Committed to tethered flight for decades

Adi Eggenberger, President of the Swiss Model Aviation Association; Regional President Romeo Spaar; Christine Saccavino, President of the Basel Model Building Club (MBZB), and Heiner Borer, representing Technical Commission F2, were in attendance when Charlotta and Walter Christen, on the one hand, and Claude Haldimann, on the other, were honored for their contributions to tethered flight at the Northwest Presidents’ Conference on October 30, 2019. The three have made a significant contribution to maintaining and promoting tethered flight as an attractive model aviation category over the years.

What Charlotta and Walter Christen have accomplished for tethered flight over the decades is truly impressive. Walter was a passionate tethered flyer in various categories for many years. But even after his active flying days were over, he and his wife Charlotta remained loyal to the tethered flight community. No competition at Schwalbennest or Hard 2000 was complete without the Christens. As a perfectly functioning team, they were always responsible for the electrical installations—extremely reliable and professional. For decades, the two were also valued acro-point judges both at home and abroad. With their cheerful and approachable manner, Charlotta and Walter were always very welcome friends.

Like the Christens, Claude Haldimann is also a stalwart of the tethered flight scene and is always there when needed. For countless years, he has run the competition office at every event organized by the Basel Model Building Club (MBZB). He always keeps everything under perfect control and never loses his cool, even during hectic moments. For decades, Claude has also served the MBZB as treasurer and a loyal member. It’s always a pleasure when Claude arrives at the competition venue—usually on his motorcycle. Everyone greatly appreciates his easygoing, positive nature.

*Ursula Borer
and Roland Schlumpf*