In case you try again without an instructor...

Backyard = bad idea. Find someplace with a lot more empty space, like a baseball field or a series of soccer fields.

Try ROG instead of hand launching. That way your hands are on the controls instead of juggling.

Try a dead calm day, usually just before dark or just after dawn. It doesn't take much wind to move a park flyer.



I would suggest you get some help. If you get someone to test fly and trim your plane, then it will be much easier for you.

It doesn't have to be a full-blow instructor, since you're not flying a glow trainer (which is a totally different kettle of fish), but someone with enough experience to get you up and flying. I think you'll find that if you can get a few minutes in the air with a park flyer you can gradually get the hang of it.

Assuming there are not trees around to eat it.