Gary Osoba, WRE Founder, <wosoba> writes:

Thermaling the Tight Gaggle -

For the 2009 WRE, an extra feature will be instruction in thermaling the tight gaggle. Experts will give instruction on key tactics which result in maximum climb rates, while observing proper spacing and other safety parameters. After discussing the need for such skills and recent examples (both good and bad outcomes), participants will practice proper spacing with simple walking exercises. As seen in the illustration, emphasis at this phase will consist of two key elements:

1) Maintaining proper differential spacing

2) Demonstrating a positive, "eyes open" attitude

Once the initial phase has been mastered, instruction will focus on smaller groups of participants in a faster moving venue. Bicycles will be used to simulate thermaling velocities, and a special inclined velodrome will be used. The emphasis on this phase of the instruction will be:

1) Again, the importance of proper spacing

2) Strategies for varying positions within the gaggle, and the implications

3) The advantages of aerodynamic clothing, even at low thermaling speeds

No doubt the skills developed by the WRE participants will prove to be helpful at all ensuing performance-based events, and certainly at the upcoming Big Spring bash. A follow-on instructional program will be presented by David Glover there. The WRE is happy to provide this bonus seminar to the 2009 participants.