16 Jun 07 - Gliding
We arrived at Alanbrooke Barracks in Topcliffe with Flt. Lt. Towse on a cloudy, grey Saturday, with little hope of actually being able to glide due to a distinct lack of suitable winds. However we approached the morning with optimism and enthusiasm, as myself and Cdt Powell had never flown before and were really looking forward to having the opportunity.
As they day drew on and we chatted to the Gliding Scholarship cadets, played on their PS3 and tried to do some homework/revision, the sky gradually lightened and eventually we were told the weather was okay for gliding!
We still had to wait, as cadets from Gateshead had arrived first so they got to go before us. Then, later on, just as Cdt Powell was invited for his turn, the approaching storm was deemed too close for us to fly safely. Flt. Lt. Towse suggested we wait to see if the storm cleared, and eventually - at about 4pm - it did, and all three of us got our 20 minute flights with a qualified Instructor Cadet. We learned how to pitch (moving the nose up and down) and then we were allowed to take control of the glider for a short time. We got to see some of the surrounding countryside, and Cdt Powell even flew over his own house!
It was a long day of waiting but thoroughly worth it in the end, and I think I speak for the three of us when I say: more gliding please!
by Cdt Wray
