Just booked a gliding lesson for next weekend. Really excited about it, but just a bit nervous about the winch launch as its my first time.
Oh you lucky person - you've so many new wonderful exciting experiences ahead of you.
Typical comment before first winch launch is "oh my god". Typical comment after landing is silence (due to a big, slightly inane grin), followed by "that's not as bad as it looks".
Talk to your instructor, ask any questions to ensure you understand what's going to happen and why, and let them know your hope and fears. It may well be possible or you to have limited control of the glider for a short period when you are well away from the ground.
If you want another flight, then ask since it might be possible! Subsequent flights are usually less expensive, and if you join the club the flights will be
very significantly less expensive - most people are surprised just how inexpensive.
BTW, dress appropriately since airfields are usually exposed and therefore cold (or hot
