Graham Hodgson wrote in message ...
What aircraft did you do your silver distance qualifying
50k flight in?


I did all three legs in a Schweizer 1-34.



John Cochrane wrote:

( Gold means "I've done a
really substantial cross country flight. I'm ready to go to a
contest." )

I really take don't think that earning a gold badge has anything to do
with contests.
Not everyone who is into Soaring is interested in contest flying.

I think a "Gold" badge means a pilot has improved his skills to the
point where he can
comfortably navigate across country, keep his ship in the air for an
extended duration
and can gain significant altitude above his release point.

By completing the FAI minimums to complete this badge the pilot can
wear this insignia
as a sign to others of his proficiancy, or as an award to himself for
having achieved this
significant milestone in his soaring career.