I don't understand why anyone would even consider an "S" turn to be appropriate. All turns should be *away* from the ridge. The only safe way I know to attempt to thermal off a ridge below ridge top is to fly "figure eight" turns. This never points you at the ridge at a steep angle.

I just didn't understand the accident report when I read it first. A figure 8 turn puts the wings parallel to the ridge twice every complete turn but the glider is headed *away* from the ridge each time and NEVER towards it.

Andy