Be careful on that flrst glider. sounds real nice..... Tell us about your site.. what's the terrain and more imporatnly what's on it.. rocks/stones.. or nice soft grass?

I know your itchin to maiden but it being your first sailplane and a rather large one at that... you may want to think about getting something cheap that's rc and tossing it off the hill first either storebought or homemade. For example.. I have lots of fun with one of the ten dollar foam gliders from Target that I cut ailerons and elevator into.....throw in some cheap micro servos, balance and your good to go. Obviosuly this will be off and flying in gophers belch but you'll get the idea of turning away from the hill and the ever present rotor conditions that are often at the top in the landing area. You'll be able to see how far out from the hill you can fly and still be in the liftband, etc..

Mike