The Soaring Engine Vol III
A gliding handbook written by G Dale
This is a must have purchase for both beginners, and seasoned pilots.
Volume three describes how a pilot can learn to achieve a higher standard of performance in any of the soaring disciplines. This entails a knowledge of speed flying techniques, an investigation into the decision making abilities of pilots when under pressure, some suggestions for training, and an outline of the specific requirements for success in competition, distance or record flying.
Combined with the information set out in volume one (the basics of using ridge and thermal lift to soaring in both flatland and mountain terrain) and volume two (wave and convergence systems), the trilogy aims to enable soaring pilots to achieve their goals in any part of the sport they choose to pursue.
Author's website: https://thesoaringengine.co.uk/
G Dale learned to fly at age 20 with the Dorset gliding club, going professional ten years later. He's worked with Lasham, Bristol and Gloucester, the British Gliding Association, Booker gliding club, Lake Keepit and out of Minden until finally discovering the mountains of New Zealand and starting to coach for Glide Omarama. Currently following the endless summer, working in New Zealand, at Lasham, and occasionally in Australia, he's also flying, racing and coaching as often as possible in other places - France, Italy and South Africa this season.
Having owned many sailplanes, he's back right where he started, currently campaigning a Streifenader - modified Libelle 201b with the British Team, club class.