Yes, it had just rained a little bit and was still sprinkling just a
bit. *They were not perfect conditions but was not gusty. *When I was
getting the glider ready the wind was stronger down the runway. *Once
I was ready for takeoff it had calmed a bit and was more cross.

Today's airfoils are less sensitive to rain/bugs than the older
sections. But I would still think long and hard before launching with
raindrops on the wing...especially if it were still sprinkling
rain...especially heavy...especially with what could have been a
marginal towplane...especially with a green towpilot...especially on
what was apparently a shorter, unpaved strip...especially with a
crosswind instead of a headwind...especially on a hot day...especially
if it were my first time carrying a lot of water.

Maybe I'm just getting old and overly cautious. I have plenty of
"there I was at 100 ft. over the trees with the stick in my lap
watching the towplane climbing away from me" stories. I don't need any
more.

Chip Bearden
ASW 24 "JB"
U.S.A.