I think you're missing a few points. Here's an example: Harris Hill is an extraordinary historical repository for glider pilots. The weather is sometimes dodgy... but what's more fun, doing 200 miles on a day when no one else goes cross country, or doing 300 miles on a day when everyone else does 500?

The area is really safe because it's filled with airports. The weather is challenging, leading to a learning experience on every flight. The takeoff over a cliff is breathtaking. And when you land, you're surrounded by great camaraderie, amazing history, and a really beautiful landscape.

So... don't just look at the numbers. There's more to gliding than just distance.