Tim Peters

DAVE CHESNEY gets a break this month while I describe the '79 Nats Helicopter event held at Hendrick's Sod Farm on the southwest edge of Lincoln, Nebraska. The site was excellent for both the helicopter and soaring events; large, flat, and without obstructions. When the contestants arrived Monday morning, July 30, one problem was evident-the grass was so thick and long that it was nearly impossible to fly without your tail rotor blades hanging up! The management of the sod farm had workers out right away and they quickly trimmed the grass out in the flying area. The contestants and local help assisted CD Bob Haden in setting up the impound area and plywood helipads so flying could get underway. You may have heard of Bob's Toledo trophy-winning helicopters at the '78 and '79 shows. The next time you see him, ask him how much he sold the silver one for! The number of contestants was disappointingly low-a total of eight fliers. All were Open entries-no Junior or Senior. It amazed me that there was no more interest in a contest close to the geographical center of the U.S. that only happens to decide the National Champions! Regardless of the size, the competition was fierce. We all became good friends, and worked hard at public relations with the abundant spectators. The media was out too, and we received front page billing in one of the local newspapers, along with a nice article.