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Old August 24th 16, 06:36 AM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Ramy[_2_]
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Default Transcontinental

I've been thinking about it ever since I participated in the return to Kitty Hawk race, which turned into a trailer race at some point.
The only thing stopping me is work. This is the first thing I would like to do once I retire. If I don't own a motorglider by then, I will need a tow plane to follow me, which means will need sponsorship to cover some of the cost.
My plan is to fly coast to coast in 100% soaring. No racing involved. The start of each leg will need to be at the same spot of the end of last leg, or before. Start and end will need to follow FAI requirement for altitude loss to ensure a soaring flight and not a sled ride. Probably some minimum distance as well. Very simple. Some legs may need to be repeated entirely if landing in a field which not suitable for tow. The most important thing is 100% pure soaring from coast to coast. I don't believe this was ever done before.
I figure this is doable in one season, starting from California in May. If soaring conditions cooperate I think it is doable in 1 month or less. Sure it took Alby 6 years, but mostly since it was seating sometime the whole season waiting for tow plane/qualified pilot/crew/perfect weather all to be available at the same time....
Assuming one can tow anytime and is qualified, all you need is good enough weather to make the next airport. Can't be too difficult.
The hardest part may be to find sponsorship?

Ramy