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Classic Stunt judges Jerry Eichten (left) and Tim Wescott watch as Mike Massey's Nobler passes. Flying Lines photo. Jim Walker Memorial builds enthusiasm for 2015 seasonApril 17-18-19, East Delta Park, Portland, Ore.Nice weather, excellent organization, good food and top-notch competition got the Northwest contest season underway at the 2015 Jim Walker Memorial Spring Tune-Up. It was a busy three days with Speed on Friday, three classes of stunt and two classes of combat on Saturday, and combat, stunt and carrier on Sunday. Richard Entwhistle was the capable contest director, assisted by Dave Royer. Barbara White handled the registration/scoring table, Richard Entwhistle at the airplane weighing station, Robert Ladd and several assistants at the food buffet, and lots of other Fireballs and other volunteers helping along the way. Event directors were Mike Hazel for speed, Scott Riese for stunt, Gary Harris for combat, and Joe Just and Dave Miller in carrier. All were assisted by a large and willing crew of judges, timers, etc. This contest's scores are reflected in the Northwest control-line competition standings. Speed event director's reportSpeed was moderately attended, with the big draw this year the Northwest B Proto event. Featuring mandatory use of the O.S. LA 25 engine, it is very user-friendly to all levels of modelers. Rather than focusing on lots of engine trickery, the event is emphasizing use of good basic modeling skills. These include building a good light and straight plane (sounds like other events, eh?), setting up a proper running tank, and experimenting to find the best prop. Top entry in the NW record ratio was Ken Burdick's F2D Proto which set a new NW record. Ken employed a rather unique plane which featured a team racer style wing. It was very light! Results in the AMA record ratio division were pretty mediocre, with Mike Hazel turning in a substandard flight in 21 sport speed. Weather was good, and the only question now is -- where were the rest of the speed flyers? -- Mike Hazel Carrier director's reportThe Carrier section of the "Tune-Up" went very well with increased participation. The deck was ready to go early in the morning and was fairly busy all day long. We were the last group to officially come to the close of the contest. I guess that's because we have so much fun. It was great to see Shawn Parker re join the fun, as he has been absent from the scene for some time. Dave Miller provided a lot of help in keeping the day moving along, and managed to get his first ever score in .40 Profile Carrier. His lady friend Hope turned out to be a great timer who jumped in any time she was needed. Wilber Hicks from California made the trip and seemed to be having a good time. Mike Hazel and Mike Potter added some real dedication to the event. The Johnson family once again came and their help in timing and scoring were a real blessing. I know I missed remembering everyone who helped set up the deck, tearing down the deck, timing flights, but without such help Carrier would not have been flown. As for myself, it was a pleasure to be the ED for Carrier. This was my swan song for being in charge of Carrier. I do so hope to continue to fly the event, but it is time to step aside, sit on the sidelines awaiting my turn to fly, tell long boring stories, meet new friends, give thanks for the old friends that I have gained in Carrier over the years. See you at the circle! -- Joe Just |
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