Glider Launch Rope Break

The tow rope inadvertently released from the Pawnee tow plane right at 200 feet AGL.

The Oudie flight computer scren flashed to black screen momentarily at the time of the break - 00:36 in the video.

I thought my end of the tow rope had released, same "bang" sound as a normal release (if there is strong tension on the rope). I normally try for a "soft" release, getting above then very slightly diving toward the towplane to remove tension from the rope as I pull the release and turn right.

The dangling rope released from the glider's Schweizer hook via it's own drag in the air, landing in the grass below the turnback.

No panic: Aviate, Navigate, but didn't get around to Communicate on this short adventure.

Zephyhills Florida - runway 1/19
Club -Tampa Bay Soaring Society
1980 Schweizer 1-35C, old number 97 (of 101)