Rolda (Los Tanques-2)

Feb 14th, 2015

As I try to piece together this day, memories grow faded. Inputs from others on the trip will be crucial.

I remember that the day began as a more typical weather day for Roldanillo.  There were clouds in the morning; some high and others lower near the foothills and licking launch.

The drive to Los Tanques did not require short-wheelbase 4x4 vehicles, as Anserma did. John, our trusty van driver, was able to take us all the way to the foot of the launch site in his own vehicle. From there, we either schlepped our gliders up the 100+ steps to the wide-open field above or we paid 3.0000 COP (about $1.25) for one of the local, enterprising agriculture workers to carry it up. They carried two at a time and made use of a mule to carry two or three more. 

The launch here is a waiting game for that variable window of opportunity. Obviously, we had to wait for the clouds to part. Then we needed enough assurance that there was sufficient lift, either from a giving wind tech or some chulos (black vultures). It's often flyable by 9:30. But you cannot delay too long past that. By early afternoon, the Pacific Wind comes into play and creates a backwind on launch.

With much more settled air, we all launched on this day. The plan was to go south since there was a prevailing wind from the north in the valley. This was apparent due to some of the sugar cane fires. There was some talk of trying to make it to Riofrio,  40 km to the south.

Jack had a piano.

Don flew to…

Mike went to the soccer field. 

JK dirtied at the base of the open gold mine at Bolivar. 

Robbin, Julie S., Paul, Kent & Kari went some distance south.

Sorry, I just can't remember everyone's flights. Please fill in the blanks in the comments and I will incorporate.