F3C Helicopter in Pfäffikon

Following the success of 2005, the F3C regional competition was held again this year. To ensure a sufficient number of participants, we combined the event with the third round of the Swiss Cup—and with great success! There were 23 participants on the starting list: 12 in the Promotion class and 11 in the Newcomers class. Unfortunately, Region 6 was completely absent this time; in the past, we had been able to hold this event with Regions 5 and 6. On the other hand, participants from French-speaking Switzerland even traveled to the event as part of the Swiss Cup.

On September 30, 2006, the MG RC-Heli-Freudwil hosted the event on the grounds of MG-Pfäffikon ZH. Flying took place according to the Newcomer and Promotion programs valid for the Swiss Cup. More information can be viewed and downloaded at http://www.modellflug.ch/f3c/. At approximately 8:45 a.m., Hugo Markes, president of MG RC-Heli-Freudwil—also known as the owner of Hobby-Modellsport Pfäffikon—welcomed the numerous participants and guests. After introducing the judges—Eric Ribak, Hansruedi Lüthi, and Hansruedi Schneebeli—as well as announcing the jury and sharing my brief remarks on today’s competition, Hugo got right to work. The newcomers, in particular, were full of enthusiasm and competitive spirit; under his guidance, they showed significant improvement from round to round compared to 2005. We had a different field of participants at the start in the Promotion class. Notable pilots such as Remo Hürlimann, Theo, and Martin Fäh chose not to participate, as they are already competing in the FAI class. By lunchtime, one round had been flown in both categories. Fortunately, the weather had taken a turn for the better after heavy rain in the morning had caused some uncertainty. Drinks, cake, coffee, and the famous “sausages” were available on the field, providing refreshments for the large number of participants and spectators in attendance. Given the large number of participants, we on the competition committee decided to skip a third round during the lunch break. Although aiming for a “best three” score is desirable, we also need to take into account the “fun” factor and the need to finish early. Many model aviators are happy to have Saturday evening to themselves again.

Lukas Riva was the highlight of the lunch break. With his two T-REX electric helicopters—sizes 450 and 600—he thrilled participants and spectators alike with his 3D stunts. For many, it was a feast for the eyes, and he earned great respect for his controlled, extremely difficult, and perfectly executed maneuvers. A promising model helicopter pilot is certainly emerging here, though I wonder if he’ll eventually have to commit to one of the FAI or 3D classes?

After two rounds, the event concluded around 4:30 p.m. with the announcement of the rankings. Medals were awarded to the top three pilots in the region in the Promotion and Newcomer classes. With eight Newcomer pilots and five in the Promotion class, we achieved a level of success in Region 5 that hadn’t been seen in a long time. Hopefully, this trend will continue, shift toward the Promotion class, and be “replenished” among the Newcomers? That would ensure the long-needed supply of young talent. A huge thank you goes to Hugo Markes—his dedication and promotional efforts contributed greatly to the success of the region and this event. In addition, together with the MG RC Heli-Club Freudwil and yours truly, he served as the organizer for this event. With minimal effort, he managed to make the day a success to the satisfaction of everyone involved.

Everyone left the model airfield in Pfäffikon, ZH, with smiles on their faces—last of all, the organizer and the staff who still had to clean up. They deserve special thanks, as does the Pfäffikon ZH Model Flying Club, which made its beautiful airfield available. And so the 2006 F3C Regional Competition came to a successful close, and I hope there is enough enthusiasm to find another organizer for next year. I highly recommend combining it with the Swiss Cup. Anyone interested can find more information online (see link above). As the coordinator for Region 5, I am also happy to assist with organizing the competition schedule and the scoring.

Walter Heller,
MG-Rapperswil-Jona