Great write-up. I've also learned the importance of a well briefed experienced wing runner, and letting it sit wings level "until the sloshing noise stops" before takeoff. I do have one question, however. How does extended spoilers improve aileron response? They're inboard of the ailerons on a standard class glider, and therefore should have zero aerodynamic effect on ailerons, except for contributing to total drag and reducing acceleration...(probably an impercievable amount at low speeds, since weight and stationary inetia is the larger factor to overcome, not parasitic drag). I've seen many people use this technique in contest flying, and I never understood it. The only argument that I could maybe see is giving some drag stability, much like hanging out the landing gear does to a large aircraft. And even then, it just adds complexity to an already high workload segment of the flight.

Again, I think your post is both informative and a great pointer for anyone staring to carry water ballast or inexperienced in flying a CG hook. I'm mainly just curious as to why people use the spoiler on takeoff technique.

Jordan