We will admit to a teensy-weensy bit of concern when we first heard that last year's CFI, Serge, had (been?) moved on, but after a day or two under the latest regime we knew that our fears were unfounded. The new team, led by CFI Tristan and his trusty DCFI Remy, were authoritative, helpful and polite to all of the pilots and their families. The tuggies delivered a good service and the morning briefings were, once again, detailed and informative although we noted that last year's task suggestions appeared to have been dispensed with.

Regular midday game of "Spot the Cumulus"

"Hello-o-o-o Vaumeilh...!"
 

The popularity of le Pegasus continues

The weather was another cause for concern as we started the holiday. We had never seen so much green at Sisteron after this  May's heavy rains and we wondered just how much time would be spent in the restaurants rather than in the cockpit. Luckily for us, the weather improved a few days after our arrival, giving the hot and dry conditions that we would normally expect at this time of year. I do regret not having had the courage (or skill) to press on across the Maurienne into the Aosta valley, but that will just have to wait for next time.

Le Pegasus clubhouse continues to be a popular gathering place at lunchtime before flying and for a beer at the end of the day. It is a little irritating to find that le Janus continues to impose its rules on the club and its members by enforcing various petty restrictions, but the reality is that the restaurant and the club have to co-exist on the same site and a little political give and take is the best compromise. Yes, I know - even in France!

So there we are: 73 hours of thrilling soaring spread over 14 flying days, above the wildest and most spectacular scenery in Europe. Roll on 2009!

Thank you and goodnight!

A la prochaine...