There are a lot of reasons why pattern flying is declining, take our club for an example. We have about 100 members, out of which I would say only 35 to 40 of them actual flies if that many. And out of that number, only 20 to 25 of them flies on a regular basis, and most of them are between the ages of 45 to 55. Their main goal is to go out to the field on the weekends to socialize with fellow members, put in a few flights in between and will be more than happy to take their planes home in one piece. As far as competition goes, not their cup of tea. Also, to most of them, these are their prime years in money making so they can ensure a comfortable living for their family in the future, going to contest on the weekends does not appeal to them.

As much as cost is an issue, I don't think its the main deterrent. There were a few at our club who expressed slight interest, and some of them used to race full size sail boats, or have participated in other competitive sports in their younger age. We constantly remind them that they can use their current airplane to participate at the Sportsman level, they all came back with the same answer - been there, done that.

Another issue is, although we have new members every year, but none of them are in their 20s. Kids nowadays have way too many avenue for channelling their interest, and most of them wants instant gratification. Unfortunately, spending time practicing to better their flying skill is not one of them. Once in great while, you'll see a father and son joining the club. But, as soon as the father lost interest, the son disappears as well.

However, eventhough we are battling an uphill battle, don't despair. Keep making yourself availabe to your local club member, even if you can just recruit one new pattern pilot a year, you have accomplish a lot.

Adrian