Bob Cook
Sep 26, 2008, 12:08 PM
When Paul Naton at Radio Carbon Art premiered his new DVD titled "High Performance Thermal Soaring", I knew I had to watch it. As some of you know, I don't belong to a local soaring club. I fly alone, and I've never had any formal instruction on soaring techniques.
This latest installment from Paul, is by far his best yet. It's divided into 4 basic subject areas. They are, a general discussion of 8 topics, Extras, Previews, and Interviews. The first area deals with 8 topics. Each one is a through explanation of that subject. For example, the first one deals with weather. The graphics and time laps photography are stunning. It's a whole weather 101 course in itself.
The other topics include, CG, Cube of the Air, Ballast, Trim Speeds, Angle of Bank, Stick and Rudder, and Go Farther Fast. I dare say, that you'll need to watch them several times, in order to get all the information contained in them.
A very interesting and fun item, is that with each of the 8 segments, you get "Home Work" assignments to do. It's a great idea to help you learn and use the information there in.
"Previews" is a section that gives you a look at the other DVD's in the collection. These expand on the various subject matter covered in the first 8 topics here. I have several of these and they are all good. They provide detailed information on several of the topics mentioned above.
In the "Extra" section, Paul goes over setting up his glider in all of the various flight modes and mixes. He explains the reasons and philosophies behind them. He also explains when and why they are most effectively used. This too, needs to be watched several times in order to get all the information.
The final segment is an extensive interview with world champion David Hobby. This two time champion explains how he sets up his plane for competition. He also discusses flying techniques in general. His weather discussion is very good indeed. He talks about being aware of your surroundings, wind, trees, time of day, and surface conditions.
He them launches his plane and starts thermal hunting. The whole time he is flying, he is telling you what he is doing and why. His Aussie accent makes it even more interesting to listen to. This is coaching by the best while flying.
If you have questions, this DVD has answers, I do recommend it. It's best viewed while sipping a glass of Pinot Gris and snacking on some Cheddar cheese.
Bob in Seattle
Here are 2 links. The first is to the pod cast interview, second entry down. Have a listen.
http://glidefast.typepad.com
The second is the You Tube Preview trailer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FUZaynkfds
This latest installment from Paul, is by far his best yet. It's divided into 4 basic subject areas. They are, a general discussion of 8 topics, Extras, Previews, and Interviews. The first area deals with 8 topics. Each one is a through explanation of that subject. For example, the first one deals with weather. The graphics and time laps photography are stunning. It's a whole weather 101 course in itself.
The other topics include, CG, Cube of the Air, Ballast, Trim Speeds, Angle of Bank, Stick and Rudder, and Go Farther Fast. I dare say, that you'll need to watch them several times, in order to get all the information contained in them.
A very interesting and fun item, is that with each of the 8 segments, you get "Home Work" assignments to do. It's a great idea to help you learn and use the information there in.
"Previews" is a section that gives you a look at the other DVD's in the collection. These expand on the various subject matter covered in the first 8 topics here. I have several of these and they are all good. They provide detailed information on several of the topics mentioned above.
In the "Extra" section, Paul goes over setting up his glider in all of the various flight modes and mixes. He explains the reasons and philosophies behind them. He also explains when and why they are most effectively used. This too, needs to be watched several times in order to get all the information.
The final segment is an extensive interview with world champion David Hobby. This two time champion explains how he sets up his plane for competition. He also discusses flying techniques in general. His weather discussion is very good indeed. He talks about being aware of your surroundings, wind, trees, time of day, and surface conditions.
He them launches his plane and starts thermal hunting. The whole time he is flying, he is telling you what he is doing and why. His Aussie accent makes it even more interesting to listen to. This is coaching by the best while flying.
If you have questions, this DVD has answers, I do recommend it. It's best viewed while sipping a glass of Pinot Gris and snacking on some Cheddar cheese.
Bob in Seattle
Here are 2 links. The first is to the pod cast interview, second entry down. Have a listen.
http://glidefast.typepad.com
The second is the You Tube Preview trailer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FUZaynkfds