7.3 Launching Procedures

7.3.1 Number of Launches Each sailplane is permitted a maximum of three launches per day.

a. If a sailplane or pilot is not ready to be launched due to a fault by the Organisers, the launch in that group shall not be started.

b. If a pilot postpones his first launch on his own initiative, or he is not ready when his turn comes up, he shall lose that launch.

c. A competitor requiring a second or third launch shall be launched after the completion of the group launch in progress at the time the competitor is ready for such a launch.

d. A failed take-off or a failure of the towplane resulting in jettisoning or premature release of a sailplane shall count as an official launch if the pilot elects to stay airborne. It shall not count as an official launch if the pilot lands immediately, even if outside the contest site boundaries, and reports to the launch point without delay.

7.3.2 Motor Gliders Motor gliders may self launch or launch by aero tow. The Organisers shall describe the launch procedures in the Local Procedures.

a. If they self launch their MoP must be shut down in the designated release area below the maximum release altitude. Refer to 5.4d.

b. If they require a second launch for a start, they must land prior to taking the new launch, otherwise they will be scored to the position at which they started their MoP.

7.3.3 Release Areas Towing patterns, release areas, and release height or altitude shall be given at Briefing.

a. The release areas shall be separated by at least 5 Km and a release area shall only be used by one group at a time. A release area may be used by a subsequent group once the start gate for the initial group in that same area has opened.

b. Pilots shall not release until after the tow pilot has rocked the wings of the towplane. Pull-ups before releasing are prohibited.

The Organisers may establish areas around the contest site within which continuous circling is prohibited or is permitted in one direction only. These areas must be stated in the Local Procedures.

c. The Organisers shall ensure that the release areas and the release altitudes for launching are selected to enable competitors to land safely for a relaunch prior to the start, after allowing adequate time and altitude to search for lift after release, within the confines of the designated contest site boundaries.