There are some very nice advantages to a winch (wouldn't think twice
about getting a launch even if the weather does not look so great, we
had some great fun launching to landing circuit just for the heck of
it when it was raining last summer). We've got a package deal in our
club, unlimited launches for a reasonable price. It's just very
economical (make no mistake though, I do appreciate the convenience of
an aerotow as well). Still, a winch launch will teach you how to make
the best of the conditions as you don't have much time to find a
thermal.

We've got a "factory built" winch from Germany a few years back, top
of the notch with turbos and whatnot- if you're interested, have a
look at http://www.saunalahti.fi/kily/paasivu.htm. Click on "kalusto",
the fourth button on the left frame and then "vintturi" on the right
frame. Sorry, it's all in Finnish :-)

Kind regards,

Antti