First Styro Cup Hosted by SwissAkro Connection

Here, in the Lucerne municipality not far from Lake Sempach, a group of men operates their model airfield under the name IG Mooshof. Today, they don’t want to keep it just among themselves; they’ve invited others to a flying competition. Eligible for this competition, organized and sponsored by the SAC, are model airplane pilots flying a styrofoam motor glider that costs no more than CHF 300–350 and has a wingspan of no more than 3 meters. Seventeen pilots from all over Switzerland have registered.

Model aircraft flying isn’t just a great hobby; it’s also a way to unwind from the daily grind and a foundation for countless friendships. Among the pilots who regularly meet through the SAC, the idea has taken root that their focus shouldn’t be limited to the flying achievements of a few top pilots; rather, they also want to inspire young and new aviation enthusiasts to take up this hobby. Getting started should be as easy as possible, and the event should be feasible even for small flying groups. The short and clear rules of the Styro-Cup (www.swiss-acro.ch) allow for a maximum of 25 active pilots per event. The simple flight maneuvers guarantee an exciting and entertaining program.

Starting at 9 a.m., the guest pilots begin arriving one by one. After the briefing, practice begins. Pilots take their places in the aircraft park and warm up their batteries. Following the pilots’ briefing, practice can begin on the competition course. Four rounds of flying will then take place. After the first run, in runs 2–4, several planes are launched at the same interval. This saves time and requires the pilots to coordinate optimally and act reliably while maintaining maximum flexibility. These runs are arguably among the most beautiful and entertaining moments of the event.

In addition to the flying activities, there’s also plenty of time for a grilled bratwurst, coffee and cake, and—above all—lots of conversations about flying, model building, and everything under the sun. Occasionally, there’s even a bit of model-flyer slang thrown into the mix. However, without exception, all participants deny this with a wink. With the final group photo, numb fingers, and cold toes and noses, everyone was actually able to take their foam planes home more or less in one piece. SAC and IC Mooshof can look back with satisfaction and pride on a successful air show.

Styro-Cups aren’t just coming to Mooshof in the near future. Another event is already planned for December 2021 at a model flying club.

The Styro-Cup is the best example of how model flying can be incredibly fun even in cold temperatures and under a gray blanket of fog.