Judging XC Speed

One of the key points to getting speed & points at a competition is judging your average speed for the day, versus the optimum part of the day for the task at hand. Why is this important & how do I do it?

Start Time

I'm not sure what you notice in the States, but typically in Australia, the last starters usually do the best. What else do I notice that people say?

"I think the optimum start time is 'x', but what if I get stuck or the day dies early? So I'll start 15-30 min earlier to be sure"

This is music to my ears. Why? I know that they're one, not confident in their abilities, two, they'll be flying in the weaker weather, & three, I'll have open skies!

Start with Preflight Preparation

So how do I judge my speed? Experience is for sure one key part, but it all starts with the preflight preparation. I use SkySights prediction feature, to begin with, then add 5-10% for final glide. Why? Because SkySight task speed feature calculates you finishing at top of convection. I then add 5-10% for my ability versus how I'm feeling about the day, streeting, confidence level, local knowledge, rain last night, smoke?

Now the fun bit, listen & observe everything. Talk to your fellow competitors, get a feel for what they are thinking, you might have missed something. Tell them honestly what you're thoughts are too - they won't remember & the sky is dynamic, plus its more fun when you beat them honestly & by trying to help them too!

Visualize

Stand out on the grid alone, really visualize what is happening. Are noises travelling easily or not, this means it's an unstable or stable day respectively, a clue to starting earlier or later. Try & see if the conditions are travelling to forecast or otherwise, of course always keep your start time plan updating. Use all possible means available, satellite pictures are a great help.

Finally, that first climb off tow, it tells you a lot about the day. Bubbling, streaming, strong low, high or all the way to the top? Are they strong, weak, tight? How's your confidence level now? How is your mind & body feeling? These all come into play, of course, all while the other competitors are getting ready to start. Luckily for you though, they'll get nervous, start earlier than required, then it's your turn & time to attack!

Trust yourself that you won't get stuck, start from behind with confidence, chase down your mates & have fun!

 Adam Woolley was born into the gliding world, being the 3rd generation in his family. Going solo at 15, his thirst for efficiency in soaring flight & quest for a world championship title to his name has never wavered. One big passion is sharing his experiences & joy with other glider pilots all around the world. Adam is an airline pilot in Japan on the B767 & spends his off time chasing summer around the globe. He has now won 7 national Championships & represented Australia at 5 WGC's & 1 EGC.