GBRCAA Competition

Skelbrooke 3rd September 2006  

Report/Results

The day had a forecast of 15 to 20 mph winds but no rain. It is difficult to believe the meter when you are stood out on the field, particularly such an exposed one such as Skelbrooke.

 As it was, sixteen hardy soles decided to brave the elements, the main comment was that at least it was warm!

 After a late cancellation and a no show, Stephen Haywood found himself alone in Standard class, flying a new Flair Leo. Powered by a YS 110, Stephen was not particularly chuffed when told he was on first. However, Stephen performed well and produced a promotion score. It was at the start of the second round that Stephen decided to keep his model for another day and scratched from flying but leant his support by scribing and watching the action.

 A real tussle developed in Seniors, between David Drummond and Ryan Prime. David flew well in the first round, producing a promotion score, and Ryan just coming up short at 315.5. The second round only had one point between them and Andy was really keen for Ryan to try and catch up. The third round started, with Ryan being the only pilot to register a flight as the weather appeared to get worse with strengthening winds and dark clouds, at which point I called a halt. There were only 7 or 8 pilots looking to fly a third round and some of them were doubtful so the decision was made. The Senior result came out in favour of David but all credit must go to young Ryan for a sterling effort in very difficult conditions.

 Masters always seems to involve a particular group of fliers at Skelbrooke, the Mansfield duo of Stuart Mellor and Tom Bootyman versus the rest! The result turned out to be the same 1-2 as the Nats the previous week with Andy Prime taking the top slot and Stuart Mellor second place. Third was Ashley Hoyland who kept insisting all day that he would be fifth. Tom decided to keep his model for another day and just had the one flight.

Almost a Centralised entry in FAI with 9 entries, including Steve Burgess and Malcolm Harris from Scotland. Three electric models graced the FAI list, with two of them taking 1st and 2nd places. The Oxalys of Steve Burgess was really impressive in the wind and it was an unfortunate accident on landing after his second flight, which broke the left hand U/C leg. Steve admitted that it was his fault as he had taken his eyes of the model after it had touched down and a sudden gust took it up into the air again.

 Stephen Simm had an engine cut on his first flight, inspection revealing a loose needle valve assembly. To have scored 332 from 2/3rds of a schedule showed great promise. His second round score of 400.5 proved this. Indeed, all those who topped the 400 mark in the prevailing conditions showed great resolve and deserve credit. The assembled spectators also realised the skill in performing to that level and were appreciative of the chance to witness such flying. Not possible when comps are held on airfields.

 So, with an early finish, thanks were given to the judges, Pete Cappleman, Richard and Simon Howarth and Pete Scoles who came for a look but who did the second round for me. Hope to see you competing next year Pete! Adrian Harrison deserves a mention as he stepped in and did some of the totting up of the scores, a welcome relief for the CD.

It looks as though we will have three more of the same next year so see you all then.

 Steve Dunning

CD