On Sunday 8 Februari 2009 I went to Zoutelande in the Netherlands for some wintersoaring. Conditions in the morning were quite excellent, but temperatures were freezing. While some early birds were already flying, most of us were still doubting if it would be worthwhile making the trip to the coast. Around noon, as the wind blowed harder and forced the wings to land, some delta pilots showed up and were dancing on invisible winds together with the glorious seagulls.
Together with Patrick and Bart we arrived at 13:00 in Zoutelande, some good flying already in the morning (isn't it Hans?) and it looks like the weathergods aren't happy to see us. Half an hour later we greet Jean-Yves, Steph and Jean and a whole bunch of colleague Pickupclub-members Seppe, Steven, Carl, Ronny, Frank, Bart and new member Danny... I bet I have forgotten to mention some other members, sorry for that and thank you for being there, this was a great gathering! Winds were blowing hard, more than 40km/h and no possibility for taking-off. Grey clouds approaching the coast, they soon delivered some strong wind and melting snow, most of us flee in the direction of the beachrestaurant "De Zeeuwse Riviera". Thank you for giving us the chance to take a pauze in the warmth, time to chat with one another, drink a "Belgian" beer and ask the wind to take away the bad weather from the seaside. Prayers were answered around 16:00, some impatient ones were already taking-off from the beach. Others were taking their bags to the official start on top of the dune. Clouds break and behind these fluffy curtains blue sky still exists, sun finally showed up. One by one taking-off, more and more sunbathing wings swoop above Zoutelande-beach. Around 20 wings were airborne. Windforce is decreasing and goes under 30km/h, Bart is giving a helping hand at most starts on the dune, thanks for your help Bart. Most impressive and divergent colored airballet, earth turned, sun disappeared behind the horizon, full moon showing up behind the dunes, this was a day full of wonders. Enjoy the pictures.
10-02-2009, 00:00 geschreven door Primaxx 
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