One of the most critical pieces of equipment we use at SOSA is often unappreciated since it appears to be such a simple device. However the lowly tow rope is used in one of the most important phases of each flight – the launch – and we rely for our safety on the stability of the ropes and the tow and glider rings that are spliced on to each end. For this we owe much to Phil Watson who volunteers his time to maintain the ropes in such a great condition. Many of our members see Phil at the field with his self designed and self made splicing box, patiently and methodically completing the task and finishing the job with such mastery. Phil had some big shoes to fill having taken over the ropes maintenance task from Carl Raufeisen. Carl is remembered by many SOSA members as a perfectionist and he passed away several years ago.
Phil has been a member at SOSA since 1991, and was licensed in 1993, later qualifying as an instructor. I was initially trained by Phil and I recall in one of the first flights how I was impressed by his thermalling technique opposite another glider.
Phil learned to fly power planes in 1954 under a flying scholarship, funded by the military and through the cadets when he was 17 years old. He initially had aspirations to take up flying as a career but Phil also had an interest in photography using this in his stint with the US Marines when he was attached to a battalion as a photographer in 1961. For a 28 year period Phil was a full time police officer and spent 5 years in the forensic department employing his photography skills. For many years he was also the commanding officer for the Air Cadets
attached to the Dundas Squadron and later the Burlington Squadron specializing in range shooting and survival training. Phil is a long time resident of Waterdown, not far from SOSA.
When you get a chance watch Phil at the SOSA clubhouse or on the field, working his fingers delicately around the splicing box. Ask him to explain the technique and you will gain an excellent appreciation for this important art.
