Goal: To determine the exact location of our spin point.
When flying slowly, such as during thermalling, it is crucial to be able to identify when our wing is on the verge of spinning. Throughout this course, we will practice this skill in a safe manner.
Slow spin
Exercise 1:
- Apply both brakes to slow down the wing.
- While keeping the outside brake steady, apply more inside brake.
- Focus on the inside wingtip.
- The moment you notice the wingtip departing from flight, release both brakes.
- Observe.
- Catch and release.
Exercise 2:
- Apply both brakes to reach the minimum speed.
- Pull hard on one brake to initiate the spin, while releasing the other.
- Hold down the brake on the spinning side for a brief moment.
- Quickly release.
- Observe.
- Catch and release.
Exercise 3:
- Apply both brakes to reach the minimum speed.
- Pull hard on one brake to initiate the spin, while releasing the other.
- Increase the duration of holding down the brake on the spinning side.
- Quickly release.
- Observe.
- Catch and release.
Trim Speed Spin
Similar to slowed down variation, we will also work on just punching it through without slowing down the wing, this will increase the energy of the wings movment.
We will repeat these exercises, gradually increasing the duration of the wing's spin, until we achieve a full 180-degree spin.
Once the Spins are clean and the exits are also clean, we can then swing under the wing and in the next back pitch spin it again, to connect multiple spins one after the other.
By understanding the spin point, we will be able to utilize spinning to avoid collisions.
Cravat Clearing
Goal: To be able to clear wingtip cravats mid flight.
Slow down both sides of the wing, pierce one side into spin/stall - let it fly.