ORIGINAL: Strat2003
Something we've done that seems to help participation is to start timing events like loops and rolls after the contestant gets to a comfortable altitude. They decide when to begin and time starts when the first maneuver starts. It frees the less experienced guys from the need to do things down low as they would need to if we timed from takeoff.
Also, we've learned not to include engine starting in timed events. The rush makes it just a little dangerous. If you let everybody get started and adjusted it cuts down on taking off too lean or with the Ni-Starter still attached.
So, add an element that has nothing to do with flying and will increase times...One I saw was take-off, loop, roll, loop, land, eat 3 crackers. When you can whistle (after the crackers have been thoroughly chewed), time stops. No water allowed between take-off and whistle...