The weather man had initially predicted a 7pm finish, but later brought this back to 6:30pm. Alex reviewed the data and it looked like a possibility that the day could even be over by 6pm. We discussed for some time and came to the decision that the team would be better off by starting earlier than planned. All the pilots were in the air so we had to try and let them know this view without revealing all to the world (every team has a number of radios monitoring the other teams so there are no secrets). With careful wording around Queensland time and cane toads, we got the message across (cannot tell you the actual words because others are watching)!
David was the first glider to start for the comp; Peter and Lisa were second to start in 15m; Brad and Bruce were first to start in Open class. Tom mixed it with the gaggles for a short time and then started with one of the earliest groups in 18m.
For the rest of the day we nervously watched the trackers to see if we had made the right call and given the right advice. Around 5:30pm Alex advised that temperatures were rising  – bugger!
Our guys were back before 6pm and we waited. The main groups were back by 6:30pm, but then a few of the later starters began to struggle. The day did finish earlier than thought but not as early as we had predicted.
As it turned out, themal strengths and heights were not any better for the later starters, and it was a little bluer down south so there were no real penalties for our early starts.
David easily won 18m, and Tom, Bruce and Brad scored 920-970 points, so good outcomes. Peter and Lisa were disadvantaged by not having any gaggles to help through the weaker sections of their tasks, and without the couple of low points would have placed well.
Those teams who got caught up in start tactics started very late and the day died, scoring in the low 700 points range. This has opened opportunities for Tom and David in 18m class.
Three days to go, with potential for some podium spots, so we have a cunning plan! Just can’t tell you what it is.  Terry