Still at Châtellerault, but on the ground.
Saturday 22 July
It was an odd day and this evening we are still at Châtellerault with the superb Silvair team who are hosting us. As last year, the first day of departure, although summery and south of the Loire, was disrupted by a rain front that began to wake us up at about 6am. This front, which was supposed to pass quickly, actually stayed for a good part of the day.
We launched a first departure early in the afternoon but the first machines quickly ran into a wall of rain. The lead machine made a precautionary landing in the countryside and we decided to return to Châtellerault.
The Tour, as the rules provide, is therefore postponed by one day and we resume the planned route tomorrow. That works out relatively well because the Pyrenees crossing planned for Monday looks compromised by another front lying over the high ground. We should be able to continue our route with an intermediate stage further north.
An unusual day, the mood is good. Safety first.
Sébastien Perrot
A double tent that keeps the rain off
With a smile
Rinsing...
Briefing early in the afternoon
Engine inspection
Aerobatic introductory flight on a CAP10 from the neighbouring aeroplane club
The weight-shift machines leave first but they will be back quite quickly
The friendly tipi tent
The indispensable annexe...
