it was over two hours ago and I still have a massive grin on my face
the 'big day' had been postponed, mainly due to marginal weather, for the last three weeks. today wasn't looking much better with a bit of nerves on my part and a wind gusting up to 16kts (approx 8 kts x wind).
I'd reasoned that it simply wasn't going to happen today. so I just relaxed and got on with flying. so I was surprised when my instructor took control after landing for the 4th time.
instructor: "fancy having a go on your own?"
me: "oh, go on then...!"
I knew that if I thought about it too much I'd tie my brain up in knots. so I just got on with it.
shock #1: the climb performance without a second bum is pretty impressive. I'd been warned to expect this, but I'd almost hit 400 ft before even clearing the end of the runway after takeoff.
shock #2: a cessna 152 joined the pattern on the downwind leg just as I'm reaching circuit height on crosswind - very close. I'd heard him on the radio stating his joining intentions, but it was still a surprise. so I reported him in sight, extended the x-wind leg slightly, and flew a slower downwind leg to make a gap. I think the lookout is totally ingrained in me after this.
it was only prior to turning base that I became truly aware I was on my todd - no one obscuring my view out the starboard window
the landing wasn't the best I've ever done. I balooned it a bit during the flare when a gust picked up. should have used 1 stage flaps.
but here I am posting on a forum about it, so it's all good
