MG Fricktal Gliding Weekend

Model gliding in the mountains is gaining popularity here as well, so this year a impressive total of 39 members and their guests took part. Thanks to active efforts to encourage young talent, the younger generation was once again well represented with new participants. Most gathered at the Grosse Scheidegg on Saturday morning, though some had already arrived on Friday to take advantage of that day for flying.

The event was once again perfectly organized by our president, Thomas Gruner, though he didn’t have quite as much luck with the weather this year. On Saturday, the Grosse Scheidegg was shrouded in thick fog—contrary to the weather forecast and the better conditions down in the valley. However, since the wind was strong enough, this did not deter the young pilots in particular from flying their “foam waffles” in the fog and intermittent light rain. Not even the cold could dampen these pilots’ spirits. The majority of participants, however, were hoping for an improvement in the weather and kept themselves busy preparing their models and programming the remote controls. They compared different methods of transmitter programming and exchanged experiences. Even “economics” wasn’t neglected in this weather. By evening, everyone was hungry—even those who hadn’t exactly shone in their flying. So everyone looked forward to the delicious and hearty dinner. By the time the dessert buffet was ready, the wind had finally cleared the fog, and so the question arose for some: “Dessert or flying?” The restaurant gradually emptied out. First, the calories had to be earned! Unfortunately (or fortunately), the wind died down after a good half hour, so dessert was on the menu after all. This was followed by socializing, and many a model-aircraft story made the rounds late into the night. With his electric aerobatic biplane, Andi Haller once again demonstrated his exceptional flying skills during a night flight. As a result, the night was very short for some, but getting up was well worth it. The weather was absolutely beautiful, and the morning air was fresh and cool. It was simply wonderful, as this promised ideal gliding weather. So the model aviators gathered for breakfast in high spirits. After breakfast, everyone set off—at varying speeds—for a nearby hilltop suitable for all wind directions. Starting around noon, strong thermals developed at times, so that everyone really got a chance to fly. At times, there were about 20 gliders in the air. This required discipline on the part of the pilots to avoid collisions. All types of gliders were represented, from HLGs and EPP Nuris to scale gliders and F3X competition models. The first electric helicopter was also spotted on the mountain. For Fabian Bersier, it was a completely new experience to fly his helicopter among its peers for once! There were always models in the air, and so Sunday unfortunately passed far too quickly. Later in the afternoon, the first members set off for home, satisfied and looking forward to next year’s gliding weekend.

Michael Oraschnigg,
MG Fricktal
Photos: Silvan Borer,
Fabian Bersier