I was reading this thread in befuddlement, until I saw the post
suggesting leaving
the catheter on for an entire multi-day contest.

When I saw that I realized the problem some of you are having, and why
I myself
do not have any trouble just yanking those things off on the occasions
I use them.

The key here is, as usual in aviation-related matters, training.

The adhesive used on catheters is designed to adhere properly to skin
that has been
somewhat toughened and conditioned by regular use. It would seem many
of you are not
being diligent, especially in the off-season, with a vigorous regimen
to maintain fitness
in this particular area.

The fact that someone would consider leaving a catheter on for a whole
contest shows
this in glaring detail. Unthinkable! Currency must be maintained!

We must all be sure that we get our wives and/or girlfriends up to
speed with this as well.
They need to be made to understand the crucial role they play in making
soaring safe and
enjoyable for us, not only by approving expensive purchases of
uncomprehensible "stuff",
but by joining with us to keep us up to the physical challenges of
soaring.

This would seem like a great inclusion to the otherwise excellent "Back
in the Saddle" (BITS) seminar held in region 12 each year...

quietman "ZR"
www.roenation.com