What is your club doing to recruit new contest pilots?

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

I agree Luke, I belong to a small club (35) with only 2-33's 1-26 and a 1-34, over the past couple of years I have encouraged 1 20yo 2 58yo and 2 65yo to purchase their own glass ships and to start some modest xc. Contests are still a little out of there skill level but I am hopeful and I try to continully invite them to the ASA races as they are a no pressure race venue to get aquainted with rules and procedures. The club ships rarely go xc as there is a 1hour time limit if people are waiting. I try and emphasize the need to get there silver badge most importantly, the 5 hour duration.

CH ASW27 and Ventus B (for sale)