ORIGINAL: Roary m
I can't remember too well now where I read it but some time back either M.A.N. or Model Aviation was a write up on the nature of pattern color schemes. At it turned out, white dominate schemes with color trim accents familiar to the pilot for orientation were harder for the judges to see, consequently they were scored higher. Darker main colors such as black with contrast trim features were downgraded more since judges could sight on the position of the ship easier.
Roary m
That article would be interesting to read again and compare with the situation now.
In the old classics (0 – 1963) controllability and aerodynamics were most important.
(A lot of Taurusses did fly with nearly the same scheme, see Genk 1963 World champs)
I think that MAN article is of the period the proportional radio exists for several years and maybe also low wingers, retracts etc. were commonly used.
The picture, a compilation of places 1, 2 and 3 in 1963, Genk Belgium.
Cees