I firmly believe that mastering the art of thermalling is a pivotal skill for any pilot striving for success in cross-country flying and competitions. In some instances, a single better climb can define a World Championship. It’s a skill that deserves serious attention.
Reflecting back to 2004, when I first learned to fly as a middle school student, resources were limited, and a GPS or variometer was a luxury. Consequently, my initial thermal flights, cross-country missions, and even competitions were flown without the beep of the vario.
Over time, I developed my unique ways of navigating my climbs – from basic techniques like terrain comparison and observing birds and fellow pilots to more intricate methods like feeling pressure on my brakes and seat, and even triangulating...
