When the SSA moved to Hobbs in the 80's, Hobbs was the center of the U.S.
soaring universe. A world championship had just been held there, and it was
where every glider pilot dreamed of flying out of for pleasure of competition.
At that point, the buildings remoteness did not seem so far fetched.
Now, I fear that Hobbs is a dying sight. The recent implosion of the NSF, as
well as having a well run, but truly disappointing (Weather wise) Standard
class nationals will not be forgotten in the near future. There are simply too
many large egos down there competing with each other to make it a viable
solution for holding contests in the near future.
On the other hand, the city is FULLY supportive of the soaring movement. Can
anyone else recall being at a glider contest where each contest got at least a
full front page article in the sports section of the local paper, and the
contest results broadcast on radio and TV every day, right along with baseball
and basketball scores?
My point is this; without Hobbs as a sight for large contests and get
together, having our headquarters down there is pretty much useless and
inconvenient for everyone. I believe that the soaring sight, and the SSA
headquarters are joined at the hip. Either someone needs to step in and
revitalize Hobbs as a soaring sight, or I fear that both that beautiful
airport, as well as our national headquarters are doomed to fail.
-Mitch