There was definitely something else at work. This happened during the national gliding competition, where lots of gliders typically share the same airspace and thermals (not sure if this happened with other planes in the area). We are talking close formation flying.
As well, gliding in Canada requires two check flights at the beginning of each season, which includes spin training and insip recovery. Mandated by the national insurance provider. Now most pilots don’t practice spins by themselves during the season but that is another discussion. Needless to say though, I wouldn’t say training was the issue as spins are taught to a much higher level in gliding than in power flying.