XC Guiding Days 2009
David Ashcroft - 23/01/2009
XC guiding. This was introduced in 2008, but hardly got off the ground despite plenty of interest. We had a couple of successful days from Clough to Ambleside and beyond, but little much else. This should be a lot easier when we have a normal summer and accurate forecasts, as we need specific conditions to have a successful day. The article below was published last year but applies as well this year. CP's can take part in the XC days but do not jump straight from having coaching. Paragliders should spend a year or two flying different sites and getting proficient with their wing before XC's in these hills - take it easy and you'll have a longer flying career.
XC days - New for 2008.
New this year will be an 'Introduction to XC' and 'Intermediate XC', a flexible and spontaneous event to target the best of the weather for classic ridge runs through the Lakes. There are 5 natural ridge runs in the Lakes that are proposed at the moment, these face South, Southeast, West, North and East. Because conditions and wind direction are more vital for a successful day, we need to be flexible about the date and therefore will notify those having shown a keen interest by contacting them by mobile or e-mail (your choice) only a few days beforehand. A bit like a 'sleeper cell' if you know what I mean. On the morning of the event you will need to phone the pre-arranged 'guide' for confirmation that it’s still on and where to meet. A bit of logistics with some vehicles, a walk up and then briefing on the hill. Chances are these events will be on weekends but Kitt is available to run midday XC's as well. Self employed eh!
The first 2 options are ‘safer’ introductions to XC. You can choose to miss any of these days out if you are already competent in gale hanging and have bagged numerous 10km flights by yourself. By the way, it would be very helpful if pilots already experienced in making the Clough to Ambleside run voluntered to act as ‘pacers/guides’. There are two other routes for advanced XC ridge runs which capable XC pilots should be very interested in taking part.
Option (1):
The south facing range will introduce capable pilots to XC by flying between Skiddaw and Blencathra, probably encouraging folk to go for distance to finish.
Option (2):
Still a safe option, Barkin Fell (north of Sedbergh) following the Howgills to Ravenstonedale for a pint at the Fat Lamb pub. Best with a south-easterly.
Option (3):
Clough down to Ambleside (NW - W) can be dangerous between Helvelyn and Grassmere so should only be chosen after flying similar XC's to option 1 or 2 quite happily by themselves.
Anyone who has flown Clough to Ambleside numerous times should consider
Option (4): Northerly. Ennerdale down to Great Gable and then back to civilization via the Wastwater Screes. It's my favourite dog leg through the Lakes, but with no
infrastructure it is best undertaken once having mastered route 3.
Option (5): Easterly. Again, for capable / experienced XC pilots. I would like to do this myself. Only got as far as Rosthwaite last time I tried. Old Man of Coniston to ……….. as far as you can go north.
Radios would be useful, and mobiles for contact before and after – especially to count heads at the end of the day. This XC guiding has to rely on you to vet yourself. Warning: Jumping straight into XC is a dangerous notion and your poor decision making will shorten your flying carrier. XC and competition flying are a natural progression having spent many hours on different sites in varying conditions etc. evolving into a confident and capable pilot, 100% in tune with his glider.
If you are keen and relatively flexible to attend, please e-mail me on canddashcroft@hotmail.com or text on 07752750869 choosing 1, 2 or all 3 of the options providing you are ‘fit for purpose’.
Have a good year.
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