Thank you Bill, I don't know what the current term for "handicap" is, ( I know it's PC to change it every few years), but it all boils down to the same thing, ie a bloody nuisance!

The kid you mention shows what can be done when you try, and no doubt this sport will do a lot for his future happiness, and I'm sure he'll be able to master the takeoff and landings someday.
He has much much more to overcome than I have, and I take my hat off to him.

I have been a engineering tradesman, and a motorcyclist in the past, and this has helped me with the engine and construction side of things, but the flying is another thing, it takes some skill which the young people seem to have a lot more of.

I built a special lightweight fold up swivel recliner from an aluminium beach chair and a swivel office chair base, and it works a treat! now I can fly, when previously I couldn't even look up to see the plane in the air, so think again you guys - there are ways round all these obstacles, and don't let anyone swamp you with rules, - commonsense and a little bit of forethought is all that's needed. ( but if you are in a club, then I guess the rules rule.)

Please don't think that I'm being clever, - I'm just trying to say that anyone could do these things if they try, and learning by yourself really isn't the big deal some would have you believe.

Learning to fly really well is another thing of course!