Contests the end-all?

"noel.wade" wrote

I think if people considered basic contest-flying as a challenging
"Cross Country Workshop", it would be far less intimidating and far
more appealing.

I appreciate that point of view. I had suspected as much.

Good point about having to go off in a certain direction, or task. I can
see how that would teach you to deal with different circumstances.

It is hard to understand why there is not more soaring activity in the area
where I live. We are right at the base of the Appalachian Mountains, which
range from 3,500 feet to over 6,000 feet in this area. I often see signs of
standing waves in the clouds when we get a good blow, that go for miles. I
would think there are ample opportunities for ridge soaring. I would
suspect that landing out could be a bit tricky, because of a rarity of
really good flat unwooded places.

Nevertheless, I think I am going to break out and do something different,
and take up soaring. It should be right up my alley. I also want to build.
I will not be complete until I fly a plane that I built with my own hands.
Not a fiberglass plane, either. Wood. I love building with wood. I also
spend much time on the water with my family. There is a river-lake chain
that provides ample opportunity for seaplanes. Perhaps I should build an
amphibious seaplane-motorglider! I understand there are a few designs out
there, already. I was surprised to learn of that! Actually, I am seriously
considering just that plan. Considering the scarcity of towplanes to pull
me up, and the land out situations, and the lack of support systems for
gliders, a self launching ship makes a lot of sense. I can also see the
plane getting a lot more use if I could use it around the water.

So, this is your next assignment, group. Point me at amphibious -
seaplane - motorglider designs that can be built at home, or if you are not
able to meet every one of those qualifications, point me at designs that
come close in most ways - or in some ways. I always learn something from
looking at designs, it seems. Perhaps what you offer will help me narrow
the choices, or find ways to modify something out there, or, or...... well,
you get the picture.

Anyway, onwards. Keep the answers coming, everyone! I am enjoying hearing
your opinions and viewpoints, and am learning from your postings.
--
Jim in NC