Nepal Tour 2008 - Day 2

We started the day a bit earlier today with a plan to get a gentle flight in first before the stronger conditions started up.

I launched first with the intention to fly down and help Evangeline land (it was her first solo flight since Hawaii last year!).

The house thermal was producing some smooth thermals so I boated around waiting for her to launch.

It would be an understatement to say that I was surprised by Evangeline's natural skill in the air. She followed me adeptly and soon was the highest glider in the sky (and that is where she stayed until we all decided to land so that we could go back up for another). Great job Evangeline!

Cornell, Brett, and Lee had good flights with Cornell joining Evangeline and I at the peak.

Back up for round two and the thermal cycles were much stronger on launch. Our guide Jamie went first and reported 'ratty' thermals down low and increasing cloud on the backrange. Cornell and Lee both launched and climbed out. And then it was Brett's turn.

Let's just say that Brett put on a launch show complete with tree slaloming. You'll have to ask him for details in person. After getting into the air, he regained his composure and displayed good piloting skill as he soared in and out of the house thermal.

Evangeline forward launched next and conditions changed soon afterwards with more of a valley wind and punchy thermals. Again she flew well and worked her way up to Jamie's altitude before everyone headed out to land.

In the Tea Shop LZ the wind was good for kiting and the low rice paddy walls added an extra challenge.

To make a great day even better, a big rain storm blew through just as we got back to our hotel. Perfect timing!