After lunch, we went back to the LZ, and waited for the afternoon depart to launch. Some of us were a little skeptical since the winds did seem strong and launch was now blowing in at about 15 to 25 mph. However, what was interesting, the winds were now blowing in from the Northwest which is perfect for Mt. Werner. Just maybe we were going to get lucky.
We all met at the LZ at 4 p.m. and loaded up. We got to launch and winds were still quite strong with some cycles to 20 mph. After about 20 minutes on launch, lulls were getting longer and the cycles did seem to be diminshing in speed. So guess who was up first. It was Chuck again. This time he was graced with good lift off launch and proceeded to climb out for an awesome evening flight. What seems interesting at this site is the launch cycles diminish quickly, which makes it more difficult to launch and possibly miss the soaring potential. I launched about 6 p.m. and climbed about to about 1000 feet over launch. Views were amazing and the air smooth, I began to shoot some pics. It was fun to fly over the mountain with many of the other pilots, and finish with a nice evening flight before the party festivities.
This site is 3,500 vertical feet from launch to landing. We figured it is about a 5 or 6 to 1 glide from launch to the LZ. None of the pilots had any problem making it to the valley. What a phenominal site.
After flying we all went to Mark Cahur's for some apps and a keg, and enjoyed a movie Marks girlfriend, Debbie, put together for the group. Great camaraderie, and fun. It's not just the flying that makes these events, its also the gatherings after.
Unfortunately, the weather did not turn out favorable for flying the next two days. So Karen and I took a drive north toward Wyoming to check out Steamboat Lake and Pearl Lake. It is tucked in hills very much like the landscape in Montana and Idaho. It is a beautiful area to get away with lots of options for fishing, hunting, camping, etc. And of course you can't forget the pig roast at Eric Olsons ranch to finish the weekend. Unfortunately it rained, but the bonfire still raged. The rain stopped at about 10 p.m. and the band soon kicked in with some awesome music.
You got to check this event out next year. It is one of the flying highlights of the year.
Now being back in the Vail area it is time to get ready for the Paragliding Nationals which will be in Bishop, CA starting on the 14th of September. The weather does look good for some flying before then, so I will keep you updated often. Cheers!
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