Prairie Mountain: Mission Complete

After months of wanting to, I've finally flown Prairie Mountain!

A couple nights ago at the Thanksgiving dinner at the Mullers, a few pilots discussed hiking up Prairie the next morning to fly. Sure enough, yesterday morning I got a phone call that said "it was on"!

Hiking up mountains with 50 pounds on your back is annoying, but the prospect of flying always makes things seem better and tends to "lessen the load" (wow, I'm full of bad puns). The hike with my pack was actually better than expected, but I still wouldn't call it easy. I'm developing some nice bruises kind of by my shoulders where the straps of my pack were - lovely!

Anyway, at the top, the winds seemed pretty decent. The wind was slightly switchy with some good cycles. The first guy launched, hunted for some lift, then headed for the LZ. I launched, found a bit of lift right after taking off, and then did some of my own hunting. I tried thermalling a tiny thermal by the spine of Prairie, but I didn't hang out there too much, as I didn't want to get too low.

The air was surprisingly choppy, but in a sense, I think that's what I need to fly in right now. Smooth air is nice, but you don't really learn much sitting in your harness looking around. Don't get me wrong, the views are always spectacular, and you feel peaceful sitting up there in your own little swing...I think when the air is silky, you also tend to appreciate the sport more. On the other hand though, I think active piloting is what develops your skills and confidence.

My landing was alright - too bad I didn't have enough height for wingovers! Oh well, next time.

I especially enjoyed flying with a new bunch of pilots who I haven't really flown with before. All of them had quite a bit more experience than I did, and they were really helpful and a lot of fun. I hope to do some more flying with these guys (and girl!) in the future.

One more time, I FLEW OF PRAIRIE!!!!!!