Classic Aeroplane Racing — Overview

Our goal is to maintain the “spirit of the era” and keep it a gentlemen’s race.  We have adopted a handicap system for the open class racing.  A “speed index” has been developed by the race committee.  It will help place more emphasis on pilot skill and variables other than sheer horsepower and speed.  We are encouraging the building and flying of aircraft from all pre-war years.  This handicap system will keep a degree of fairness and fun for all pilots and all aeroplane styles.

Open Class aeroplane requirements

• Models must be of aircraft that were built and flown prior to 1914.  Documentation is required.

• The scale must be 1/4. Colors should follow the original as close as possible.  Flight controls shall be like the original.  If the original had wing warping, so shall the model.  A 1/4 size pilot figure must be in the model.

• A three view and photo of the original aircraft are required.

• All models must use traditional wood and fabric in their construction.  No foam, fiberglass, cardboard, or plastics may be used in the overall structure.  “Traditional” implies the use of materials similar to the original as close as possible.  No film coverings, fiberglass fuselages, or foam core wings will be allowed

• Models must be completed.  No outstanding work should appear necessary.

• There is no “builder of the model” rule.  Team entries are allowed.

Antic Class

• Proctor “Antics” of all sizes, whether scratch built or kit built, are eligible.

• Monoplanes, bipes, parasol, and kit bashed models are all qualified for entry.

• No handicap system will be used.

• There are no requirements on finishing, covering methods and motor size.

Aeroplanes race one at a time “against the clock”.  The sequence of aeroplanes in the first heat will be by drawing.  This sequence will remain throughout the balance of all heat races.  The aeroplane, with motor running, will be positioned at a designated starting point on the runway.  A cannon start will signal the take-off and start of the timer clocks.  (Note: directions are subject to wind conditions.)  The pylon placement shall be approximately 500 feet apart.  Wind and weather conditions shall dictate particulars at the time of racing

The first turn will begin shortly after take off with the first lap being an oval around the prescribed pylons.  Pylons will have lights that indicate when a pylon has been cleared.  Each pilot must have a caller.  (Note: directions are subject to wind conditions.)

As the second pylon is rounded in lap one, the pilot may begin setting up for lap two.  Lap two, three, and part of four will follow a figure eight pattern as outlined.

As lap four is completed, the timer will stop when the aeroplane crosses the finish line.  Landing procedure will begin at once, with a go around in a normal pattern.  Landing will be required between runway markers to avoid a 5 second penalty.  A penalty of 10 seconds will be added to the total for cutting a pylon.  Two races will be run in Saturday and one on Sunday.  Aeroplanes must race in all three races over the course of the two days to qualify.  A total of the two fastest heats will be used to establish the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers.

Awards

• Awards will be given to first, second, and third place race aeroplanes in each of the classes.

• Pilot choice awards for Most Realistic Flying, Best Static Display, Most Outstanding WWI model, and Best Vintage Model

• All registered pilots will have a chance at winning some great door prizes.  Northwest RC Aviators gave away almost $2,000 worth of door prizes in 2003.  We make it worth your while to attend!