Northeast Regional Championship: RCS Slope Flying at Hohe Buche

Organization: MG Hinwil, with support from MG Wald

Is flying really just about landing... or is there more to it than that?

What great weather, and what a great atmosphere among the participants! Twenty-eight pilots registered, and all 28 were ready at 8:30 a.m. to compete for the 2008 Regional Championship title.

This extremely encouraging result shows that we’re on the right track with our simplified slope program in the NOS region—developed more than 12 years ago—and that we’re truly making the championship a joy for the participants.

The program is inviting for participants of all ages and features exciting and varied segments. After all, there are five planes in the air at the same time. Any contact must be avoided—absolutely no crashes. “Fly more to the right,” comments the helper, “there’s a hose over there.”

The landing, one of the key moments of the competition, always generates a lot of excitement. The demands are high, depending on the prevailing wind conditions. Even the best participants are pushed to their limits when trying to land in the correct field, as close as possible to the finish line.

Another off-field landing—and the next outcry… a landing in a tree…? The launch site offered a unique sight with its many different models. Gliders at their finest—ranging from those equipped with every possible gadget to models held together entirely with duct tape. Some had electric motors and their propellers removed. But more important than the model’s appearance is taking part, and everyone has a chance to win.

Impeccable organization by the folks from MG Hinwil and Wald. The challenging part is,

to ensure that launch preparations went smoothly. This was no easy task, as some of the individual models required special handling during launch preparation. The launch team strictly followed all of the pilots’ requests regarding the power-up procedure and other specific requirements.

The strong, building tailwind at the launch site caused some delays in the proceedings. It was absolutely impossible and irresponsible to launch any more models. The wait was worth it, as additional flights were subsequently able to take place.

Amid loud applause, the winners received the trophy and medals

, and the members of MG Schaffhausen received the challenge cup.

Congratulations!

• 1. Patrick Häusler, MG Buttikon**
• 2. Beat Brotbeck, MG Schaffhausen**
• 3. Hans Kiener, MG Hinwil**

On behalf of the Northeast Switzerland Model Flying Region, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, officials, the organizing committee, and the pilots at the launch site. For the results, see www.mg-hinwil.ch and www.modellflug-nos.ch.

Werni Erismann