bone dry. That's how its setting up right now.
We will be able to provide our venue at the Zapata County Airport, modern hangar and staging space out of the sun (an absolute necessity in the desert environment), all tows throughout the event, launch support and emergency coordination. Of course, you will need to work out your drivers, communication issues beyond the launch area, etc. Lodging is relatively cheap and we have all stayed at the Lakefront Lodge in the past. Having everyone together has proven to be helpful for planning, ride options, and the requisite pool in the evenings. The sublime combination of Pete Lehmann's philosophical wit, the water, and libation become magical in the desert environment.
Lakefront Lodge: Linda- (956) 765-4346
We would need to have your registration monies up front if you are going to participate. Mail to:
Gary Osoba
Zapata WRE
2248 Redbud Lane
Wichita, KS 67204
Answers to specific questions about flight and other planning can be found on Davis' links on the WRE section of the OZ Report. Or it may prove helpful to visit with some of the most experienced pilots at this venue- Dustin, Pete, Davis. Please be advised that to claim official world records you will need to have a current FAI sporting license, available through your HG association.
That's it for now. We could use a couple more pilots, so think about bringing a friend to fly with us. It looks really good! See here for the list of registered pilots.
