I know nothing whatsoever about gliding so can someone who does please explain to me the issues surrounding winch launches.
(Come to a gliding site and have a trial lesson - you'll be welcomed and will almost certainly enjoy the experience)
See "Section 1 Flying close to or over active glider or para drop sites" in
http://www.airproxboard.org.uk/docs/423/gab15web.pdf
Consider the power and energy involved in
- 0-50kt in 3s (cf "Top Gear" thinking a Lambourghini's 0-60mph in 6s is fast),
- 0-2000ft in 30s climbing at 35-45 degrees (so horizontal visibility is somewhat limited
Higher launches are possible in high winds e.g. my last flight was to 2300ft in a K13, and IIRC 2800ft has been achieved.
Consider the effect an ~6mm steel cable travelling at >60kt will have on an aircraft wing (think bandsaw