52nd Anniversary of Otto Meet - May 23, 2023

[Bob Kuczewski]

I had my cameras running most of the day. Here are the sixth ten in random order.

[Bob Kuczewski]

I had my cameras running most of the day. Here are the seventh ten in random order.

[Bob Kuczewski]

I had my cameras running most of the day. Here are the eighth ten in random order.

[Bob Kuczewski]

I had my cameras running most of the day. Here are the last of this series in random order.

[Frank Colver]

After looking at Bob's photos from the Lilienthal meet, here's something to think about:
Many hang glider pilots who were there that day had histories of long distance flights of many miles and flight altitudes of many thousands of feet. All were observed having a great time at a 25 feet high beach bluff site. That is the wonderful nature of this sport.

Frank

[JoeF]

There seems to be too few tie-downs at the site. One solution might be is to fill sandbags and well tie them to the nose of a HG. Perhaps fill three bags and gang lines to them to form one integrated heavy situation. Then at session end, empty the sand at the top of the launch area at judicious spots to build up the site gradually. Be sure to have enough resistance for the conditions.

[Frank Colver]

I did this for the first several Otto meets at Dockweiler except I brought buckets with lengths of rope tied through a hole in the bottom. The idea was to fill the buckets with sand and use the rope to tie the nose of the glider. At the end of the day the buckets would be dumped on the ground. However, nobody was interested in using my buckets so I quit bringing them with me.

Unfortunately, they are of no use to me now because of the hole in each bucket's bottom.

An advantage to your bags over my buckets would be the smaller space they would take up transporting them. But they would need two people to fill them.

Frank

[JoeF]

Form the sanded anchors before opening the HG.
==========================================
ChatGPT program produced the following note:
Using a parked hang glider as a makeshift shelter to provide shade and protection from the sun and wind is an innovative idea. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can set up a private resting place using a hang glider:

Find a suitable location: Look for a secure and open area where you can safely park and set up the hang glider. It should ideally be a spot with a flat surface and enough space for the wings to extend.

Secure the hang glider: Ensure the hang glider is parked securely by using the appropriate restraints or supports. This will prevent any unexpected movement due to wind or other external factors.

Prepare the space: Clear the area underneath the hang glider and remove any debris or obstacles. This will provide a clean and safe space for you to relax.

Extend the wing: Gently extend one of the wings of the hang glider. Make sure it is fully open and locked into position. This will serve as the structure from which you'll hang the curtains.

Install the curtains: Attach curtain rods or lines to the underside of the hang glider's wing. Make sure they are securely fastened to handle the weight of the curtains. You can use lightweight, weather-resistant curtains or fabric that can be easily draped.

Hang the curtains: Hang the curtains from the curtain rods or lines, creating a private and shaded space beneath the wing of the hang glider. Arrange the curtains to provide the desired level of privacy and protection from the sun and wind.

Secure the curtains: Use clips or ties to secure the curtains to the hang glider's wing, ensuring they stay in place even in gusty conditions.

Customize your resting area: Add additional comfort to your private space by including a mat, cushion, or lightweight seating underneath the hang glider. You can also consider bringing a small table or other amenities to make the area more inviting.

Remember to always prioritize safety when implementing such ideas. Make sure the hang glider is properly secured, and take precautions to ensure the structure and curtains are secure and won't pose any risks. Additionally, be mindful of any local regulations or restrictions that may apply to the use of hang gliders in non-flight activities.

Enjoy your private shaded resting place under the hang glider and have a peaceful nap or rest after your flying activities!

[Frank Colver]

Good grief, Joe! If this gets out, the homeless will be stealing our gliders to make shelters.

Frank