Bert Willing wrote:

First of all, if the weak link breaks, the overload would be 33% (I don't
know what you do to get 50-75%).
Secondly, the point is not to get the weak link breaking at all. As long
as you stay within the limits of max winch tow speed, the overload is
zero. You might be not aware, but there is a good number of clubs who
don't use any weak links _at all_ (or launch marshalls...).

And I stand my point - it is my responsability to deal with my security,
my insurance and my legal authorities. Good luck? Go tell that to those
who had an accident initiated by a weak link failure. After 25 years of
flying, I still have to learn about a case of structural overload during
winch launch. However, I can accept that if I don't fly my glider, that I
am imposed to the owner's rules.

Interesting. I find it odd that German rules, which are often clearly more
strict than other soaring environs, would allow this departure.

Frank