NGS Competing in the Sailplane Grand Prix BY CHARLES PETERSEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA SZEMPLINSKA RETIRED NAVY CMDR. RICHARD OWEN is at his assigned position on the launch grid. He has been, with the others, weighed to ensure he is not too heavy, which would unfairly advantage him. After he has programmed the task, a list of turnpoints, into his computer, and checked it several times, he focuses on relaxing until the start-his thorough preparation gives him the confidence to do so. www.aopa.org/pilot AOPA PILOT | 69http://www.aopa.org/pilot