I'd love to hear your input on making a suggestion to the AMA regarding a new category of pattern/AA. This new category would limit the size up to .60 sized planes or smaller. With the influx of f3a capable small .30-.60 sized airframes(Venus, Majestic, Tracer, Aresti, etc), I think it would be a very neat and affordable concept. In this months Model Avation magazine RC Aerobatics column, they put a Kyosho Majestic through F3a schedules. It does have the ability to go up into the advanced level with the right pilot. If this class could catch on, you could put a pair of matched, competitive .40 sized models in the air (primary and backup planes) for less than the cost of one pattern airframe/motor. More importantly, everyone would be on a relatively level playing field. I'd love to give pattern a competitive go, but I know I'd be seriously outclassed by far superior hardware. I understand the argument that a good pilot with an average plane will do better than a poor pilot with a great plane, but when you have guys showing up with Focus, Hydeaways, Sequels, etc for Sportsman, its a more than a little intimidating.
I also can't convince the chief financial officer of the household that this $2000.00 plane/ engine/servo combo is going to fly soooo much better than the plane I currently have. She keeps muttering something about a college education for our daughter being more important than a new plane (the kid's smart enough to get a scholarship, whats that woman thinking???? ). LOOLOL

This concept would be a great way to get alot more sport fliers to make the jump into pattern/competiton, without a major expense, all by using equipment they already have and fly regularly.


Feel free to offer any positive or negative feedback on this suggestion, I'm open to anything.

Steve