Free Flight: Old-Timers
Clarence Haught
Rubber Power
Rubber power seems to be making a strong comeback. Entry in all classes is growing larger. In general Free Flight meets, interest in Wakefield, Mulvihill, Coupe d'Hiver, and P-30 shows healthy growth. Part of this is due to the better quality of rubber now generally available—even though the price (around $13 per pound on the average) is fairly high.
Other factors contributing to the resurgence:
- The challenge of putting up a max with a well-thought-out model and a properly matched propeller-rubber combination.
- The preparation ritual: putting the model in the stooge; preparing the motor; using the winding tube to guard against blown motors; packing in the turns; removing the winding tube; hooking up the prop.
This sequence tends to calm tension and eliminate hasty mistakes.
In Old-Timers we currently fly only two classes of rubber in the SAM basic events: Cabin and Stick (Central Indiana Aeromodelers).
Small Rubber Events Proposal
Bob Larsh (Central Indiana Aeromodelers, 45 S. Whitcomb Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46241) has prepared a proposal to add two new events to the basic rules:
- Small Rubber Stick
- Small Rubber Cabin
Excerpt from Bob’s proposal:
"It is proposed that Small Rubber Stick and Small Rubber Cabin be adopted by SAM and made basic events. These are basically the Class C models which have a maximum wing area of 140 sq. in., and were flown before WWII as a separate class from the much larger Wakefield and Class D and E models. The prewar magazines often refer to the Class C as being their 'bread-and-butter' events at contests.
"For the most part, SAM has neglected the rubber fliers down through the years and presently offers only two rubber classes in the lineup of basic events, while gas now has eight.
"The basis and justification for presenting this proposal is that many of the SAM rubber fliers would like to build, fly, and compete with the smaller-size models, as they do not require as much transportation room and are easier, quicker, and much cheaper to build, requiring less materials and rubber. As the situation is now, modelers have to compete with large models if they want to be competitive. Another side benefit to having small models separate is that it will make many Old-Timer designs available that were not previously considered because of the size. 'New' eligible designs have always been a shot in the arm for SAM.
"It might be argued that we have too many events now, but this is due to the 'special' events that are added to the Champs based on the local interests and lobbies. Class C Rubber reflects the Old-Timers event as it was flown in the old days we are trying to emulate and preserve. These are the only models that should be considered for basic event status.
"It is felt that the addition of this event is long overdue and will strengthen the organization. Also, the fact that good, dependable rubber is readily available once again encourages the building and flying of this type of model. All support for this proposal is welcome."
Competition
While many fliers never enter a contest—sometimes because they dislike competitive pressure—these individuals may be missing out on a great deal of enjoyment. Yes, contests can be nerve-wracking, but most of us can handle a little nervousness and still have fun.
I only made it to three contests this season, and at each one I saw several spectators who had quality models at home that fit the contest categories. Why not bring those models out and get in on the fun? Most entry fees are low.
Found and Lost
A model was found near the site of the La Junta SAM Champs. The only identifying mark is the number A9663 on the model. AMA has no record of this number.
To claim the model, identify it to: Nels C. Larsen, Jr. 601 Elm St. La Junta, CO 81050
Contact
Clarence Haught 3226 Honeysuckle Dr. Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
