They say that Rome wasn’t built in a day and that getting the RV Event off the ground wouldn’t be easy, but we gave it a go.

The objective was that as an aerobatic aircraft, specifically the RV4, RV6, RV7 and RV8 were the most common aerobatic models on the British register; some 300 out of around 1000 aircraft in total. Surely we could attract more than Neil Spooner and his fine looking mount into the Association?

After mailshots, emailers, phone calls and so on, we had around fifteen owner / pilots of aerobatic models interested in taking part; very encouraging. As we got closer to the 20th August, we lost some pilots to unfavourable rostering, poor weather and getting signed off, technical problems including engines cutting out now and then, oil being jettisoned and so it goes. Apart from all that, the forecast for the 20th was “blowing a hooley” so we pulled it and went for the Sunday which unfortunately cost us a couple more casualties (metaphorically speaking)

The 21st came, clouds looked ominous and we had lost another two participants due to other commitments. The plans of mice and men!

We were not running a competition, we were running an event and an event that was all about improving the RV owner as an aerobatic pilot, having banter and talking aeroplanes. We had six diehard, keen entrants plus support from a number of other RV owners and friends of the BAeA to whom we are extremely grateful.

The sun broke through, the clouds parted, the BBQ on gas mark 5, and all participants had their flights critiqued by our judges and their individual performances fed back. I stress, this was no competition but you could tell all wanted to do well and I have to say there was some extremely good flying was demonstrated by all.

We created an RV specific sequence. A sequence that tested the pilots but was very much RV orientated; just about all positive G and nothing that could get the speed building up rapidly and it worked fine thanks to David Thompson.

All in all it was a great day and hopefully the first of many special events in the future. Our thanks to John Michie, Pete Pengelly, Martin Luton, James Astor, Richard Welch and our host and fellow RV owner Mark Jefferies, who showed everybody he’s still got it.  Also many thanks to Simon Johnson, Steve Evans our Chief Judge, Karen Reidl, Emily and Mike Collett and last but not least our boss Steve Todd for their invaluable input.

Some of the feedback so far:

“Good to meet you and thanks so much for organising the RV day, great fun and I hope it happens again.” (James Astor)

“I just wanted to say a massive thank you for a great event yesterday. You can absolutely count on me to be an enthusiastic participant in the future events, I reckon six per year would be about right! I would also favour a format of a new sequence each time, published in advance. That way we get to learn something new each time, but have the opportunity to practice in advance. “

“I found the atmosphere struck just the right balance between being well organised, and being great fun for us Vans drivers. I was there because I wanted to compete on an even playing field against others in machinery similar to my own, however others attended because they knew that developing their aerobatics was a key part of developing themselves as pilots. That said, I think every one of us loved it. I'm really looking forward to future events and I firmly believe there is a bright future for Vans aerobatics in the hands of the British Aerobatics Association.” (Martin Luton)

“It was obvious that you had put a lot of time and effort into making Sunday's "Event" such an enjoyable and worthwhile day. Would you pass on my thanks to your band of helpers and associates. And thank you for providing a late breakfast and then lunch, I'm sure I must owe you for that.

The atmosphere was relaxed, welcoming, and informative, and I learnt a lot. You may have been disappointed by the small field, unfortunately reduced on Sunday, but it was the first attempt and hopefully will improve. I shall put something on the RV Squadron to encourage others.” (John Michie)

It was certificates all round and home in time for tea and crumpets.

Phil Massetti
Event Director