wrote:
Now, the airspeed indicator .... once
airborne, it really isn't a big deal - especially with some practice
and familiarity with the glider.

Not if it fails on a winch launch! Mine worked enough to show a flifker
on the ground, but stuck after I rotated. This got my attention,
particularly as the launch then felt slow (though of course I had no way
of checking). I think my decision to climb less steeply was the right
one - even if you're overspeeding on the winch, at a reduced angle of
attack you're less likely to do any damage and can always release if
it's clear from the sound and feel that you're really motoring.

Once I was in free flight, the circuit and landing were no problem,
especially as I know the aircraft well.