The White Horse of Westbury keeps watch

A situation that could have turned catastrophic for pilot Chris Homes during a flight at Westbury, a site known for soaring and XC in the UK.

The pilot is caught out by wind coming over the top whilst soaring downwind at ridge height, ultimately collapsing his wing.
Luckily the deflation caused his glider to spin away from the hill, enabling the pilot a brief moment to recover.

What is interesting is the pilot’s self-analysis, explained during playback, that his taking hold of the risers initially helped to maintain his body position, however he realised his next step should have been to let go of them immediately in order to allow the glider to gain speed and re-inflate, then give brake input to fly away from the hill.

No doubt a day that Chris will remember for a while, but a useful video for others to learn from.
Thanks Chris!