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## Flying in the Wave 

Once the wave has been contacted, the best techniques for utilizing the lift depend on the extent of the lift (especially in the direction along the ridge or mountain range producing the wave) and the strength of the wind. The lift may initially be weak. In such circumstances, be patient and stay with the initial slow climb. Patience is usually rewarded with better lift as the climb continues. At other times, the variometer may be pegged at 1,000 fpm directly after release from tow. 

If the wind is strong enough (40 knots or more), find the strongest portion of the wave and point into the wind, and 

adjust speed so that the glider remains in the strong lift. The best lift is found along the upwind side of the rotor cloud or just upwind of any lenticulars. In the best-case scenario, the required speed is close to the glider’s minimum sink speed. In quite strong winds, it may be necessary to fly faster than minimum sink to maintain position in the best lift. Under those conditions, flying slower allows the glider to drift downwind (fly backward over the ground) and into the down side of the wave. This can be a costly mistake since it is difficult to penetrate back into the strong headwind. When the lift is strong, it is easy to drift downwind while climbing into stronger winds aloft, so it pays to be attentive to the position relative to 

