Radio Control: Slope Soaring
DO YOU REMEMBER what it was about aviation that first stimulated your interest and enthusiasm? What was it that sparked your interest in modeling? Whatever it was, I'm glad you're reading this magazine and that you have a keen interest in this great hobby/sport. But a question plagues modelers: how do we get new people involved? And specifically, how do we involve children? Considering all of today's alternatives to aviation, this is a tough question to answer. Nonetheless, it is a question that modelers and clubs should address. Some may wonder why we should try to involve new people-getting people involved is the right thing to do! Introducing people to modeling is the right thing for a number of reasons-not the least of which is that it will make you feel good. You will enjoy helping others become involved and have fun. This involvement process may even assist a youngster in the difficult task of making a responsible recreational choice in our challenging society.
Radio Control: Slope Soaring
About four weeks ago I received a call from an enthusiastic beginner who wanted to know what kind of model to purchase for the transition to Slope Soaring. We discussed the issues related to the kind of flying he wanted to do, and arrived at what I hope was a good decision for him. Afterward, this flier encouraged me to share my insights with other modelers who might also be in the same predicament. First, however, let me tell you about a project I'm just finishing up: a 1/4-scale Robbe ASH-26. I purchased the model a few months back from Hobby Hangar (153 Lloyd Ave., Florence KY 41402; Tel.: [606] 283-5746) for a very good price. When the model arrived I was quite impressed by the quality and completeness of the kit.
Radio Control: Slope Soaring
HISTORICALLY, SLOPE Soaring hasn't produced large-participation competitions or events. Organizers are probably inhibited about organizing them due to the nature of the flying environment. Slope Soaring's total dependance on wind to generate lift isn't conducive to scheduling events! If the wind doesn't blow, a slope event becomes a thermal affair. Consequently, you can count standout Slope Soaring events on one hand. Memorable events include the International Slope Races; the Torrey Pines Scale Fun-Fly; the Mid-Columbia Slope Races; the Tri-Cities Scale Fun Flies; and the World Soaring Jamboree(.
Radio Control Slope Soaring
NEW ADDRESS: For those of you who may have tried to communicate with me recently and failed, it may be because I have an address change. I didn't move; Postal Service just decided to give me a street address instead of a PO box. My new address is 3540 Eastlake Dr., W. Richland WA 99352. My E-mail address is [email protected]. Hope to hear from you! Airfoil Program: We have great news for you this month from Herk Stokely (of SoarTech fame). Because of his drive to offer technical information to the soaring community and to move our great hobby forward, SoarTech has given us a wealth of knowledge. If you haven't seen SoarTech, you should!
Radio Control: Slope Soaring
WORLD MODEL JAMBOREE: If you've heard rumblings about a World Model Jamboree (WMJ), you may be happy to know they are now more than just rumblings. A WMJ is coming in 1998, and it promises to be the largest model aviation event ever. It is being hosted by a number of clubs in the northwest corner of Washington state. The event is scheduled for June 26-July 6, 1998. Yes, the organizers know this is a long way off; however, they want you to be ready and well stocked with aircraft come 1998. They also wanted lots of time to plan and organize this monumental event. WMJ is slated to include all types of model aviation events, including a model show and contest. It will include a number of Soaring contests, fun-flys, and seminars. Events for the Slope Soaring enthusiast will also be included.
