Rubber-powered model aircraft (F1B) in Breitenbach

Organization: MG Laufen

MG Laufen, led by Chairman Heinz Jeger, demonstrated that it’s possible to organize a flawless competition even with limited resources. What does it take? Two warning signs on the road to indicate that something is happening here. Three pairs of timekeepers; a jury; and a competition director. Of course, participants don’t see the work that went into it beforehand—such as obtaining permission to use the land, putting out calls for entries, and setting up barriers. A sausage and beverage stand also ensured that everyone was well fed and hydrated. As for the competition itself: Under a slightly cloudy sky, the event got underway at 10 a.m. We were most pleased by the number of participants—16—a figure not seen in years. Will we manage to reach 20 next year? With today’s much simpler models, some F1A pilots have also learned the “Gümmeln” technique (see MFS 4/81). Overall, the level of performance was high, so that even 10th place was enough to meet the 80% World Championship qualifying threshold. I’d like to mention here that every participant in the National Championship is later eligible to compete in the World Championship qualifier. The challenge trophy, donated by the AeCS, will be awarded for the 40th time next year—it could go down in history.

W. Heise