Chimbu, yes Glider turn backs on cable release or break is 300 ft so is the base turn in a normal circuit. Also cct is flown very close in and the glide ration of the average training glider is twice that of a conventional powered aircraft.
Absolutist maybe, I was referring to powered aircraft and people turning into instant test pilots initiating low level turn backs.
The fact that you "got away with it" is testament to the existence of an element of lucky bravado, to celebrate that is in my view irresponsible.