RE: This DNU has "GOT TO GO"
I sure wish I could be there to help figure out the problem. For me its always something simple that requires a resounding forehead slap accompanied by, "duh." Like one of my favorites is crossing the pressure and pickup lines. Or making the pickup line too long so that sometimes it hangs up.
As for launch techniques, I totally agree with everybody who said just hold it up and give it a firm toss toward the horizon - but not too hard. I don't know how many times I've seen people run a few steps, stop dead, and heave the model into the ground. Oh wait, that was witnesses describing my hand-launch technique. Oh fellows, would any of youse-all like me to launch for you at Rog's next do?