Video from Day 1 of Region 4 North 2012

Jim,

I did see this particular pilot coming basically all the way from the thermal behind me, a small gaggle maybe 4 miles back. I certainly do not see all of them, but in this case I saw him coming. I think he saw me, but its much easier to be aggressive when you have energy and can pick your spot to pull up in the circling gliders thermal. To him it probably felt fine. But for me I feel like a sitting duck as you do not know for sure if the guy see's you. If you keep going with your turn and loose sight, and he does not see me, the next thing I hear might be a massive bang. Scary stuff.

The FLARM warning was impressive in this case (as it usually is)! I am also blessed with 20/10 vision and a fairly intense desire to use it to the best of its ability.

In terms of vision obstructions, believe it or not, none of the equipment (FLARM portable, Nano or camera's) on the top of the panel are outside the panel or canopy structure from a viewing perspective. The Flarm is just touching it although the antenna's are in the canopy a bit. I have a long torso and my head is right at the top of the glider. Of course the PDA and a bit of the Colibri II obstruct some view for sure. Mainly the PDA.

Thanks for your input. I fully expect potential criticism. I have very thick skin. Its the best way to learn. For example, I received an email pointing out that I had a heavy left foot within minutes of posting the video for example!

A few more video's will be coming out of the next couple weeks.

Best,

Sean