Friday, January 17, 2014

OTB

The day dawned sunny and warm, with what looked like great flying potential. 
We ate ham omelets with cheese, and strong Colombian coffee. We jumped in the Toyota and made our way to launch. There was wind up top and we felt it on launch. This is not typical of a good day. 
We got our gear ready and waited patiently for an hour or more until finally the sun came out and the thermal heat blocked the wind just long enough to get is all off in two groups. A few other pilots launched too, a few did not. We ran to the flats to escape the turbulence of the mountain. Half the group landed near Roldanillo and got rides back. 
Brad and I found a good climb to 8,000' and crossed the valley fast (13 mph tailwind) to the east side with Will and Brian close behind. We arrived at the city of Zarzal and circled with vultures in the strong wind, careful not to drift away from a soccer field we chose to land in.  Will landed first, then Brad, Brian and me. 
A reception of kids were waiting for each of us as we landed. They were curious of my blue eyes and asked that I remove my sunglasses to see them for themselves. 
We said our good-byes, walked a block to the bus stop, hopped on the first one to Roldanillo  where we had a nice lunch.
Half a chicken with rice and beans, small salad and potatoes.  Yum! After eating we caught a bus back to La Union and then a tuk-tuk to the hotel.  A dip in the pool was the ticket before dinner.  I love this place. Our guests arrive tomorrow night. We are ready to go. Cheers!