Soaring's decline SSA club poll

I can agree with what Bruce says about communication - and cost. It is
also about creating the right atmosphere that will keep people coming
back. We have quite a few members who drive 300km from Johannesburg
(or even further from Pretoria) to fly at our club (Gold Fields
Gliding Club – www.ggc.co.za). There are clubs far closer - but
some are perceived to be expensive and snobbish. The fact that we have
a fantastic fleet also helps (3*K7, K13, ASK 21, ASK 23, ASW 19 and
ASW 20). The club is also very focused on training and socialising.
Meals are provided most Saturdays and most of the people, who travel
far, stay the night and make a weekend of it. The club has its own
airfield and facilities, which creates a very favourable perception to
visitors. The fleet and equipment is well maintained. Flying is cheap
but we do not cut corners in providing safe and efficient flying.

The one benefit of having a good fleet is that members are encouraged
to stay flying at the club long after receiving their basic training.
So often the feeling is that if a person cannot afford a private
glider - there is no future for soaring as a sport as one cannot
progress to flying cross-country etc. We have members attempting 300km
flights in the ASK 23, and the ASK 21 is becoming a regular at
competitions (including the Nationals). This is by members who have
not yet accumulated enough experience to fly the ASW 19 and 20. Once a
member does his 5 hours – and completes his 50km – he is
encouraged to head out following the more experienced pilots.

High quality and dedicated instruction is also vital. There is nothing
more demoralising than arriving to fly and not having an instructor
available (no flying is allowed until a qualified instructor is on the
field). At our club - instruction is seen as a privilege and is by
invitation. The plus side is lots of free flying, and the chance to
perfect ones' skills on the student's account.

Monthly newsletters with the accounts, commitee and instructors
meetings and a excellent web page all contribute to a well run and
professional operation. All members are informed of all the activities
taking place at the club - as well as any incidents that have an
impact on safety. The club becomes the focal point for many of the
members social lives (not much else happens in the Free State).
Friendships and companionship also spread to the wives and kids as
well.

Clinton Birch
LAK 12