http://vuelolibre.mx/el_penon_2012/index.html

http://vuelolibre.mx/el_penon_2012/resultados.htm

Jeff Shapiro <<up.si.down>>
writes:

After dealing with a severe stomach bug (acquired before I got here) over the
first two days, I had the pleasure of taking one of the classic tours of the
area today, flying with some of the most accommodating and friendly pilots in
the world. I can't overemphasize how welcoming the pilots here in Valle De Bravo
have been.

The conditions were booming and the convergence lined up so, we were able to
race a bit of a basket weave at the start with the Sport class pilots, giving
the newer competitors a chance to fly in groups and to learn some race strategy.
When they (Sport class) headed for a well deserved goal, we continued with a
long leg toward the Nevado de Toluca, past the monarch sanctuary.

Rudy, Rodrigo, David and I were racing under clouds at 14,000+' (not even close
to base), experiencing a little sleet and rain close to the turn point. Might
sound a little strange that that would be considered spectacular but, it wasn't
enough to cause concern and somehow made everything look more beautiful.

We turned and raced back over Valle to the mountains and after taking another
turnpoint, crossed the broad valley in front of launch before turning around for
a sprint to goal. 143ks and very strong lift and fast racing. Getting to know
this area a little has made me already sure I will be back.

This comp has been very well organized, safe and very fun. Looks like we're
going to have perfect days every day of the comp. Antibiotics are on board and
I'm looking forward to the locals showing me around again for the last 2 days.

Jeff Shapiro<<up.si.down>>
writes later:

On the first day, I was 10 minutes in front and started feeling more than
horrible. Had to land and started puking my guts out. It was all a blur that
first day between vomiting and dehydration, I was floored the next day. Slept
all day. Flew the next day (yesterday) but threw up three times in the air and
once after landing. Still had a good flight though, as strange as that sounds.

Today, we had another good task called and 1000-1500 fpm to 13,500' but after
grabbing the first three turnpoints, it overdeveloped and the rain and
lightening on course stopped the task. I don't think we got nominal so, I'm
pretty sure it's a cancelled day. Still a really fun flight. Strong lift but as
it developed, it got really smooth. Ended up landing at the lake and eating ice
cream.