Pattern Coaching Day

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Saturday, October 20 was the first Pattern day in a long while. This was promoted as a Coaching day with a view to teaching some the finer skills required to achieve crisper maneuvers rather than just "hot dogging" around the sky. When some of the accomplished pattern fliers take to the sky they can make some of the more complex pattern routines seem easy. Consistency is the key; achieving well rounded loops each and every time, Cuban Eights that are not rushed and entry and exit levels are the same etc. Judicious use of the throttle and rare use of full throttle is a hallmark of the good pilots. Whilst some maneuvers can be done with a decent trainer, it's easy to see the difference when a dedicated Pattern ship is flown. Kevin Hay highlighted this when flying his Magic and the YS140 seemingly pulling the large model through the routines quite effortlessly.

Whilst the day didn't see a roll out of a lot of new pilots champing at the bit to learn more about Pattern flying, the usual regulars had a go ably supported by caller to the pros, Merv Cameron. Merv has been around a while calling the routines here and are a regular observer on the mainland so his support was well received by those participating. Tassie turned on another near perfect day weather wise although the wind did get a little blustery later in the day. The barbecue lunch went down well as always and some social banter during lunch brought a few laughs.

It was good to see our latest "new" member Fred Willis make the journey from Swansea although the blustery conditions in the afternoon precluded any opportunity for him to get a fly. Fred was a member in the late 70's and has been a regular visitor over many months and it is nice to now welcome him back into the fold as a fully fledged member.

George

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