The only downside was quite a few scary landings, the result of a
finish line, many pilots finishing the timed task at the same time,
limited space on the airport, sink on final glide putting many in a
low energy situation, and downwind rolling finishes conflicting with
regular landings. Lots of held breath, but thankfully no damage.

John Cochrane BB


John, I'm curious: In what way do you think the line finish (as
opposed to a 500' @ one mile, for example) contributed to the scary
landings?

From your description, the problem seems to be more a lack of airport
runway (or landable ramp) space.

Perhaps this needs to be a bigger consideration for a contest site -
it should be able to land multiple gliders simultaneously and safely,
regardless of finish used.

Multiple runways, big unused ramps (old military fields are great!),
wide grass runways/ramps, etc. sure are nice when everybody gets back
at the same time.

Parowan, for example, could be sporty if a bunch of gliders tried to
land at the same time (from personal experience back in 2001 before
the new taxiway was built - perhaps its better now).

You going to be at Ionia?

Kirk
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