2009 BMFA Nationals (F3F)
9 - 10 August 2009
Joel West launches the Skorpion of Graham Reed
Reduced but redeemed
Short term weather forecasts are so good these days that pilots are increasingly crying off events if the wind doesn't look like playing ball. Such was the situation in the Nationals this year, with a few of the top names missing.
However those who came were rewarded with sunshine, good sport flying (at least for those who brought some lightweight toys), and - eventually - a successful competition.
Saturday
Saturday was almost flat calm as had been expected. Not to worry - just as in 2006, a great evening was spent at Birling Gap, enjoying the sunshine, soaring off the cliffs, and wondering how long it will be before Birling Gap disappears into the English Channel.
Sunday
By contrast, several rounds were flown on Sunday at Butts Lane, though the wind played an awkward game of hide and seek as it meandered up the hill. By the time it got to the top, it was just about legal for running a competition, which of course is is all that mattered. There was some thermal activity too, and all in all it was quite a 'technical' event.
Mike Evans made full use of his chances with some consistent flying to become BMFA national champion. Runner-up was local pilot Gary Harrison, with myself in third place.
Thanks to CD Julian Perrot, John Phillips, Gary Harrison, Jim Taylor and the rest of the ESSA crew for a successful comp and great weekend.
Results
1 M Evans 6882.50 2 G Harrison 6603.89 3 M Shellim 6545.01 4 P Gunning 6444.50 5 J Phillips 6417.57 6 J Taylor 6408.94 7 T MacPherson 6348.69 8 J Perrott 6289.32 9 J West 6264.73 10 G Reed 6257.20 11 V Eldridge 6220.68 12 T Robertson 6024.43 13 T Noble 2626.89 14 M Lucas 717.14
Photos
Saturday/Sunday
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
After hours
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |