I share John Sinclair's view.


At the risk of being labeled a 'Luddite' (see UK Industrial Revolution), and
stirring up a hornets nest, may I suggest to all pilots possessing pockets
deeper than the depth of their ability, that getting more gadgets on the
panel will do little to improve your knowledge, judgment, or skill as a
pilot though, like Viagra, they may well improve your performance.



Please do not misunderstand me: I am astonished and incredibly impressed
with the progress of all technology, not least glider design and
instrumentation. Now we have 'Thermi'... There is no stopping progress:
more strength to it - and to the many helpful suppliers who keep us informed
on this forum! But it seems to me that with the enormous strides in
technology, winning Regional, National, and International Contests today is
less dependent on pilot ability - despite 'Class' definition - and more
dependent upon using the latest 'cutting edge' equipment, be it hull or
instruments. More importantly, the cost of this is beyond the reach of many
(most?) would-be talented pilots. This is not to deny the prowess of
National and World-class Champion pilots who stretch the envelope and
exploit the new tools to the maximum They deserve their titles - but at what
price? The cost of a state-of-the-art panel today will buy a SG 1-26 - and
as a measure of pilot ability rather than size of billfold, check out the
number of pilots who have gained all three Diamonds in a 1-26.



This state of affairs has, of course, always been, and always will be so,
but as soaring technology accelerates, so also does the inability to afford
it in the eyes of the would-be pilot. On the one hand we acclaim the latest
(costly) soaring records, and on the other we deplore the decline of the
sport.



We are in danger of becoming more polarized. If we are really serious about
attracting newcomers to the sport we must place more emphasis on the
affordability of owning and flying gliders, competing, and plain having fun
on a budget within the reach of the man/woman in the street who is seeking
adventure.



Much worthwhile sponsored effort has been expended on introducing youth to
soaring - but how many can continue, what follow through?



If we want a less costly and more level playing field in which to compete,
look to the 1-26 Association and the World Class PW5 Contests. Let us bring
back the Olympic spirit and measure the pilot not the pocket. That's the
spirit we should light a fire under!



Maybe, just maybe, that's the way to grow the movement AND produce World
Champions!



And now I'll shut up.



Lou Frank



"John Sinclair" wrote in message
...
I look at soaring's lack of groth from a purely economic
point of view. When I got into the sport (1970) one
could buy a competitive sailplane for about the cost
of a 4-door family car ($10,000) Now days a competitive
sailplane costs almost 5 times as much as the family
car. Little wonder we can't attract new blood.
JJ