I spent my entire first year flying my trainer. That winter, I built my .46 size p51D, and maidened it with the help of my instructor in late may that spring. For a few weeks, I'd go out with both, warm up on the trainer, then fly the 'stang a time or 2.

Finally began to get comfy with the stang, and began leaving the trainer home. Flew the mustang exclusively for about 3 weeks. Then, in anticipation of a club hosted Fun Fly (GAFF), I brought out the trainer again. Good plane for balloon chase I figured.

I banded on the wing and fired up the brave little LA25. Out to the flight line, and up she went. I couldn't stop grinning. What fun! It was like an old friend back from away. I finally saw the fun in it.

It took my second plane to make me appreciate my first. Rarely after that was the trainer left home. This year, it's still my most flown plane. Recently been exploring the finer points of vertical snap rolls evolving to spins. Nice and violent!

I love the looks of the rascal. The elliptical wing just does it for me. Can't compare their flight, but I'd expect the rascal to be a bit more versatile. Old school looks beg for a 4 stroke.... Damn, gotta go, wallet's getting scared....

J