The Dan Smith Trophy - 2011

CD's Report

The 15th annual Dan Smith Memorial Aerobatic Competition was held at London Gliding Club, Dunstable on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd April. It consisted as usual of 2 rounds - a Sports Known sequence and a Sports Unknown sequence - and attracted 9 competitors. What this event lacks in size is easily compensated for by its friendly atmosphere, bonhomie and good humour amongst both competitors, officials and club members alike, which always make the periods of un-flyable weather more pleasant, as does the copious quantity of tea consumed in The Club Restaurant by both anxious entrants and frustrated officials. These periods of inactivity do, at least, allow aerobatic glider pilots to catch up with each other, The Dan Smith being the first gliding event in the aerobatic season.

The first briefing was held early on Saturday morning in anticipation of some flyable weather once lower cloud had dispersed. The first two launches proved premature, with both Mark Erlund and Maz Makari having to abort due to lingering cloud between 3,500 and 4,000 feet. Very soon afterwards however the cloud-base rose, and at 3.00 pm the competition started in earnest. By 6.00pm the Known Sequence had been flown by all competitors, the gliders were put away and everybody convened in The Club Restaurant for a hearty meal provided by the caterers. For some it was an early night prior to an early start, as weather conditions were forecast to be good early on Sunday but deteriorating around lunchtime.

The first Sunday competitor flew in perfect conditions at 9.30 am., but sparse, low cloud began to form, threatening the completion of the event. Fortunately all competitors were able to fly the sequence, except for Mark Erlund who was forced to withdraw after the first day due to illness. The competition was completed by a presentation in the Club House, the medals and trophy being presented by Angela Bazylensko (née Smith) - the daughter of Dan Smith himself who, with her brother Graham and her father, flew for many years at Dunstable.

Being the highest placed Sports Pilot as well as the overall winner, The Dan Smith Memorial Trophy was awarded to Richard Brown.

Mike Barrowman
Contest Director