@heartathome Gliding was one of the peak experiences of my life. It was just a weekend with a girl from school when I was 16. The one pushing ... the norty norty ... stuff ... lol ... Her stepfather was trying to give her some fun, and I got lucky to be invited. She still hated him. I have a good memory.
We were in 2 seaters. First time instructor flew, the rest of the times, I could sit in the front and do it myself. I learned a lot, and was doing physics etc at the time, so valued the practicalities.
They flew tandem for take off ... then the tow plane released the glider when it reached sufficient speed and altitude. There was a little dip when released and I was taught to angle the stick so the glider nose went up and we would go look for updrafts, over dams and water ways etc... Some of the flights went 20-30 minutes. The glider had dual controls so the instructor had ability to over ride if I made mistakes.
We also practiced recovery from stalls which were very exciting. falling speed, and turning the plane. It was a long time ago. But grateful. Thanks for asking me and giving me the opportunity to remember.
I guess it made sense that I began motor bike riding the next year. Never had a car or a dad or anything. Just made the best of what was there.
Had a bike chat last week to my nephew who is getting into dirt bikes. He asked me if I was a thrill seeker. I dont really think I was. There was too much mechanics involved and my bikes were small, tho my RD400 was a bit zippy. It was more about staying afloat ... and being connected in the world that was. .. haha mixing me metaphors. I had about 4 invitations from girls in the last 2 years of school. That was the best one. I am guessing my hypervigilance was switched on a lot and I was also used to being in coping mode. Thats more what it felt like, than thrills. I just didnt have enough money or social support. Just fitting in. It was about keeping real in my social circumstances. I have more psychological language about it now, than back when I was a kid.
@REDLINEZ750 Hi just tagging you over here ... thought you might appreciate the story.
