
The weather looked good.
Post frontal instability, SSW winds averaging around 10 knots and its not raining.
Arrived at launch and there are 4 or 5 keen looking guys all kitted up about to launch. By the time I have laid out my glider they have launched, a couple after a few interesting attempts. Maybe its too strong, but I'm keen to try. I think its is within my capabilities.
After one fizzle and one "pickup and dump on your back" launch attempt, I'm away. Looking for the "guns" I spot them at cloud base rapidly disappearing North toward Mangawhai. Can't seem to find their escalator so I'm going to muck around the hill and practice thermalling.
I fly for almost an hour and a half, and reach 513 m (approx. 1700 ft) above launch almost at cloud base, a personal best. I can stay up longer but I'm starting to feel the cold.
Attempting to top land I find the lift too much and push out in front to circle down and land in the LZ paddock. Its my first flight for 10 months so I'm pretty pleased.
I later find out those "guns" flew around 30 km.
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