My godfather belongs to a gliding club, and I have been saying for months that I would go and fly with him. But life just got in the way, and we could never decide on a date when we were both free. Well, a few weeks ago his club held a family and friends day, and miraculously I was free, so jumped at the chance!
I had never seen a glider close up, and couldn't believe how small they are! I was also really intrigued by the fact that the glider is attached to a rope, which a machine pulls so it goes up in the air. The rope then drops off, and the glider does what you would expect - glide!
My instructor (think his name we Brian) spent a while attaching a parachute to me and showing me how it worked. He said: 'If I say bail out and you say what? you will be talking to yourself.' Needless to say this filled me with confidence! He then jumped in the back of the glider, which really confused me! I didn't realise that the instructor sat behind the learner!
For my first flight I was told to sit back and enjoy the views, and get used to how a glider feels. It was strange! You get a fast rush as you are towed along the ground and up into the air, and then it is really peaceful. I was expecting the landing to be bumpy, and braced myself, but it was quite smooth really.The second time around I was allowed to control the glider and fly it! The controls are very sensitive, and you only have to move it gently. I am quite rough, and when he told me to turn to the left I yanked it hard and almost sent us into a spin! Once my instructor had recovered the glider and got his nerves back he let me try again - this time I was much more gentle.
I really enjoyed the experience, and would love to go again! The next time my godfather said he will send me up with someone who will do some aerobatics!
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