Once again Buckminster GC opened their arms and made the Aerobatic Glider community welcome for the ‘Open’ Championship, a contest in which the winner is the highest percentage scorer from any class. With just a week to go there was some talk of abandoning the competition on account of lack of interest. However at the last minute there was a rush of enthusiasm and we ended up with twelve contestants across all five classes. We welcomed three new competitors, Derek Copeland from Lasham, Richard Crockett, CFI at Booker and Alan Munroe, Buckminster GC Safety Officer (and ex Javelin and Phantom pilot, for anyone who is interested!). Alan joined up at the eleventh hour after being swept up in the excitement of it all on the last practice day – and how well he did with a respectable 75% and 8th place.

Day 1 started slowly as we waited for the popping Cu’s to get up to 4000’. Eventually at about lunchtime we were able to get going and, in a fairly stiff breeze, managed to get program 1 completed by teatime. This competition requires each pilot to complete 2 unknown programs, the first of which they have only a matter of a couple of hours to learn. Given the strength of the wind – 20kts gusting 25kts, the results were both remarkable and encouraging. (see below).

With a good forecast for the next day it was decided to quit while we were ahead and retire to the clubhouse for a (small) drink and standard, though epic, fish and chip dinner prepared by the ever attentive Barry and his catering team.

Day 2 started with an early briefing at 0830 and a first launch at 0945. Unknown 2 was challenging, particularly for the two unlimited pilots. Unusually we were halfway through the flying list before we saw our first ‘zero’. With the Cu’s starting to pop in the distance the frequency of launches was increased and the judges did a great job to keep their wits about them until completion at about 1230. John Sentence, stalwart of the BGC, presented the prizes and this ceremony was followed by one of Barry’s now famous buffets. After this those still standing were able to get home to their families to enjoy the rest of the bank holiday weekend.

The standard of flying was extremely high and the scores reflect that with ¾ of the field achieving well above 70%. Clearly Glider Aerobatic competitions have come of age and now with four competitions a year it’s ‘onward and upward’.

Many thanks to the three judges, Chris, Andy and Charles, and to the adept scorer Cindy. Also to all at Buckminster GC for their continued support and hospitality.