I'm not sure what I expected when I attended your thermal clinic in La Salina Mexico since I'm primarily a motor pilot with aspirations toward free flight.  I do know that I came away with a tremendous respect for the state of organization and training related to free flying in general and the people/process of this event in particular.  My initial interest in free-flight training was to improve my powered flying skills, confidence and safety (which is still true) but now I want more - much more!

Each day began with a good breakfast followed by a lecture on various flying topics with related questions and answers -- very informative and motivating.  After a day of spectacular flying, the pilots and instructors re-convened in the early evening for beverages, debriefing, personal "best experiences", instructor comments and self-defined objectives for the next day.  Followed by the excitement of the day, (and a few margaritas), the conversations were spirited and again informative but what struck me most was what a fantastic overall experience this was.  Great people, great sport, great fun and, you couldn't help but come away a better, safer pilot.

My complements to everyone from Torrey Pines Gliderport for a job well done.

Michael Purdy