by Frontman » Fri Mar 06, 2009 12:27 am
(edit- after re-reading my post, I wanted to add that although I am new to the site, I do have over 75 flights and almost 10 hours logged. I just don't want anyone assuming that my first flights at Funston were the same day that I earned my H2)
First, I'd like to thank all the Funston pilots that have spent time with me, either in lecture, or walking the LZ etc.
As a new pilot, and as an H2, I can give you firsthand and current information on how a new H2 feels.
Ratings, I'm finding, are but a rough guidline regarding pilot skills. I do not envy the responsibility of any instructors or Funston mentor types have when launching a new pilot at the site. What I can say, is some people are ready, some are not. As an H2 that has soared and traveled to Westlake, I can say that the site is awesome, and that I have respect for it's dangers. I can also say that landing on the beach absolutely sucks, but I feel that it is an important "Right of Passage" for any and all new pilots. You must know how to land on the beach if the lift dies out. Landing on the beach all through your H2 status? Brutal.
I feel that certain H2 pilots should be allowed access to Westlake when lower risk conditions are present. As stated here before, new pilots long for experience and hours in the air. Learning to fly at Sled Heaven, on my 8 min flights, does teach me launch and landing skills, but just about the time I'm settled in my harness and comfortable flying, it's time to land. My 2nd flight at Funston I logged 3 hours, and learned SO much it was awesome. However, since I am now denied access to Westlake, I'm really not even jazzed about flying there again until I earn my H3. Let's face it, is not altitude our friend when it comes to making mistakes? Why would I want to fly the bowls, 50ft off the ground, as a newbie?
I agree on having all new pilots to the sight, regardless of rating, to sport a streamer designating them as a new pilot. Most sports have the same, such as go kart racers putting a big X on the newbie's helmet so as not to scare the shit out of them.
I'm not asking for rule changes. I'm simply telling you of my impressions of the site as an H2. I feel very lucky to fly the site as an H2, and always have an open ear when a veteran pilot speaks. However, if I had my choice, I'd let me soar to Westlake, again, providing the conditions were permitting, and at a certain point, start teaching me to top land.
I do think it should be mandatory though, for all H2 pilots to be in constant radio/cellular communication with a veteran Funston pilot. How are you supposed to know you are, or about to, do something very stupid and life threatening without the input of someone who knows the site?
Thanks again for all who have spent time with me. See you when the wind blows west!
Gary