[1936_flying_aces_stick]

How could a person get into Competition flying? I live in BC. Is there any competition events here that I could enter? Any info would be great, Thanks!

[TLyttle]

All competitions are listed in the MAC magazine (you are a memeber, aren't you?); you may also want to check with the BC Zone Director (4-60 on this site) for more info.

Personally, I gave up competition 20-odd years ago, and simply do not miss the stress. But whatever works for you...

[AJCoholic]

If you like competition, two things I have participated in are IMAC (scale aerobatic flying) and SAM (old timer) contests.

The IMAC is a whole lot of fun. Very "low stress", fun type competition with emphasis on iomproving your flying and having fun with the other flyers.

I found the SAM flying also very much fun, although it may be harder to find a local group that hosts any competitive events.

It does not matter what the discipline is. Competition activity is the fastest way to improve one's knowledge, building skills and flying ability.

Ed S

[AJCoholic]

agree 100%

[Steven Dew]

I do agree, that the best way to improve
is competing. You have the opportunity
to meet a lot of nice people, who's
interests are the same as yours.
You can learn alot. Not just flying,
but building tips, setup tips, and a whole
host of other things. You will find the
people you meet at these events, only
to happy to give you advice. The trick
is to find what works best for you.

One thing to remember. Set your own
goals and don't worry where you place
in the standings and don't forget to
enjoy yourself. A good place to start
is to bring you planes home safely after
an event.

[JimMcIntyre]

What Steven said.

I'll only add that, when you compete, you will be more publicly "visible". Be prepared for critics, don't let them bother you, just remember that you're actually in the competition and they're on the sidelines wishing they had the ability (and the nads) to be where you are.

Be true to yourself, humble and realistic, and most importantly, remember you will be more visible to the non-modelling community. Keep this in mind and please be a positive representative for the rest of us....

The competition experience is so much greater on all scales than simple rallys or funflys, the shared experiences are much deeper and so are the friendships you develop. Enjoy ... and let the games begin!!!

[Kevin McGrath]

What they all said!
There is nothing that will improve your flying faster than competition of any sort.
If you feel stressed at a contest its because you are taking the competition too seriuosly.
I have flown scale,pattern at the zone and nats level and pylon and its a lot of fun.
I am going to fly scale and SA next summer and am really looking forward to it.

[TLyttle]

Doesn't matter what you guys say, competition is NOT for everyone, and events aren't the only place to learn all the nuances of building and flying. I have learned far more from non-competitors, simply because the competitor is way too focussed on that one aspect of the hobby. One of the best freeflighters I EVER met was also a very innovative and talented control liner and r/cer, but avoided competition like the plague. The longer I was involved in competition the more I understood why.

One more time, guys, this is my opinion, take it or leave it... :P

[Guest]

Originally Posted by TLyttle

I have learned far more from non-competitors, simply because the competitor is way too focussed on that one aspect of the hobby.

This doesnt make any sense? How can you have less knowledge by being focused on a specific area of competition?