Lessons / seasonal soaring

I'm in the middle of taking lessons - only 8 lessons deep thus far. Despite the delays (operation only open on weekends, weather lousy, weddings to attend, etc) I seem to be progressing nicely.

I was hoping to solo by the end of the gliding season here in NJ. But at my current rate that won't happen. Furthermore, if I can manage to solo (I don't want to push it) it would leave me with several months off. The place just a few miles from my house closes in November. There's a place an hour from me that's open year round - same operation I believe, different location. It'll be much harder for me to get up there, but I would like to do it every 2-3 weeks.

I'm just curious how other students out there deal with the seasonal aspect of soaring... if they have to deal with it at all.

It has been my experience that you will get more training in the 'off season' than in the soaring season. It is a common phenomenon that fair weather pilots seem to find more to do away from the airfield during the winter. The availability of gliders is higher, flights are shorter and come soaring season you will be ready to go. JMHO.

Hey you remind me of a guy I know! Jim, flying in the 'off' season will definately speed things up. First of all you won't have to wait for a ship. Aside from that you will be able to focus on the tow and landing, since you will only have time for a few manuevers, turns/stalls.... Somehow knowing that the flight is shorter squeezes alot of learning in that 12-15 minutes. There is less traffic in the air, and everything is alot less hectic. Some of my best lessons were in January or February, just remember to wear thermals and bring gloves and a hat!