I started my Super Bowl Sunday afternoon with a tow to 3000'. Upon release I unlocked the gear lever and pulled it back firmly. About 1 inch short of the closed-position lock and still pulling hard, I gave up and started thermalling. I learned how to fly with the gear down, I can do it again.

A half hour later and 1000' higher I gave it another try. At a half inch short, I cleared my air, tweaked the trim, let go of the stick, and tried both hands. No luck. Hating to lose, I kept pulling, and pulling and pulling. Questionable judgment, bad decision. 1600 feet later (as in lower), I gave up and locked it down again.

All of which reminded me of the difference between frustration and panic:
a.. frustration (n) The first time you can't get it up the second time.
b.. panic (n) The second time you can't get it up the first time.
The club manager gave me a good tip for getting it up the first time next time, so hopefully there won't be Pegasus Gear Panic.

-ted c. "to z or not to z" w.