8th International Scale Helicopter Championship 2008, Tursko, CZ

For the eighth consecutive year, the International Scale Helicopter Championship took place in Tursko, near Prague, in the Czech Republic. Pilots from Switzerland were also among the participants.

This year’s Scale Championship was once again held at the MS Composit company’s own airfield. The weather featured cloudy skies but no rain, and

Wind. But at 18°, it was a bit too cool for this time of year. Thanks to the engines. A total of 8 pilots turned out for this year’s performance competition in Tusko. Hugo Markes and Eric Ribak represented Switzerland. The lineup of models had changed since last year. Here, too, small and medium-sized helicopters have become the norm. The construction of these models was

whereas the others were built only in the semi-scale style. The models had rotor diameters ranging from 35 cm to 205 cm. They were powered by electric motors, hot-wire ignition motors, and turbines. After the build evaluation, a total of three flight rounds were held. The competition went

without incident this year. Everyone was able to take their models home safely. Unfortunately, the number of participants had inexplicably decreased compared to last year. I’d like to take this opportunity to promote this event. Our Czech colleagues are very dedicated and hospitable. The atmosphere was excellent, and the participants enjoyed a competition day free of stress and time pressure. As in the previous year, Hugo Markes impressed with his Ecureuil AS350 B2

in both the build and flight categories. Another victory next year would mark his first “hat trick.” See the table for additional rankings. We’re already looking forward to this event and hope for a large turnout.

Eric Ribak