66 MODEL AVIATION
Pylon Racing
for Everyone
by Don Stegall
CLUB 40 PYLON Racing is sweeping the
nation. Even in places that call it something
else, many modelers have discovered the
formula that allows almost anyone with
intermediate or better skills to enjoy the sport
of racing RC models.
It’s called “Spec” racing. It works in fullscale
automobile and RC car racing. For
almost any racing competition to be fun to
watch or participate in, there has to be a level
of parity.
NASCAR recently made the switch to the
Car of Tomorrow. There were many reasons,
and cost was one of them. Parity of
competition was high on the list. Fans of road
racing are familiar with the Daytona
prototypes.
Club 40 is spec Pylon Racing. It uses
essentially identical airframes with sport
engines that produce nearly the same amount
of power. This leads to close racing, and
winning is more about pilot skill than
technology and equipment.
Properly maintaining equipment is still
important, but flying tight turns and staying on
the course are more likely to put you in the
winner’s circle than a “killer” engine.
And it is fun for the spectators because of
the suspense. With the models so evenly
matched, they are often in close proximity.
This leads to near misses and a lot of passing.
But the passing rarely consists of blowing
someone’s doors off. It usually takes time,
patience, and turning at exactly the right time
to pull it off. This is exciting and often leads to
the spectators cheering. It’s cool to have
people clapping after a tight race.
Several years ago, some pilots discovered
that the Sky Raider Mach II by The World
Models, distributed in the US by AirBorne
Models, made a fun design to race. It is neutral
enough to groove well on a Pylon course with
the control throws toned down.
With the control surfaces on high rates, the
Sky Raider is a fun everyday airplane that can
do basic aerobatics. It is a tail-dragger with a
simple tail wheel, and it taxis in and out of the
pits similar to how the sport airplanes fly at the
clubs on a regular basis.
The Sky Raider’s wing is symmetrical, and
at 550 square inches with a 53.5-inch
wingspan, it is slightly bigger than a Quickie
500 design. The fuselage is also a bit bigger
than a Quickie’s, and standard-size servos fit.
In 2006, The World Models introduced the
sleeker LA Racer 40. At first glance, it looks
as though it would be faster than the Sky
Raider Mach II. It has a cowl on the engine
and a rounded deck on top. The canopy is clear
and looks streamlined.
On closer inspection, the LA Racer’s wing
has the same airfoil, wingspan, and chord as
the Sky Raider. The stabilizer is the same size.
The measurements on the fuselage from the
engine to the wing and to the stabilizer are the
same.
However, the fin and rudder are slightly
smaller on the LA Racer 40. Another
difference is that it has dual aileron servos
mounted in the wing. They are a small amount
of added drag that practically equalizes it and
the Sky Raider. A great deal of racing with
both airplanes in the past couple years has
shown that they are effectively identical in
both speed and performance.
The airframes’ cost and color selection was
another factor. ARFs are a wonderful timesaver
for the modern modeler, but most
manufacturers make them in one color
scheme. The World Models produces several
of its models in multiple color schemes.
When Club 40 was started, the Sky Raider
Mach II was available in four schemes. It was
also an amazing bargain, at $69.99 for the
complete ARF with all hardware. The price
has since increased to $89.99 because of the
global economy and improvements that have
been made to the airframe.
AirBorne Models was asked to produce the
Sky Raider in solid colors with CA hinges.
The company responded with all-white,
-yellow, -orange, and -red. The solid colors
were an immediate hit with the racers.
Going a step further, the Sky Raider Mach
II is now available as an ARC (Almost Readyto-
Cover) for people who want a different base
color or want to use MonoKote, UltraCote, or
some other covering.
The LA Racer 40 was introduced in four
color schemes for $99.99. It has since been
increased to $109.99 and is now also offered
in solid white and solid yellow. That’s many
color schemes to choose from before adding
trim to personalize a model’s look.
Because of AMA course specifications, it
was determined that staying with .40 or
smaller engines was important. Even though
the .46 is a popular size with sport fliers, the
AMA RC Pylon Racing courses possess
bigger setbacks for engines exceeding a
displacement of .40. AMA Sport Quickie
(event 424) requires a sport .40 engine.
Even though the Club 40 rules have an
engine specification, they also have an engine
list; the only power plant currently on the list
is the Thunder Tiger Pro .40. It was found to
be the perfect match for Club 40 airframes.
STATE
SPORT
o f t h e
A group photo from the May 2007 Tri-City Race in Seguin, Texas.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:01 PM Page 66
October 2009 67
The most models that should fly in one race is four. The pilot starts the airplane, while
the caller holds until the clock counts down the release time.
The Pro 40 has proved itself to be reliable and
user-friendly in Sport Quickie.
The speed of a Club 40 airplane running a
Thunder Tiger Pro .40 is 90-95 mph. The
beauty of using this engine is that the pilot can
advance to Sport Quickie and use the same
power plants to go 120 mph or faster. Since
Club 40 is more relaxed than Quickie racing,
many groups allow a choice of comparable
sport .40 engines.
Although the Club 40 three-pole course is
the choice for AMA-class racing, many clubs
cannot fit it on their sites. The goal of Club 40
was more racing for more people in more
places.
The two-pole course works better for the
majority of clubs. With the poles and the
racing out in front of the pilots, course
workers, and spectators, it has a more familiar
feel as well. The pylons are set well back from
the runway.
The AMA rule book specifies a distance of
330 feet from the Pylon course centerline to
the pilots. This configuration was difficult to
set up on many fields and difficult to fly with
models traveling slower than 100 mph. The
course size of 660 feet also yielded 10-lap heat
times that were too high.
Testing resulted in a course with the poles
roughly 400 feet apart and 200-250 feet from
the pilots. If a course size of 396 feet is used,
10 laps equals 1.5 miles, and 10-lap heat times
have a time of roughly a minute-and-a-half if
the pilot flies a good course.
To use the smaller course, waivers were
required to get AMA sanctions for the races.
Through the hard work of Chuck Waller, a
safety officer in Texas, and AMA officials, a
course was approved for Club 40 that is
shorter and has smaller setbacks. See
Document 540-B, “Set-Back Distances for
Sport Pylon Racing,” on the AMA Web site.
Most clubs can host this course. It is even
possible to have the two-pole course set up
and intermingle racing activities with sportflying.
But make sure that the sport fliers are
aware of the pylons and don’t fly hot laps
while sport-flying is taking place.
Texas has been one of the hotbeds of Club
40 racing. Ken Erickson started with six or
seven pilots. Chuck Waller got involved and
took it to a new level. He traveled across the
state promoting Club 40 and organized quite a
few races. His Texas Championship Club 40
race at the Austin Radio Control Association
field on November 1, 2008, was a big success.
H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler started flying RC
in 2007. As president and general manager of
Lowe’s Motor Speedway near Charlotte,
North Carolina, at the time, he was able to
help the Flying Aces Pilots Association, of
the Charlotte area, when it temporarily lost its
flying site.
I learned about the flying site at Lowe’s
and found that I could set up a two-pole
course for Club 40 racing. After
demonstrating the event, I got three of the
club officers interested in racing; Evan
Doughty, Terry Hickey, and Larry Moore got
models for the class.
We held three races at Lowe’s in
2008 and have four planned for 2009. See
the Web site for RC flying at Lowe’s
Motor Speedway for more info.
Since Club 40 is not currently an AMA
event, the rules are up to individual groups.
Those that the Texas contingent developed,
with input from people in other areas, can be
found on the RCPRO Web site. They are
accessible via the “Contents” tab and the
“Club 40 Rules” link.
A complete list of allowed modifications
specifies limits for the little things that
modelers do to enhance their aircraft. The
rules page also lists the engines that are
allowed for RCPRO Club 40 racing.
Ken Erickson is the RCPRO Club 40
Racing Committee chairman. He is a great
resource for clubs that are interested in getting
started in this activity. If your group is racing
Club 40 or Sky Raiders, please get in touch
with Ken (his e-mail address is in the
“Sources” list at the end of this article) so he
can put you on the contact list.
Club 40 has attained enough popularity
that a forum was created for it on
RCUniverse. Choose “Airplanes” from the
“Forums” menu, and then click on “Pylon
Universe—RC Pylon Racing.”
Most of the traffic there has been people in
groups using the RCPRO Club 40 rules, but
the section is open to all modelers involved in
Club 40 racing and all are invited to use the
forum. I hear about many groups across the
country that do not use the forums. Please join
us and spread the word about your racing
activities.
Club 40 racing is easy in which to
participate. A modeler can buy the ARF and
Have the thrill of a lifetime
with the average RC model
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:33 PM Page 67
68 MODEL AVIATION
The caller can push an aircraft at the launch. It’s an intense moment at which the pilot
needs to stay focused on heading the model straight for the first pylon.
As on USRA and Reno-style course layouts, Club Racing has pilots outside the course
rounding just two pylons. Keeping it fun is the goal.
When pilots are well matched, races are
exciting to watch but even better in
which to participate.
The spectators sit a good 250 feet away
from the racecourse. Safety is paramount,
so don’t hesitate if your club wants to
position the audience farther away.
Aircraft identification and recognition are
crucial, and they are an opportunity to have
fun with graphics. AirBorne Models’ Sky
Raider is ideal for sport racing.
Static photos and illustration by the author Flight photos by Lori Ann Kirby
engine on a Wednesday and race on Saturday.
Anyone who can assemble an ARF can handle
the Club 40 models; no special equipment is
needed. Any standard radio will do, but a
modern type with dual rates and exponential
makes it easier to tune an airplane for racing.
If there is Club 40 or Sky Raider Mach II
racing in your area, jump in. If not, get yourself
a Club 40 model and practice. When others see
how much fun you are having with the
airplane, they might want one too. A future
article will focus on how to organize and
promote races, so you have some competition.
Many hobby shops have discovered that the
Sky Raider Mach II and LA Racer 40 are good
additions to their product lines. Since they are
technically second airplanes and aerobatic
trainers, they make great everyday sport
models. If your hobby shop does not carry
these designs, show this article to the staff.
AirBorne Models is the US distributor, but
it also sells directly to consumers. Call the
company if your local hobby shop doesn’t have
Club 40 ARFs in stock.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:04 PM Page 68
October 2009 69
Jason Duda turns tight on Pylon One at the Texas
Championship; he’s going for the win. Maybe next time it will be
your turn on the podium.
The pylon is typically made from PVC pipe. As shown, the pole is
considerately covered with Ethafoam padding (pool noodles).
AirBorne Models’ Sky Raider
Mach II is available in an
Almost-Ready-to-Cover version
and in three solid colors. As with the white, yellow, or red
version, you can add decoration to identify
the Sky Raider and make it more distinctive.
Don’t forget the AMA identification tag for the
inside of the model.
Decisions, decisions. The full cowling is a nice
upgrade from the original Sky Raider. Making
the bottom a dark color is a great idea.
HouseOfPylon.com specializes in all kinds of Pylon Racing
products and carries all of the solid-color Club 40 ARFs and ARCs.
Custom color schemes as well as RTFs are available. MA
Don Stegall
[email protected]
Sources:
AirBorne Models
(925) 371-0922
www.airborne-models.com
AMA Documents:
www.modelaircraft.org/documents.aspx
RC flying at Lowe’s Motor Speedway:
www.lowesrc.com
RCPRO
(704) 968-2881
www.rcpro.org
Ken Erickson
[email protected]
RC Universe
www.rcuniverse.com
HouseOfPylon.com
(704) 225-3718
www.houseofpylon.com
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:06 PM Page 69
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 66,67,68,69
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 66,67,68,69
66 MODEL AVIATION
Pylon Racing
for Everyone
by Don Stegall
CLUB 40 PYLON Racing is sweeping the
nation. Even in places that call it something
else, many modelers have discovered the
formula that allows almost anyone with
intermediate or better skills to enjoy the sport
of racing RC models.
It’s called “Spec” racing. It works in fullscale
automobile and RC car racing. For
almost any racing competition to be fun to
watch or participate in, there has to be a level
of parity.
NASCAR recently made the switch to the
Car of Tomorrow. There were many reasons,
and cost was one of them. Parity of
competition was high on the list. Fans of road
racing are familiar with the Daytona
prototypes.
Club 40 is spec Pylon Racing. It uses
essentially identical airframes with sport
engines that produce nearly the same amount
of power. This leads to close racing, and
winning is more about pilot skill than
technology and equipment.
Properly maintaining equipment is still
important, but flying tight turns and staying on
the course are more likely to put you in the
winner’s circle than a “killer” engine.
And it is fun for the spectators because of
the suspense. With the models so evenly
matched, they are often in close proximity.
This leads to near misses and a lot of passing.
But the passing rarely consists of blowing
someone’s doors off. It usually takes time,
patience, and turning at exactly the right time
to pull it off. This is exciting and often leads to
the spectators cheering. It’s cool to have
people clapping after a tight race.
Several years ago, some pilots discovered
that the Sky Raider Mach II by The World
Models, distributed in the US by AirBorne
Models, made a fun design to race. It is neutral
enough to groove well on a Pylon course with
the control throws toned down.
With the control surfaces on high rates, the
Sky Raider is a fun everyday airplane that can
do basic aerobatics. It is a tail-dragger with a
simple tail wheel, and it taxis in and out of the
pits similar to how the sport airplanes fly at the
clubs on a regular basis.
The Sky Raider’s wing is symmetrical, and
at 550 square inches with a 53.5-inch
wingspan, it is slightly bigger than a Quickie
500 design. The fuselage is also a bit bigger
than a Quickie’s, and standard-size servos fit.
In 2006, The World Models introduced the
sleeker LA Racer 40. At first glance, it looks
as though it would be faster than the Sky
Raider Mach II. It has a cowl on the engine
and a rounded deck on top. The canopy is clear
and looks streamlined.
On closer inspection, the LA Racer’s wing
has the same airfoil, wingspan, and chord as
the Sky Raider. The stabilizer is the same size.
The measurements on the fuselage from the
engine to the wing and to the stabilizer are the
same.
However, the fin and rudder are slightly
smaller on the LA Racer 40. Another
difference is that it has dual aileron servos
mounted in the wing. They are a small amount
of added drag that practically equalizes it and
the Sky Raider. A great deal of racing with
both airplanes in the past couple years has
shown that they are effectively identical in
both speed and performance.
The airframes’ cost and color selection was
another factor. ARFs are a wonderful timesaver
for the modern modeler, but most
manufacturers make them in one color
scheme. The World Models produces several
of its models in multiple color schemes.
When Club 40 was started, the Sky Raider
Mach II was available in four schemes. It was
also an amazing bargain, at $69.99 for the
complete ARF with all hardware. The price
has since increased to $89.99 because of the
global economy and improvements that have
been made to the airframe.
AirBorne Models was asked to produce the
Sky Raider in solid colors with CA hinges.
The company responded with all-white,
-yellow, -orange, and -red. The solid colors
were an immediate hit with the racers.
Going a step further, the Sky Raider Mach
II is now available as an ARC (Almost Readyto-
Cover) for people who want a different base
color or want to use MonoKote, UltraCote, or
some other covering.
The LA Racer 40 was introduced in four
color schemes for $99.99. It has since been
increased to $109.99 and is now also offered
in solid white and solid yellow. That’s many
color schemes to choose from before adding
trim to personalize a model’s look.
Because of AMA course specifications, it
was determined that staying with .40 or
smaller engines was important. Even though
the .46 is a popular size with sport fliers, the
AMA RC Pylon Racing courses possess
bigger setbacks for engines exceeding a
displacement of .40. AMA Sport Quickie
(event 424) requires a sport .40 engine.
Even though the Club 40 rules have an
engine specification, they also have an engine
list; the only power plant currently on the list
is the Thunder Tiger Pro .40. It was found to
be the perfect match for Club 40 airframes.
STATE
SPORT
o f t h e
A group photo from the May 2007 Tri-City Race in Seguin, Texas.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:01 PM Page 66
October 2009 67
The most models that should fly in one race is four. The pilot starts the airplane, while
the caller holds until the clock counts down the release time.
The Pro 40 has proved itself to be reliable and
user-friendly in Sport Quickie.
The speed of a Club 40 airplane running a
Thunder Tiger Pro .40 is 90-95 mph. The
beauty of using this engine is that the pilot can
advance to Sport Quickie and use the same
power plants to go 120 mph or faster. Since
Club 40 is more relaxed than Quickie racing,
many groups allow a choice of comparable
sport .40 engines.
Although the Club 40 three-pole course is
the choice for AMA-class racing, many clubs
cannot fit it on their sites. The goal of Club 40
was more racing for more people in more
places.
The two-pole course works better for the
majority of clubs. With the poles and the
racing out in front of the pilots, course
workers, and spectators, it has a more familiar
feel as well. The pylons are set well back from
the runway.
The AMA rule book specifies a distance of
330 feet from the Pylon course centerline to
the pilots. This configuration was difficult to
set up on many fields and difficult to fly with
models traveling slower than 100 mph. The
course size of 660 feet also yielded 10-lap heat
times that were too high.
Testing resulted in a course with the poles
roughly 400 feet apart and 200-250 feet from
the pilots. If a course size of 396 feet is used,
10 laps equals 1.5 miles, and 10-lap heat times
have a time of roughly a minute-and-a-half if
the pilot flies a good course.
To use the smaller course, waivers were
required to get AMA sanctions for the races.
Through the hard work of Chuck Waller, a
safety officer in Texas, and AMA officials, a
course was approved for Club 40 that is
shorter and has smaller setbacks. See
Document 540-B, “Set-Back Distances for
Sport Pylon Racing,” on the AMA Web site.
Most clubs can host this course. It is even
possible to have the two-pole course set up
and intermingle racing activities with sportflying.
But make sure that the sport fliers are
aware of the pylons and don’t fly hot laps
while sport-flying is taking place.
Texas has been one of the hotbeds of Club
40 racing. Ken Erickson started with six or
seven pilots. Chuck Waller got involved and
took it to a new level. He traveled across the
state promoting Club 40 and organized quite a
few races. His Texas Championship Club 40
race at the Austin Radio Control Association
field on November 1, 2008, was a big success.
H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler started flying RC
in 2007. As president and general manager of
Lowe’s Motor Speedway near Charlotte,
North Carolina, at the time, he was able to
help the Flying Aces Pilots Association, of
the Charlotte area, when it temporarily lost its
flying site.
I learned about the flying site at Lowe’s
and found that I could set up a two-pole
course for Club 40 racing. After
demonstrating the event, I got three of the
club officers interested in racing; Evan
Doughty, Terry Hickey, and Larry Moore got
models for the class.
We held three races at Lowe’s in
2008 and have four planned for 2009. See
the Web site for RC flying at Lowe’s
Motor Speedway for more info.
Since Club 40 is not currently an AMA
event, the rules are up to individual groups.
Those that the Texas contingent developed,
with input from people in other areas, can be
found on the RCPRO Web site. They are
accessible via the “Contents” tab and the
“Club 40 Rules” link.
A complete list of allowed modifications
specifies limits for the little things that
modelers do to enhance their aircraft. The
rules page also lists the engines that are
allowed for RCPRO Club 40 racing.
Ken Erickson is the RCPRO Club 40
Racing Committee chairman. He is a great
resource for clubs that are interested in getting
started in this activity. If your group is racing
Club 40 or Sky Raiders, please get in touch
with Ken (his e-mail address is in the
“Sources” list at the end of this article) so he
can put you on the contact list.
Club 40 has attained enough popularity
that a forum was created for it on
RCUniverse. Choose “Airplanes” from the
“Forums” menu, and then click on “Pylon
Universe—RC Pylon Racing.”
Most of the traffic there has been people in
groups using the RCPRO Club 40 rules, but
the section is open to all modelers involved in
Club 40 racing and all are invited to use the
forum. I hear about many groups across the
country that do not use the forums. Please join
us and spread the word about your racing
activities.
Club 40 racing is easy in which to
participate. A modeler can buy the ARF and
Have the thrill of a lifetime
with the average RC model
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:33 PM Page 67
68 MODEL AVIATION
The caller can push an aircraft at the launch. It’s an intense moment at which the pilot
needs to stay focused on heading the model straight for the first pylon.
As on USRA and Reno-style course layouts, Club Racing has pilots outside the course
rounding just two pylons. Keeping it fun is the goal.
When pilots are well matched, races are
exciting to watch but even better in
which to participate.
The spectators sit a good 250 feet away
from the racecourse. Safety is paramount,
so don’t hesitate if your club wants to
position the audience farther away.
Aircraft identification and recognition are
crucial, and they are an opportunity to have
fun with graphics. AirBorne Models’ Sky
Raider is ideal for sport racing.
Static photos and illustration by the author Flight photos by Lori Ann Kirby
engine on a Wednesday and race on Saturday.
Anyone who can assemble an ARF can handle
the Club 40 models; no special equipment is
needed. Any standard radio will do, but a
modern type with dual rates and exponential
makes it easier to tune an airplane for racing.
If there is Club 40 or Sky Raider Mach II
racing in your area, jump in. If not, get yourself
a Club 40 model and practice. When others see
how much fun you are having with the
airplane, they might want one too. A future
article will focus on how to organize and
promote races, so you have some competition.
Many hobby shops have discovered that the
Sky Raider Mach II and LA Racer 40 are good
additions to their product lines. Since they are
technically second airplanes and aerobatic
trainers, they make great everyday sport
models. If your hobby shop does not carry
these designs, show this article to the staff.
AirBorne Models is the US distributor, but
it also sells directly to consumers. Call the
company if your local hobby shop doesn’t have
Club 40 ARFs in stock.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:04 PM Page 68
October 2009 69
Jason Duda turns tight on Pylon One at the Texas
Championship; he’s going for the win. Maybe next time it will be
your turn on the podium.
The pylon is typically made from PVC pipe. As shown, the pole is
considerately covered with Ethafoam padding (pool noodles).
AirBorne Models’ Sky Raider
Mach II is available in an
Almost-Ready-to-Cover version
and in three solid colors. As with the white, yellow, or red
version, you can add decoration to identify
the Sky Raider and make it more distinctive.
Don’t forget the AMA identification tag for the
inside of the model.
Decisions, decisions. The full cowling is a nice
upgrade from the original Sky Raider. Making
the bottom a dark color is a great idea.
HouseOfPylon.com specializes in all kinds of Pylon Racing
products and carries all of the solid-color Club 40 ARFs and ARCs.
Custom color schemes as well as RTFs are available. MA
Don Stegall
[email protected]
Sources:
AirBorne Models
(925) 371-0922
www.airborne-models.com
AMA Documents:
www.modelaircraft.org/documents.aspx
RC flying at Lowe’s Motor Speedway:
www.lowesrc.com
RCPRO
(704) 968-2881
www.rcpro.org
Ken Erickson
[email protected]
RC Universe
www.rcuniverse.com
HouseOfPylon.com
(704) 225-3718
www.houseofpylon.com
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:06 PM Page 69
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 66,67,68,69
66 MODEL AVIATION
Pylon Racing
for Everyone
by Don Stegall
CLUB 40 PYLON Racing is sweeping the
nation. Even in places that call it something
else, many modelers have discovered the
formula that allows almost anyone with
intermediate or better skills to enjoy the sport
of racing RC models.
It’s called “Spec” racing. It works in fullscale
automobile and RC car racing. For
almost any racing competition to be fun to
watch or participate in, there has to be a level
of parity.
NASCAR recently made the switch to the
Car of Tomorrow. There were many reasons,
and cost was one of them. Parity of
competition was high on the list. Fans of road
racing are familiar with the Daytona
prototypes.
Club 40 is spec Pylon Racing. It uses
essentially identical airframes with sport
engines that produce nearly the same amount
of power. This leads to close racing, and
winning is more about pilot skill than
technology and equipment.
Properly maintaining equipment is still
important, but flying tight turns and staying on
the course are more likely to put you in the
winner’s circle than a “killer” engine.
And it is fun for the spectators because of
the suspense. With the models so evenly
matched, they are often in close proximity.
This leads to near misses and a lot of passing.
But the passing rarely consists of blowing
someone’s doors off. It usually takes time,
patience, and turning at exactly the right time
to pull it off. This is exciting and often leads to
the spectators cheering. It’s cool to have
people clapping after a tight race.
Several years ago, some pilots discovered
that the Sky Raider Mach II by The World
Models, distributed in the US by AirBorne
Models, made a fun design to race. It is neutral
enough to groove well on a Pylon course with
the control throws toned down.
With the control surfaces on high rates, the
Sky Raider is a fun everyday airplane that can
do basic aerobatics. It is a tail-dragger with a
simple tail wheel, and it taxis in and out of the
pits similar to how the sport airplanes fly at the
clubs on a regular basis.
The Sky Raider’s wing is symmetrical, and
at 550 square inches with a 53.5-inch
wingspan, it is slightly bigger than a Quickie
500 design. The fuselage is also a bit bigger
than a Quickie’s, and standard-size servos fit.
In 2006, The World Models introduced the
sleeker LA Racer 40. At first glance, it looks
as though it would be faster than the Sky
Raider Mach II. It has a cowl on the engine
and a rounded deck on top. The canopy is clear
and looks streamlined.
On closer inspection, the LA Racer’s wing
has the same airfoil, wingspan, and chord as
the Sky Raider. The stabilizer is the same size.
The measurements on the fuselage from the
engine to the wing and to the stabilizer are the
same.
However, the fin and rudder are slightly
smaller on the LA Racer 40. Another
difference is that it has dual aileron servos
mounted in the wing. They are a small amount
of added drag that practically equalizes it and
the Sky Raider. A great deal of racing with
both airplanes in the past couple years has
shown that they are effectively identical in
both speed and performance.
The airframes’ cost and color selection was
another factor. ARFs are a wonderful timesaver
for the modern modeler, but most
manufacturers make them in one color
scheme. The World Models produces several
of its models in multiple color schemes.
When Club 40 was started, the Sky Raider
Mach II was available in four schemes. It was
also an amazing bargain, at $69.99 for the
complete ARF with all hardware. The price
has since increased to $89.99 because of the
global economy and improvements that have
been made to the airframe.
AirBorne Models was asked to produce the
Sky Raider in solid colors with CA hinges.
The company responded with all-white,
-yellow, -orange, and -red. The solid colors
were an immediate hit with the racers.
Going a step further, the Sky Raider Mach
II is now available as an ARC (Almost Readyto-
Cover) for people who want a different base
color or want to use MonoKote, UltraCote, or
some other covering.
The LA Racer 40 was introduced in four
color schemes for $99.99. It has since been
increased to $109.99 and is now also offered
in solid white and solid yellow. That’s many
color schemes to choose from before adding
trim to personalize a model’s look.
Because of AMA course specifications, it
was determined that staying with .40 or
smaller engines was important. Even though
the .46 is a popular size with sport fliers, the
AMA RC Pylon Racing courses possess
bigger setbacks for engines exceeding a
displacement of .40. AMA Sport Quickie
(event 424) requires a sport .40 engine.
Even though the Club 40 rules have an
engine specification, they also have an engine
list; the only power plant currently on the list
is the Thunder Tiger Pro .40. It was found to
be the perfect match for Club 40 airframes.
STATE
SPORT
o f t h e
A group photo from the May 2007 Tri-City Race in Seguin, Texas.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:01 PM Page 66
October 2009 67
The most models that should fly in one race is four. The pilot starts the airplane, while
the caller holds until the clock counts down the release time.
The Pro 40 has proved itself to be reliable and
user-friendly in Sport Quickie.
The speed of a Club 40 airplane running a
Thunder Tiger Pro .40 is 90-95 mph. The
beauty of using this engine is that the pilot can
advance to Sport Quickie and use the same
power plants to go 120 mph or faster. Since
Club 40 is more relaxed than Quickie racing,
many groups allow a choice of comparable
sport .40 engines.
Although the Club 40 three-pole course is
the choice for AMA-class racing, many clubs
cannot fit it on their sites. The goal of Club 40
was more racing for more people in more
places.
The two-pole course works better for the
majority of clubs. With the poles and the
racing out in front of the pilots, course
workers, and spectators, it has a more familiar
feel as well. The pylons are set well back from
the runway.
The AMA rule book specifies a distance of
330 feet from the Pylon course centerline to
the pilots. This configuration was difficult to
set up on many fields and difficult to fly with
models traveling slower than 100 mph. The
course size of 660 feet also yielded 10-lap heat
times that were too high.
Testing resulted in a course with the poles
roughly 400 feet apart and 200-250 feet from
the pilots. If a course size of 396 feet is used,
10 laps equals 1.5 miles, and 10-lap heat times
have a time of roughly a minute-and-a-half if
the pilot flies a good course.
To use the smaller course, waivers were
required to get AMA sanctions for the races.
Through the hard work of Chuck Waller, a
safety officer in Texas, and AMA officials, a
course was approved for Club 40 that is
shorter and has smaller setbacks. See
Document 540-B, “Set-Back Distances for
Sport Pylon Racing,” on the AMA Web site.
Most clubs can host this course. It is even
possible to have the two-pole course set up
and intermingle racing activities with sportflying.
But make sure that the sport fliers are
aware of the pylons and don’t fly hot laps
while sport-flying is taking place.
Texas has been one of the hotbeds of Club
40 racing. Ken Erickson started with six or
seven pilots. Chuck Waller got involved and
took it to a new level. He traveled across the
state promoting Club 40 and organized quite a
few races. His Texas Championship Club 40
race at the Austin Radio Control Association
field on November 1, 2008, was a big success.
H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler started flying RC
in 2007. As president and general manager of
Lowe’s Motor Speedway near Charlotte,
North Carolina, at the time, he was able to
help the Flying Aces Pilots Association, of
the Charlotte area, when it temporarily lost its
flying site.
I learned about the flying site at Lowe’s
and found that I could set up a two-pole
course for Club 40 racing. After
demonstrating the event, I got three of the
club officers interested in racing; Evan
Doughty, Terry Hickey, and Larry Moore got
models for the class.
We held three races at Lowe’s in
2008 and have four planned for 2009. See
the Web site for RC flying at Lowe’s
Motor Speedway for more info.
Since Club 40 is not currently an AMA
event, the rules are up to individual groups.
Those that the Texas contingent developed,
with input from people in other areas, can be
found on the RCPRO Web site. They are
accessible via the “Contents” tab and the
“Club 40 Rules” link.
A complete list of allowed modifications
specifies limits for the little things that
modelers do to enhance their aircraft. The
rules page also lists the engines that are
allowed for RCPRO Club 40 racing.
Ken Erickson is the RCPRO Club 40
Racing Committee chairman. He is a great
resource for clubs that are interested in getting
started in this activity. If your group is racing
Club 40 or Sky Raiders, please get in touch
with Ken (his e-mail address is in the
“Sources” list at the end of this article) so he
can put you on the contact list.
Club 40 has attained enough popularity
that a forum was created for it on
RCUniverse. Choose “Airplanes” from the
“Forums” menu, and then click on “Pylon
Universe—RC Pylon Racing.”
Most of the traffic there has been people in
groups using the RCPRO Club 40 rules, but
the section is open to all modelers involved in
Club 40 racing and all are invited to use the
forum. I hear about many groups across the
country that do not use the forums. Please join
us and spread the word about your racing
activities.
Club 40 racing is easy in which to
participate. A modeler can buy the ARF and
Have the thrill of a lifetime
with the average RC model
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:33 PM Page 67
68 MODEL AVIATION
The caller can push an aircraft at the launch. It’s an intense moment at which the pilot
needs to stay focused on heading the model straight for the first pylon.
As on USRA and Reno-style course layouts, Club Racing has pilots outside the course
rounding just two pylons. Keeping it fun is the goal.
When pilots are well matched, races are
exciting to watch but even better in
which to participate.
The spectators sit a good 250 feet away
from the racecourse. Safety is paramount,
so don’t hesitate if your club wants to
position the audience farther away.
Aircraft identification and recognition are
crucial, and they are an opportunity to have
fun with graphics. AirBorne Models’ Sky
Raider is ideal for sport racing.
Static photos and illustration by the author Flight photos by Lori Ann Kirby
engine on a Wednesday and race on Saturday.
Anyone who can assemble an ARF can handle
the Club 40 models; no special equipment is
needed. Any standard radio will do, but a
modern type with dual rates and exponential
makes it easier to tune an airplane for racing.
If there is Club 40 or Sky Raider Mach II
racing in your area, jump in. If not, get yourself
a Club 40 model and practice. When others see
how much fun you are having with the
airplane, they might want one too. A future
article will focus on how to organize and
promote races, so you have some competition.
Many hobby shops have discovered that the
Sky Raider Mach II and LA Racer 40 are good
additions to their product lines. Since they are
technically second airplanes and aerobatic
trainers, they make great everyday sport
models. If your hobby shop does not carry
these designs, show this article to the staff.
AirBorne Models is the US distributor, but
it also sells directly to consumers. Call the
company if your local hobby shop doesn’t have
Club 40 ARFs in stock.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:04 PM Page 68
October 2009 69
Jason Duda turns tight on Pylon One at the Texas
Championship; he’s going for the win. Maybe next time it will be
your turn on the podium.
The pylon is typically made from PVC pipe. As shown, the pole is
considerately covered with Ethafoam padding (pool noodles).
AirBorne Models’ Sky Raider
Mach II is available in an
Almost-Ready-to-Cover version
and in three solid colors. As with the white, yellow, or red
version, you can add decoration to identify
the Sky Raider and make it more distinctive.
Don’t forget the AMA identification tag for the
inside of the model.
Decisions, decisions. The full cowling is a nice
upgrade from the original Sky Raider. Making
the bottom a dark color is a great idea.
HouseOfPylon.com specializes in all kinds of Pylon Racing
products and carries all of the solid-color Club 40 ARFs and ARCs.
Custom color schemes as well as RTFs are available. MA
Don Stegall
[email protected]
Sources:
AirBorne Models
(925) 371-0922
www.airborne-models.com
AMA Documents:
www.modelaircraft.org/documents.aspx
RC flying at Lowe’s Motor Speedway:
www.lowesrc.com
RCPRO
(704) 968-2881
www.rcpro.org
Ken Erickson
[email protected]
RC Universe
www.rcuniverse.com
HouseOfPylon.com
(704) 225-3718
www.houseofpylon.com
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:06 PM Page 69
Edition: Model Aviation - 2009/10
Page Numbers: 66,67,68,69
66 MODEL AVIATION
Pylon Racing
for Everyone
by Don Stegall
CLUB 40 PYLON Racing is sweeping the
nation. Even in places that call it something
else, many modelers have discovered the
formula that allows almost anyone with
intermediate or better skills to enjoy the sport
of racing RC models.
It’s called “Spec” racing. It works in fullscale
automobile and RC car racing. For
almost any racing competition to be fun to
watch or participate in, there has to be a level
of parity.
NASCAR recently made the switch to the
Car of Tomorrow. There were many reasons,
and cost was one of them. Parity of
competition was high on the list. Fans of road
racing are familiar with the Daytona
prototypes.
Club 40 is spec Pylon Racing. It uses
essentially identical airframes with sport
engines that produce nearly the same amount
of power. This leads to close racing, and
winning is more about pilot skill than
technology and equipment.
Properly maintaining equipment is still
important, but flying tight turns and staying on
the course are more likely to put you in the
winner’s circle than a “killer” engine.
And it is fun for the spectators because of
the suspense. With the models so evenly
matched, they are often in close proximity.
This leads to near misses and a lot of passing.
But the passing rarely consists of blowing
someone’s doors off. It usually takes time,
patience, and turning at exactly the right time
to pull it off. This is exciting and often leads to
the spectators cheering. It’s cool to have
people clapping after a tight race.
Several years ago, some pilots discovered
that the Sky Raider Mach II by The World
Models, distributed in the US by AirBorne
Models, made a fun design to race. It is neutral
enough to groove well on a Pylon course with
the control throws toned down.
With the control surfaces on high rates, the
Sky Raider is a fun everyday airplane that can
do basic aerobatics. It is a tail-dragger with a
simple tail wheel, and it taxis in and out of the
pits similar to how the sport airplanes fly at the
clubs on a regular basis.
The Sky Raider’s wing is symmetrical, and
at 550 square inches with a 53.5-inch
wingspan, it is slightly bigger than a Quickie
500 design. The fuselage is also a bit bigger
than a Quickie’s, and standard-size servos fit.
In 2006, The World Models introduced the
sleeker LA Racer 40. At first glance, it looks
as though it would be faster than the Sky
Raider Mach II. It has a cowl on the engine
and a rounded deck on top. The canopy is clear
and looks streamlined.
On closer inspection, the LA Racer’s wing
has the same airfoil, wingspan, and chord as
the Sky Raider. The stabilizer is the same size.
The measurements on the fuselage from the
engine to the wing and to the stabilizer are the
same.
However, the fin and rudder are slightly
smaller on the LA Racer 40. Another
difference is that it has dual aileron servos
mounted in the wing. They are a small amount
of added drag that practically equalizes it and
the Sky Raider. A great deal of racing with
both airplanes in the past couple years has
shown that they are effectively identical in
both speed and performance.
The airframes’ cost and color selection was
another factor. ARFs are a wonderful timesaver
for the modern modeler, but most
manufacturers make them in one color
scheme. The World Models produces several
of its models in multiple color schemes.
When Club 40 was started, the Sky Raider
Mach II was available in four schemes. It was
also an amazing bargain, at $69.99 for the
complete ARF with all hardware. The price
has since increased to $89.99 because of the
global economy and improvements that have
been made to the airframe.
AirBorne Models was asked to produce the
Sky Raider in solid colors with CA hinges.
The company responded with all-white,
-yellow, -orange, and -red. The solid colors
were an immediate hit with the racers.
Going a step further, the Sky Raider Mach
II is now available as an ARC (Almost Readyto-
Cover) for people who want a different base
color or want to use MonoKote, UltraCote, or
some other covering.
The LA Racer 40 was introduced in four
color schemes for $99.99. It has since been
increased to $109.99 and is now also offered
in solid white and solid yellow. That’s many
color schemes to choose from before adding
trim to personalize a model’s look.
Because of AMA course specifications, it
was determined that staying with .40 or
smaller engines was important. Even though
the .46 is a popular size with sport fliers, the
AMA RC Pylon Racing courses possess
bigger setbacks for engines exceeding a
displacement of .40. AMA Sport Quickie
(event 424) requires a sport .40 engine.
Even though the Club 40 rules have an
engine specification, they also have an engine
list; the only power plant currently on the list
is the Thunder Tiger Pro .40. It was found to
be the perfect match for Club 40 airframes.
STATE
SPORT
o f t h e
A group photo from the May 2007 Tri-City Race in Seguin, Texas.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:01 PM Page 66
October 2009 67
The most models that should fly in one race is four. The pilot starts the airplane, while
the caller holds until the clock counts down the release time.
The Pro 40 has proved itself to be reliable and
user-friendly in Sport Quickie.
The speed of a Club 40 airplane running a
Thunder Tiger Pro .40 is 90-95 mph. The
beauty of using this engine is that the pilot can
advance to Sport Quickie and use the same
power plants to go 120 mph or faster. Since
Club 40 is more relaxed than Quickie racing,
many groups allow a choice of comparable
sport .40 engines.
Although the Club 40 three-pole course is
the choice for AMA-class racing, many clubs
cannot fit it on their sites. The goal of Club 40
was more racing for more people in more
places.
The two-pole course works better for the
majority of clubs. With the poles and the
racing out in front of the pilots, course
workers, and spectators, it has a more familiar
feel as well. The pylons are set well back from
the runway.
The AMA rule book specifies a distance of
330 feet from the Pylon course centerline to
the pilots. This configuration was difficult to
set up on many fields and difficult to fly with
models traveling slower than 100 mph. The
course size of 660 feet also yielded 10-lap heat
times that were too high.
Testing resulted in a course with the poles
roughly 400 feet apart and 200-250 feet from
the pilots. If a course size of 396 feet is used,
10 laps equals 1.5 miles, and 10-lap heat times
have a time of roughly a minute-and-a-half if
the pilot flies a good course.
To use the smaller course, waivers were
required to get AMA sanctions for the races.
Through the hard work of Chuck Waller, a
safety officer in Texas, and AMA officials, a
course was approved for Club 40 that is
shorter and has smaller setbacks. See
Document 540-B, “Set-Back Distances for
Sport Pylon Racing,” on the AMA Web site.
Most clubs can host this course. It is even
possible to have the two-pole course set up
and intermingle racing activities with sportflying.
But make sure that the sport fliers are
aware of the pylons and don’t fly hot laps
while sport-flying is taking place.
Texas has been one of the hotbeds of Club
40 racing. Ken Erickson started with six or
seven pilots. Chuck Waller got involved and
took it to a new level. He traveled across the
state promoting Club 40 and organized quite a
few races. His Texas Championship Club 40
race at the Austin Radio Control Association
field on November 1, 2008, was a big success.
H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler started flying RC
in 2007. As president and general manager of
Lowe’s Motor Speedway near Charlotte,
North Carolina, at the time, he was able to
help the Flying Aces Pilots Association, of
the Charlotte area, when it temporarily lost its
flying site.
I learned about the flying site at Lowe’s
and found that I could set up a two-pole
course for Club 40 racing. After
demonstrating the event, I got three of the
club officers interested in racing; Evan
Doughty, Terry Hickey, and Larry Moore got
models for the class.
We held three races at Lowe’s in
2008 and have four planned for 2009. See
the Web site for RC flying at Lowe’s
Motor Speedway for more info.
Since Club 40 is not currently an AMA
event, the rules are up to individual groups.
Those that the Texas contingent developed,
with input from people in other areas, can be
found on the RCPRO Web site. They are
accessible via the “Contents” tab and the
“Club 40 Rules” link.
A complete list of allowed modifications
specifies limits for the little things that
modelers do to enhance their aircraft. The
rules page also lists the engines that are
allowed for RCPRO Club 40 racing.
Ken Erickson is the RCPRO Club 40
Racing Committee chairman. He is a great
resource for clubs that are interested in getting
started in this activity. If your group is racing
Club 40 or Sky Raiders, please get in touch
with Ken (his e-mail address is in the
“Sources” list at the end of this article) so he
can put you on the contact list.
Club 40 has attained enough popularity
that a forum was created for it on
RCUniverse. Choose “Airplanes” from the
“Forums” menu, and then click on “Pylon
Universe—RC Pylon Racing.”
Most of the traffic there has been people in
groups using the RCPRO Club 40 rules, but
the section is open to all modelers involved in
Club 40 racing and all are invited to use the
forum. I hear about many groups across the
country that do not use the forums. Please join
us and spread the word about your racing
activities.
Club 40 racing is easy in which to
participate. A modeler can buy the ARF and
Have the thrill of a lifetime
with the average RC model
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:33 PM Page 67
68 MODEL AVIATION
The caller can push an aircraft at the launch. It’s an intense moment at which the pilot
needs to stay focused on heading the model straight for the first pylon.
As on USRA and Reno-style course layouts, Club Racing has pilots outside the course
rounding just two pylons. Keeping it fun is the goal.
When pilots are well matched, races are
exciting to watch but even better in
which to participate.
The spectators sit a good 250 feet away
from the racecourse. Safety is paramount,
so don’t hesitate if your club wants to
position the audience farther away.
Aircraft identification and recognition are
crucial, and they are an opportunity to have
fun with graphics. AirBorne Models’ Sky
Raider is ideal for sport racing.
Static photos and illustration by the author Flight photos by Lori Ann Kirby
engine on a Wednesday and race on Saturday.
Anyone who can assemble an ARF can handle
the Club 40 models; no special equipment is
needed. Any standard radio will do, but a
modern type with dual rates and exponential
makes it easier to tune an airplane for racing.
If there is Club 40 or Sky Raider Mach II
racing in your area, jump in. If not, get yourself
a Club 40 model and practice. When others see
how much fun you are having with the
airplane, they might want one too. A future
article will focus on how to organize and
promote races, so you have some competition.
Many hobby shops have discovered that the
Sky Raider Mach II and LA Racer 40 are good
additions to their product lines. Since they are
technically second airplanes and aerobatic
trainers, they make great everyday sport
models. If your hobby shop does not carry
these designs, show this article to the staff.
AirBorne Models is the US distributor, but
it also sells directly to consumers. Call the
company if your local hobby shop doesn’t have
Club 40 ARFs in stock.
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:04 PM Page 68
October 2009 69
Jason Duda turns tight on Pylon One at the Texas
Championship; he’s going for the win. Maybe next time it will be
your turn on the podium.
The pylon is typically made from PVC pipe. As shown, the pole is
considerately covered with Ethafoam padding (pool noodles).
AirBorne Models’ Sky Raider
Mach II is available in an
Almost-Ready-to-Cover version
and in three solid colors. As with the white, yellow, or red
version, you can add decoration to identify
the Sky Raider and make it more distinctive.
Don’t forget the AMA identification tag for the
inside of the model.
Decisions, decisions. The full cowling is a nice
upgrade from the original Sky Raider. Making
the bottom a dark color is a great idea.
HouseOfPylon.com specializes in all kinds of Pylon Racing
products and carries all of the solid-color Club 40 ARFs and ARCs.
Custom color schemes as well as RTFs are available. MA
Don Stegall
[email protected]
Sources:
AirBorne Models
(925) 371-0922
www.airborne-models.com
AMA Documents:
www.modelaircraft.org/documents.aspx
RC flying at Lowe’s Motor Speedway:
www.lowesrc.com
RCPRO
(704) 968-2881
www.rcpro.org
Ken Erickson
[email protected]
RC Universe
www.rcuniverse.com
HouseOfPylon.com
(704) 225-3718
www.houseofpylon.com
10sig3.QXD 8/21/09 12:06 PM Page 69