You know what I mean

Many years ago, Jürg Schmitter, then president of the SMV, raised the question of whether boundless perfectionism might ultimately be detrimental to model aviation. I remember well how some top pilots quickly became frustrated. When I look at competitive aerobatic models, for example, there’s no sugarcoating such critical questions. Can parents simply invest a few thousand francs in their aerobatic-talented daughters or sons? Or take competitive gliding, where good models can easily cost two thousand francs or more. Do simpler and cheaper models even stand a chance at major or even international events? At world championships—whether in aerobatics or electric/glider flight—I always see only the best and most expensive “war machines,” even among the juniors. I have to admit that this makes me feel a bit uneasy. Representatives from poorer countries are rarely seen at such events. In other words: Unfortunately, I don’t see a way out of this downward spiral. Certainly, there are modest counter-trends, such as all the foam models or the RES competition classes (gliders without ailerons). Nevertheless, anyone who wants to rise to the top in this sport has to adapt. One increasingly popular option remains: I’m referring to the range of new wooden model kits—or just frame kits. Anyone who takes on such a project has some control, within limits, over the financial outlay. Often, more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better. I wish you many wonderful and relaxing hours in your hobby room, happy holidays, and good luck in the new year.

Emil Ch. Giezendanner

redaktion@modellflugsport.ch