Summer Gathering of the '24 Rubber-Band/CO2-Powered Models

Our request to St. Peter for good weather has been granted: sunny and calm! Ideal conditions for this year’s summer gathering. Three women, 19 men, and four juniors made their way to “Gheid” in Olten on this hot July 20! An overwhelming turnout.

There was one new feature at this meet: Since “gummimotor.ch” has joined the “Flying Aces Club” as “The Swiss Rubber Twisters” (44th Squadron), a competition was held for the first time according to their rules. Eligible models were the Phantom Flash and the Phantom Flash II Chameleon.

After the briefing by organizers Peter Ziegler and Andreas Koch, the morning was entirely devoted to this FAC contest, with models launched from a launch table and from cardboard launch pads on the ground. Fourteen participants registered for the contest. Several rounds were held. The winner was the model with the longest total flight time. Flight times of 20 seconds or more were counted. What a laugh that was! And—for everyone, taking part was more important than the ranking.

Other models were flown as well, including some with CO2 propulsion. Flying, retrieving, and working up a sweat! Shade—that was the most sought-after thing. In its shelter, participants could discuss, make repairs, test things out, and simply enjoy the camaraderie among like-minded people. The gathering was also honored by the presence of the president of the Olten Gliding Club—Christian Heimlich—who, together with the Olten Gliding Club’s board, made this event possible in the first place. Many thanks to the Olten Gliding Club for hosting us for several years now!

See you at the fall gathering on October 12, 2024, at the same location.

Peter Ziegler

**The result of high temperatures:
a warped propeller after being placed on the
aluminum table.**