We had it happen here a few years ago.
A very experienced pilot and single ground crew driving our tow car on a
week day with no one else around.
The glider was totaled and the pilot suffered serious injuries.
Maybe ok in a 2-33.
I got away with it once in an SHK but I don't think I would try it again.
Cheers!


"F.L. Whiteley" wrote in message
...
Having ground looped once on a winch launch (inexperienced wing runner and
tall grass) I doubt I would ever consider this on grass or dirt. A paved
surface might be okay with a very experienced pilot. A wings level assist
would be good, but might be moot if the up slack just pulled the glider
off
the leveler. Holding a glider with airbrake/wheelbrake combo level
doesn't
seem prudent. The more bothersome aspect is the lack of another set of
eyes
to visually check the launch zone for encroachment.

Think I'd prefer to file this in my never do list (from a winch driver
perspective).
'Never winch launch unassisted'
'Never winch launch downwind'

Frank

"goneill" wrote in message
...
The point is this "cartwheel scenario" has happened before.
I believe there was a case in Europe not that long ago.
gary
"Mark Newton" wrote in message
...
In article ,
"goneill" wrote:

You need to be "very very" quick on release if the down wing
does not move forward with the winch launch as the upper wing
starts flying and lifts up and can throw the glider/you into an
end over end cartwheel,

You don't start with a "down wing". You prop the wings so
they're level.

- mark