At Harden, we have one of the longer winch strips in Australia, at 2,200 metres. One pilot reported a 3,500 foot launch in a longwing Kookaburra on her first solo. It is fairly rare for experienced pilots not to 'get away' on their first launch on an average soaring day. Seconds Winch wire becomes taut. Seconds Glider pilot allows glider to gently leave ground.
Pilot starts easing glider's nose back.
Height is about 50 feet above ground. Pilot has established the glider in full climb, at roughly 400 feet above ground. The winch driver reduces power, and the pilot starts easing the glider's nose down in response. The glider is now flying straight and level. The winch wire floats gently off the tow hook, and the pilot and glider are now in free flight.