I am just starting to get interested in flying pattern and I have been thinking about building one of the Bridi designs which could be used in the lower classes of the current AMA pattern or possibly, in SPA competition as well. Based on what I have read, it seems that the SPA's approach to competition is to make it low key and fun, something which I find very appealing. After all, it is a hobby and it is meant to be fun. The problem is, I only fly electric. I can understand the desire to keep the planes as close as possible to their original designs, but at the end of the day, the plane does not care whether it is an I.C. engine or electric motor spinning the prop. It seems to me that rather than excluding electrics, they should subject to additional rules regarding power. If the intent is really to be as faithful as possible to the original designs and how the planes were flown back in the day, should modern radios be allowed? After all, back in the 70's and earlier I doubt that any radios had dual rates, expo and mixes....

There are not many opportunities to compete in pattern, so please don't close the door on us...

Teo