How Low to Spin??

Chris OCallaghan wrote:
Andy,

I guess my only comment is a question: Does it really make any
difference in what you see? Framing wires against the sky (if that's
your intent) requires being lower than the wires. Which in turn means
you are at risk of hitting other wires.

What is the genesis of this approach? It clearly requires advanced
energy management skills, so it isn't appropriate for low time pilots
(the majority) or lower peformance sailplanes. Was it suggested by
someone, or is it someplace you arrived through time and experience?

I'll give it a try at the home drome during my next few flights. But I
guess I'm still having trouble determining what advantage I have by
flying a base and final leg low and fast. Would you apply the same
method for an approach over tall trees? Even if it meant losing sight
of your intended touch down point during much of the final leg?

I'm not agreeing or disagreeing with Andy yet, but
let's consider for a moment the psychological effect of
this idea: perhaps it helps focus the pilot on the
objects between the glider and the intended touchdown.
Or helps orient the pilot to the type of terrain found
on the way in, or gets him lower so it's easier to determine wind
direction from small cues on the ground.

Again, I'm not advocating the idea, but there are some more
subtle points...
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Mark Boyd
Avenal, California, USA