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Scores                                               Photos

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The Pilots
L-R: Tim Reed, Ken Knotts, Wes Lewis, Pat Ensign, Danny Jackson, Todd Blose & Chuck Lee

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2022 Texas Wings SPA West Opener Report

SPA West Blows into TX Wings for Season Opener

 The SPA West season opener was held at the Texas Wings field on April 25. The day dawned cloudy so the morning sun was not a problem. As anyone living in Texas knows, it can be windy. The wind forecast was for 25-35 mph from the south, causing the faint of heart to decline to show or fly.

The forecast turned out to be accurate, making this contest probably the windiest in SPA history, with winds gusting into the 40 range – winds that would keep most full size airplanes grounded. After a short judging seminar, seven people flew. Pat Ensign, Todd Blose and Danny Jackson flew in Master class. Wes Lewis and Chuck Lee flew in Expert class. Both classes flew four rounds with Todd and Wes taking firsts. Second in Master was really close with Pat slightly edging out Danny.

Later in the afternoon, Ken Knotts and Tim Reed (coming back after an 8-year hiatus) found the courage to fly one round and made impressive flights in Advanced. Ken earned the First place.

The contest was in the windiest conditions some of us had ever flown, and proved to be as much a learning experience as a contest. There were no crashes or damage, not even a busted prop when it was all said and done. After the contest the CD received thanks for NOT cancelling due to weather.

A big thanks to the Wings club for making this event possible, particularly Greg for organizing logistics, supplies and manpower help, Bob for the usual fabulous all-u-can-eat taco lunch, and Leslie on contest maintenance, scoring and awards.

Buzzardaire

Final Scores
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