is there any reason why i couldn't enter say the sportman class with something like a baby boomerang

If you are thinking of entering a comp in the UK you would be best posing your question over on the GBR/CAA forum - [link]http://www.gbrcaa.org/smf/index.php[/link]

As long as its under 7kg I don't think there will be a problem.

Regards,

Matt

a what to the what now?

I know there's a guy who has a turboprop abbra.

Is the sportsman class in the UK flown according to the FAI rules?
If so, then the weight limit is 5 kg without fuel.

Magne

I would also be concerned about presentation. Turbines are fast-movers which is not good and you'd need to be able to fly it precisely AND keep the speed down AND stay n the box. Flown at speed the manuevers would be rushed and turbine lag will make getting thrust on and off at the right points very difficult.

If you don't have anything else I guess it's OK assuming UK rules allow any airframe in the lowest class but I think that you'd be much better off with a Focus or other pattern type plane.

The GBR/CAA encourages people to have go with what ever model they have in sportsman (now called clubman) class so is not run to full FAI rules. I would recommend contacting the CD prior to entering a comp to check local rules don't prohibit turbines etc..

As I suggested post the same question on the GBR/CAA forum to get some more opinions.

Regards,

Matt

cheers for the info guys. i don't think speed would be an issue as some models can be flown incredibly slow. turbine lag is a slight issue but its more about the taking part than winning.

possibly a turoprop wit constant speed an variable pitch to get around lag? I never have played with any of these types but seems logical

I had kicked around trying this flying a turbine in pattern, just for fun more than trying to be competitive. Of course, you'll probably get nailed with low scores for snap roll and stall turn maneuvers. And as a previous poster mentioned, weight might be an issue. I think it would be fun though, and I'm sure the judges would appreciate somebody trying something different... Unfortunately, that is not a gradeable maneuver!

There was a movement last year to start a "jet specific pattern class" here in the states.

A few of us got REALLY intrested, so much so, we started putting together our efforts for the season, but the movement died off before we finished the jets. A real shame, as i was really looking forward to it.

the problem i have got is with weight. has to be under 14lb but the model i was gonna use is about 15lb dry and 18lb fuelled. gonna try and trim some weight off but think it needs a new model really

no, it is not. The rules are relaxed for the domestic comps with no measuring of weighing.
nothing over 7kg though.

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http://www.ballisticpattern.com/
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(hehehe)