Fountain Lake and its surrounding areas could be clearly seen from a glider Thursday launched from Albert Lea Municipal Airport. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

Albert Lea Municipal Airport is in the middle of hosting the Glider Region 7 International Contest, a week-long event that started at the airport on Sunday. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

Weather conditions were ideal for the Glider Region 7 International Contest Thursday in Albert Lea. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

A glider in the Glider Region 7 International Contest flies high Thursday over Albert Lea. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

A towing plane returns back to the ground to help launch another glider Thursday during the Glider Region 7 International Contest at Albert Lea Municipal Airport. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune

Clouds overshadow Freeborn County Thursday during the Glider Region 7 International Contest. - Colleen Harrison/Albert Lea Tribune