3 years ago I was out of the hobby for about 11 years. I came from a heavy pattern background flying Advanced and Expert Classes. Got burnt out, because it became more like work instead of fun, and if I didn't do well in competition, it was definitely no fun. When I was cleaning out my attic during a move, I got all my RC stuff down and ALMOST threw it all away, until I found my son's Trainer which was fully assembled and ready to fly (after new batteries and tuning), but never flown. I brought it out to a local club and saw somebody 3D'in a 30% extra. When I saw that, my mouth started drooling and my thumbs started twitching. (Like it used to do eleven years earlier). Now after 3D training on the Funatanas (all of them), EF Yaks, H9 Extra 260, 81" Velox, 85" QQ yak...............I AM HOOKED. More now, than I ever was when I was flying pattern. I not saying I am like QQS, Jason Shulman, or Smokin Joe McBride, but I have gotten real good w/ the whole 3D routine, ON THE DECK. The Pucker Factor is still there, but I am comfortable touching the tail in an elevator, hover, or pogo's. I guess what I am trying to say is, if it weren't for the fact that I could "Fly beyond the stall", I would not OBSESSED like I am now. In fact, somedays it is all I think about. Now I am about to maidien my 1st 35% aircraft (AW Extra 260), and inspiring the younger pilots at our field. 3D flying ROCKS! Most fun with your clothes on!

My definition of 3D Flying is maiking an airplane to fly beyond its original design at slow speeds, utilizing thrust for full control to move the airplane around without the use of lift from the wings.

my 2 cents
Rennie