CULLMAN "TRADITIONAL" OPENER

 April 19, 2009...Cloudy to partly cloudy with Southerly winds 5 to 15 MPH on April 18 allowed an "on time" start for the annual Cullman contest and completion of 4 rounds for all classes except Senior Expert whose competitors opted to "call" after 3 complete rounds.  

Most notable difference in this years contest and those in previous years was the folks doing the judging chores.  As a result of the two "judging clinics" and the certification of so many of our pilots as qualified "judges", many pilots did double-duty and spread the judging chores to many who had not previously felt they were qualified for accurate judging.  This feature alone proved to be "worth it's salt" in making more folks contest-active in all facets of a good contest.  

CD Steve Byrum, without a doubt, our most experienced contest director, had much capable help .  Mr. Phil Stults, who not only entered scores in the computerized program but "ran" them from the flight line to the neat "scorers tent" that Steve sets up and makes available just adjacent to the PA and scoreboard covered area near the flight line.  Marilyn Lutzsky did the dependable job of registration, raffle ticket sales, etc. we've grown to expect of her annually. Ed Terry and Lavell Thrasher manned the concession on Saturday and cooked the burgers and hotdogs, served the drinks, deserts, etc.  Sid Austin did field prep.   Only one mishap I am aware of, on Saturday morning prior to the Pilots Briefing, Mike Robinson's DADDY-RABBIT blended in with the cloudy sky on approach and disappeared from Mike's vision until it smashed into mother earth.  Some damage, enough to stimulate Mike to serve as Judge, good Sec/Treas and generally lend an appreciated hand with contest chores and to remember to bring his "back-up" in the future.  Several airplanes were offered Mike, but he opted to just "work this meet" and get ready for competing in the next one.  

A number of pilots have "moved up" this season and as a result 12 pilots sought the awards in Sportsman class, 13 in Novice, and 3 each in Expert and Senior Expert.  Much more equitable numbers in the classes than the past two seasons which have really been "Novice heavy".  

Fellowship and good eating lasted til late in the evening on Saturday night at the Branding- Iron, notable steak restaurant near Cullman.  

Anthony Sweeney, entered his 1st SPA contest.  Anthony was an attendee to the Judging Clinic in Prattville and exercised our new "inclusion" of "fy what you brung" airplanes for a "certificate of participation".  He flew his VENUS ARF 40 to what would have placed him
3rd in the NOVICE class (had he flown an SPA approved design).  Anthony, a veteran F-15 fighter pilot for the U.S. Military (and has seen combat with enemies)....said, "I have had missles longer than telephone poles fired at me before, but NEVER have I been so nervous flying the real jets as I was flying this model in front of judges".  Anthony is in the process of obtaining an SPA approved model in short time.  It is a joy to have newcomers like him join our ranks.  

One of the highlights of attending the "first" contest of a season is ones' initial viewing of many winter-projects.  During an under-the-tent bull-session, several remarked, "I can't recall ever seeing this many GOOD-LOOKING SPA airplanes this early in a season"!  

Cullman Aeromodelers raffled a World Models A6 INTRUDER ARF airplane which is going to North Carolina with Mr. Bob Permenter.    Rainshowers Sunday morning influenced a "called" pilots meeting to determine to call the event a "contest" and proceed with the awards ceremony, etc on Sunday about mid-morning.   CULLMAN AEROMODELERS....thanks for a delightful contest it was a joy coming to:

Grateful for the traditional CULLMAN fellowship, fun and sportsmanship!

Bruce Underwood, President, Senior Pattern Association