Goodly number of wings on the hill, both PGs and HGs. Forecast was for the wind to pick up, so no surprise that on arrival there was already a tangible level of urgency. Well, amongst the PGs.

I procrastinated with the usual faff; helping others take off in the windy conditions, not quite getting the flight-deck sorted, and making doubly sure my heated gloves were working. By the time I took to the air the early birds had made several attempted to leave huddled in weak climbs, none showing the promise needed to commit to going over the back.

I had one or two attempts in reasonable climbs near take off then found something good enough to go with. Although high, I very quickly realised the day was not going to be straightforward. For me at least. Just about ridge height over the back, I watched as two small gaggles sailed overhead at base. Eventually I found something steady and was joined by Nick. We both made good our climb to base and caught the second gaggle.

The clouds seemed to be working well, but some of the glides we long and uncomfortably sinky. The gaggle worked well together, but as the day passed we drifted apart as lift became more challenging and lift lines less defined.

Down a couple of Ks past Rhayader I couldn't believe my luck as Ashley pulled up only a few minutes after I'd started walking. "Lift to Aberystwyth? " Fantastic! On arriving I then got a seat on the 'pilot party bus' bound for the Malverns - Back to the car by 7ish and home by 8. Result! -)

Looks like I'll have to increase my personal target from 2hrs flying to 4!