It is my opinion that to recruit pilots in their 30's and 40's clubs have to sow the seeds when the candidates are in their teens and 20's. Once hooked and established in adult life the pilot will come back to the sport.

To succeed clubs must encourage young pilots to fly cross country and take part in contests. The single most important factor is access to a glider with a serviceable trailer. Off-field landings should not be frowned upon - they are a normal part of flying without an engine.

Luke Szczepaniak