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 Now, this is one thing that has been on my mind for a very long time. After the SSB for NDA entry got screwed and got worse at the IMA and OTA entry as well, the I-want-to-fly got lost in other pursuits. The time was right now… I was ready. On the net, I found Temple pilots – and liked them in the first go. Exchanged few mails and took the beginners course. Harshu, another old friend from last century now with a newspaper and I, landed at Japalouppe off Somatane phata on the mumbi-pune highway. That's the accommodation for the gliding course. Its essentially a stud farm with 100's of horses and around 30 dogs!
The gliding course had theory and practical – hands on’ training. First day, we learnt ground handing on the shore of Pavna lake. Reallypicturesque and ideal flying spot. Did some runs and all, trying to hop like baby birds. Second day, went to a site called Shelar – named after the farmer who owns the farm beneath the take-off spot. Did some more runs and hops. And Avi, the chief flying instructor, thought I was ready to do my first flight. The flat surface in middle of the hillock, where you get lift from the oncoming wind was my take-off point.
I Climbed the hill in less than 7min, such was the excitement. Did all the checks and waited till the wind speed reduced to learners level!! And then, with the setting sun, I took off… Every moment in the flight was the way I'd imagined it all my life. Right from running, gently leaving the ground, being in the air, watching the horizon, looking at the terrain below, approaching land and touching down. Know what I mean? All perfect.
On the third day, did some more hops and climbed the hill eagerly... twice, tore my shoe on the rocks and did two flights. Was hooked.
I just realised that for the last 6 years I haven't learnt anything new. So it was time. Am telling you people, you gotta fly. Its so quiet up there. The experience is kickass... And humbling.
-Ninad Sonawane |
