"Omens did not look good, first thing in the morning as heavy rain bombarded most of the north west, but thankfully and with a huge sigh the rain cleared before any serious flying took place, (little did we know what part the mornings rain would play in the day's events) With the promise of cake the turnout was very good (it says a lot for the waistbands at our club!) and virtually everyone present took part, only the wizard tea maker declined to take part, although he did confess to me later it was because he had forgotten how to set the brake on his electric prangster.."
Results...
As you will no doubt be aware, our flying hours change during the summer months - between the May and August Bank Holidays.
Although this has no effect on the electric or 'silent' flying, our I.C. flying hours are different.
Please make yourself aware of the details here.
Don't forget - Spot Landing comp is this coming Sunday.
If you haven't been to field lately you won't have seen our posh new starting bench
Built by Rob, the plans are widely available if you want one for yourself
The Egg Drop competition was completed on Easter Sunday and you can read all about it in the CD's report here.
The 'Spot Landing' is next so check on the Calender to make sure you don't miss it.
Wadsworth points have been updated here.
Daniel Ellison has become our youngest ever fully qualified flying member passing his TMFC Class II Wings.
Congratulations Dan
Our favourite competition took place last Sunday and you can read all about it in the CD's report here.
The 'Egg Drop' isn't far away so check on the Calender for the dates.
See the Wadsworth points so far on the table here.
Derek has had a break-in to his car last night and two models have been stolen in the process.
A Brand New JP Prangster (electric conversion) and a WOT4 black & white striped (electric).
A Massive thanks to everyone who supported the most prestigous event in the calender of Tyldesley Model Flying Club.
Thanks to Vulcan Models and all members who contributed raffle prizes.
Here are some pictures of the night.
Appologies for the delay in getting this uploaded.
It's already in the Calender, and you all should know it's always the first Tuesday in December each year.
Please put a note in your diary's for Tuesday 7th December 2010 for this years TMFC AGM.
Anything you want presenting on the Agenda to be in to the Secretary at the latest two weeks before the day.
Any queries, contact Mark
There are two confirmed displays, one at Kendal and one at Sedbergh.
Please contact Dan on 07524 722021 for details if you can lend support - Kendal is Friday 5th and Sedbergh is Saturday 6th.
There are also requirements for assistance 'down south' by Pheonix for the weekend, travelling will be necessary but there could well be 'recompence' for those willing to join in. Ring Dan for further details.
A day 'or so' of preperation will be required for the two shows and Dan will be posting HERE, on the latest news, when this is planned - any support will be most appreciated.
Dan Fitton
Chairman
The date has been confirmed as Friday 26th November and the location this year is the Raven Inn, Glazebury.
The menu has already been sent out and if you want to secure your place then please let Gary Stanley know as soon as possible.
Contact Gary on 07785388211 or send him an E-Mail at gstanley95@ntlworld.com
If you have any trophies from last year can you please get them to Andy as soon as possible for engraving.
Cheers,
Dicky.
Tmfc was warmly welcomed again at the Manchester city airport open day. Despite a blustery day and the occasional light shower the public where out in strength and our static display was appreciated by many.
We're all off to the nats for the weekend but for the stragglers who are left, remember that this is the last week of 'summer' hours at the field (12 o'clock etc). Check here if unsure.
From Thursday 2nd September we go back to 'normal' hours, 11 o'clock start Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for I.C. flight. Electric 'Silent' flying stays the same.
Also don't forget the next meeting, Tuesday September 7th - usual place.
Cheers,
Dicky.
Congratulations to Brian for passing his 'A' certificate today - a long awaited achievement but completed very well indeed
Dave
BMFA Examiner Fixed Wing
Review the decision of Wigan Council over our application for permanent permission to fly silent flight on the TMFC patch
See the Document here.
Cheers,
Dicky
A perfect day came along for the TMFC Climb & Glide competition today - very calm, sunny blue skies and a smattering of the right kind of clouds with some birdies floating around without flapping their wings to boot.
Each pilot had until 16:00 to put in up to three flights - the best time going forward to score.
A total of Nine fliers attended the briefing where the 30 second climb was agreed along with the rest of the rules for the day.
Dave was first out with his electric powered Alpha Club but didn't manage to get anywhere near the times he'd achieved in practice earlier in the day, a first score of 5:30 was put on the scoreboard.
Josh was keen to get his name on the scoreboard too but with an electric powered EasyStar he was really battling to put a decent time in, managing just 1:11 and failing to hit the runway.
Dick's turn now with his trusty electric Cougar managing a winning score of 7:59 but at only 13:30 in the afternoon there was plenty of time (and flights) left for the rest.
Lee didn't waste any time and flying his electric Blizzard out of sight for most of us (and even him at times!) put a new winning time of 9:48 up there.
Glynn came out with the first I.C. model - a Frantic - but only managed a disappointing 2:19.
Andy next with his I.C. Cougar to fly a 5:21 but then went straight back up with his second attempt to put in a new winning score of 10:34.
Dave came back out with his Alpha Club to improve on his first score, but not quite enough to catch Andy, by flying a 9:46 - just two seconds from second place!
Rob took his first attempt with his electric E-Hawk 1400 to put a perfectly respectable 6:52 on the board.
Kev decided to break the peace with his I.C. Cougar during Rob's flight but only put in a miniscule 2:04 minutes.
Josh came back out for another go with his EasyStar doubling his first score with a 2:07 and no penalties this time.
John threw his hat into the ring with his electric JP Thrush but only managed a 2:29 suffering with orientation problems.
Josh then went back up for his final flight of the day - again with the EasyStar - and improved yet again with a 3:02 total score.
John came back with his Thrush for a second go but this time lost it completely almost straight after the climb and ended up crashing into Andy, standing in the pilots box, ending his session with this model with the lowest time of the day of just 47 seconds.
Dick thought he'd try his luck with his I.C. Cougar and flew in the opposite direction to everyone else, heading for the scrapyard and managing to stay aloft for an improvement of 9:52 - second place so far.
With just an hour to go Glynn came back out only this time with his E-Hawk 1500 electric glider to improve on his previous score with 3:13.
Dave next with his last flight of the competition, using the same model again, on this time capturing all the best lift of the day and keeping it up for a winning time of 19:36.
Seeing Dave's good luck, Rob came back out for another go with his Hawk and staying pretty consistent put in an improvement (just) with 7:09.
John was also watching Dave and came back with his I.C. Cougar to see if he could get in the same bit of sky but failed to capitalise with a dismal time of just 2:08 but at least he didn't try to kill anyone this time!
With only ten minutes to go a flurry of last ditch attempts came from Rob, Glynn and Dick but none of them could get any decent lift and each came back with 7:00, 5:40, and 4:10 respectively.
With all the scores worked out it was back to the caravan for Dicky to announce the final positions and points and thank all competitors for a great day's flying.
| Pilot | Model | Power Source | Time of Launch | Flight # | Flight Time | Position | Wadworth Points |
| Dave | Alpha Club | Electric | 15:15 | 3 | 19:36 | First | 100 |
| Andy | Cougar | I.C. | 13:59 | 2 | 10:34 | Second | 54 |
| Dicky | Cougar | I.C. | 14:51 | 2 | 9:52 | Third | 50 |
| Lee | Blizzard | Electric | 13:24 | 1 | 9:48 | Fourth | 50 |
| Rob | E-Hawk 1400 | Electric | 15:25 | 2 | 7:09 | Fifth | 37 |
| Glynn | E-Hawk 1500 | Electric | 15:53 | 3 | 5:40 | Sixth | 29 |
| Josh | EasyStar | Electric | 14:27 | 3 | 3:02 | Seventh | 16 |
| John | JP Thrush | Electric | 14:30 | 1 | 2:29 | Eighth | 13 |
| Kev | Cougar | I.C. | 14:16 | 1 | 2:04 | Ninth | 11 |
Congratulations to Dan for passing his BMFA 'A' test last weekend - our youngest member!
The forecast for the day was changeable and the weather was pretty much all over the place! 13:00 came and the wind hadn't let-up all morning, blowing a gale and gusting at least 30mph.
All competitors gathered it was decided to delay the comp for an hour or so to see how the afternoon would develop. There was glorious sunshine and although a couple of people were prepared to fly the majority decision was to wait.
Most of the day passed and then at 16:00 the wind dropped almost completely so everyone got ready and assembled on the crosswind runway for the mass-launch.
John was kind enough to give a countdown and then we all launched off together. All went well for a couple of minutes but then a couple of pilots luck ran out.
Brian was the first to hit the deck closely followed by Dicky - who did his best to hit the deck harder! Both missing the runway and landing at 8:20 and 9:45 respectively. Brian's problem was orientation with such a small model and Dicky fell foul to the 'curse of the Spektrum AR500 receiver' losing all control completely!
This left three - Mark, Dave, and Glynn battling it out for more sensible times. Mark was next to land, flattening his battery, with a 'more than reasonable' time of 33:20. First competitor to land on the runway!
Dave couldn't keep his up any more and managed a measly 43:15 leaving Glynn to fly to victory as the winner. On his second attempt to land the model in one piece, Glynn eventually touched down perfectly with a time of 46:20.
Brian flew with a Multiplex Merlin using an Overlander 850mAh 3S1P LiPo battery. Came Fifth gaining 20 wadsorth points.
Dicky flew with a JP Thrush using a Flightpower Eon25 1500mAh 3S1P LiPo battery. Came Fourth gaining 40 wadsworth points. Wishing he'd selected a different model!
Mark flew with a Multiplex Blizzard using a Flightpower Eon28 1500mAh 3S1P LiPo battery. Came Third gaining 60 wadsworth points.
Dave flew with a Java using a Flightpower Eon25 1500mAh 3S1P LiPo battery. Came Second gaining 80 wadsworth points. Wishing he'd selected a different battery!
Glynn flew with a ThunderTiger E-Hark 1500 using a Flightpower EonX 1300mAh 3S1P battery. Came First gaining 100 wadsworth points.
The BBQ was lit during the competition and John presented us with some excellent food ably assisted by Gordon. Derek supplied the afternoon snack of lemon meringue pie and Dicky supplied afters in the form of applie pie with custard!
Suitably fed and watered we all sat around with our belly's hanging out while the rest of the batterys were flattened in the air until it was time to give up and go home.
Congragulations Glynn, thanks to all members for supporting the competition, special thanks to John and Gordon for catering and see you all next comp on Sunday 15th August for the Climb & Glide.
See the latest Wadsworth points here.
Cheers
Dicky
As you may have been aware, there was an 'overnight party stopover' scheduled for this Saturday with the Electric All Up Last Down comp on Sunday.
Due to an apparent lack of interest (and the decision made at last nights committee meeting) the overnight part has been cancelled.
The competition will go ahead as planned on Sunday and a BBQ available afterwards for all members wishing to support the event.
Thanks
Dicky
The time arrived for the annual 'Spot Landing Competition' and the weather was on our side too. Nine out of the ten members on the field today decided to enter the competition and it all kicked off at 13:00 for a flight briefing covering all the rules as previously published.
The flight order was picked out of a hat and Derek draw the short straw as first to the flightline. Dicky did offer to take his place as it was a bit unfair but the rest of the competitors (somehow thinking he was up to something!) complained so the order stood.
A powered landing first which arrived somewhat haphazardly bouncing on the front wheel of his trainer stopping the prop instantly - a max score. The deadstick came in similar lines only this time he missed the runway completely and another max was awarded. 60M total for Derek.
Dicky out next with his trusty electric Cougar to show the rest how to do it putting in a perfectly respectable 2.0M on the powered landing, the deadstick followed immediately with an even better 0.74M to give a total of 2.74M overall.
Next was Mark who decided to bring possibly the most unsuitable model of the day in a Multiplex Blizzard glider. He'd 'attached' a skid to the nose to enable it to land with the prop still running - as the rules required but unfortunately didn't allow for the folding prop getting caught up in the fixings of this new apperture and consequently scored a maximum for his powered attempt. The deadstick was much simpler with this model although the glide was a little too good and he managed to fly past the spot 9.5M to give him a total of 39.5M.
Glyn came out with his Twister and a look of determination about him but unfortunately mis-judged the boundary of the runway and just missed the mown strip scoring a max. The deadstick was a much better guided affair landing 7.1M away giving him a total of 37.1M.
Next out was Brian with his trainer who managed quite an impressive 'touch-n-go' but failed to get the model down within the confines of the runway scoring a max. His powereless landing wasn't so well aimed and he missed the runway totally giving him another max and a total of 60M
John now with the second Cougar of the day misjudged the strip landing short in the long grass to get a max. Deadstick proved much easier for him and he put in a very tidy 3.53M giving him a total of 33.53M
Dave proceded to the runway for his turn with an electric Magic muttering things about the rules on the prop turning under his breath on his way. He then spent a while on the floor programming his setup to ensure the prop didn't stop for his powered landing. The model came in very nicely but just didn't want to sink at all and flew past the spot by 15.0M - oh dear. The deadstick attempt was succesful with respect of the concern about the prop turning but he didn't allow for the wind and dropped well short at a massive 22.62M - at least he hit the runway twice though. Total score for Dave was 37.62M.
Kevins turn next and despite various attempts to 'chicken out' by having a very badly behaved engine finally made it to take the third Cougar off the runway for his powered landing and returned with an impressive 4.72M. With a quick repair (putting the wheel back on the main landing gear!) he was back in the air preparing himself for the deadstick part which unfortunately ended up wide of the runway 'in the rough' scoring a max to give him a total of 34.72M.
Last out was Alan with a very capable Wot4 coming in 'very hot' to say the least (but not a dive - honest!) trimming the grass but managing to keep his engine running to get a score of 6.54M. Back up for his deadstick landing another 'not dive' manouvre ended up with a divet or two proving his first point of contact to be 2.59M away from the spot. Total score of 9.13M awarded.
Competition ended it was time to look at the scores and see who wanted to play their wildcards. Glyn had already expressed his wishes and Dave tried to get one over (unfortunately for him the CD was 'on the ball' and knew he'd already played it previously!). Alan decided to stick with second place but Mark was eager to try again along with Kev so another flying order for the three wildcard participants was drawn.
After a short interval Kev came back out and presented a very floaty landing - too floaty in fact and it just wouldn't drop at all, eventually touching down 17.2M past the spot. His deadstick affair suffered the increase of wind from the first attempts resulting in a shortfal of 19.5M giving him a new total of 36.7M, not quite as good as his first go but not changing position yet.
Next was Mark's turn to prove that it wasn't such a bad idea as everyone thought using a glider with no undercarriage for this competition. Unfortunately repeating his first go, the powered landing ended (as expected) with the prop stalled and regarless of all his efforts it could only be awarded a max. His powereless effort proved very sucessful and resulted in a 6.6M giving him a new total of 36.6M, a 3M advantage over his previous score.
Lastly Glyn returned to the runway determined to improve and a very steady landing with the power on resulted in a touchdown at 4.7M. Disaster struck without the prop turning on his deadstick attempt as the drift downwind was too great to allow him to even reach the runway let alone anywhere near the spot and a max was scored giving him a new total of 34.7M, another 3M (nearly) improvement on his first go.
With all the flights completed it was time to work out the new scores and announce the placings as follows :
| Flight Pos | Pilot | Model | Powered Landing | Deadstick Landing | Total Distance | Placing | Wadsorth Pts | |
| 1 | Derek | Solo Trainer I.C. | 30M Max | 30M Max | 60M Max | Eighth | 22 | |
| 2 | Dicky | Cougar Electric | 2.0M | 0.74M | 2.74M | First | 100 | |
| 3 | Mark | Blizzard Electric | 30M Max | 6.6M | 36.6M | Fifth | 56 | Wildcard! |
| 4 | Glyn | Twister I.C. | 4.7M | 30M Max | 34.7M | Fourth | 67 | Wildcard! |
| 5 | Brian R | Trainer I.C. | 30M Max | 30M Max | 60M Max | Eighth | 22 | |
| 6 | John | Cougar I.C. | 30M Max | 3.53M | 33.53M | Third | 78 | |
| 7 | Dave | Magic Electric | 15.0M | 22.62M | 37.62M | Seventh | 33 | |
| 8 | Kev (snr) | Cougar I.C. | 17.2M | 19.5M | 36.7M | Sixth | 44 | Wildcard! |
| 9 | Alan | Wot4 I.C. | 6.54M | 2.59M | 9.13M | Second | 89 |
As usual, with the passing of the May Bank Holiday, our flying hours change for the summer months for ALL I.C. powered models.
On Thursdays and Saturdays the hours change from 11:00 till 19:00 to 12:00 till 19:00 and on Sundays the hours change from 11:00 till 19:00 to 10:00 till 19:00.
No change for silent or electric flight.
Remember, meeting this Tuesday evening and Spot Landing competition this Sunday.
See you at the field
Dicky
We have been advised by our landlords that the gate has been left open during one of our flying days.
Please ensure you keep the gate closed AT ALL TIMES even if it's open when you enter/leave the field. ALWAYS close it behind you.
If any visitors arrive at the field, who may be completely unwaware of importance of this request, then please advise them accordingly.
Thanks
Dicky
Mr P.R.O. (Gary Stanley) has now taken devlivery of some nice new fleeces and caps so if you've requested one, or would like one then he's your man.
All payments to be made to the Treasurer accordingly - Fleeces £22.00, Caps £8.50 (new 'red-peek').
Smarten yourselves up and keep warm in the lovely British weather with the latest in TMFC fasion-wear.
Dicky
Great news for all TMFC Members - flying on Bank Holidays at the patch has now been given the OK by our landlord.
Silent (Electric Power or Glider) flight only due to planning permission.
Please bear in mind that the scrap yard may well be busy during the bank holiday period and patience MUST be exercised when access is limited.
Dicky
Today was the day for Colin Nolan and his TMFC wings test.
Andy and Rob put him through his paces and over a few flights he proved he could do what was required.
Congratulations Colin.
Dicky
Easter Sunday and what better way to spend it than down on the flying field dropping eggs out of aeroplanes at a target on the runway in an attempt to win an Easter egg!
The weather was on our side with some lovely sunshine mixed in with some pretty fierce gusty winds - to be honest it was great just to get away with no rain.
Competitors gathered in the caravan, we went over all the rules, prepared our eggs, and picked the flying order for the first round.
First out was Kevin who hand't had the pleasure of trying this one out previously as it was his first competition in the club. We'd agreed a maximum of 50M for all eggs which couldn't be measured by our 30M tape measure and Kev was the first to drop outside of this zone scoring a maximum.
Next was Dicky's turn and, armed with his Jet Trainer, proceded to out-do Kev by dropping the egg in another field somewhere far down wind - the switch was flicked but no egg departed the aircraft until sometime later after much 'flicking' and strange flight patterns but unfortunately coupled with much drift downwind.
Third was Kevin (senior) who put the first real score on the board with an impressive 16M - showing his son and the rest of us that it was possible!
Colin now with a drop which strained the best of eye-sights to spot the falling egg somewhere distant from the bounds of the measure, another max.
Gordon next with the first electric model but unfortunately another egg which wasn't close enough to spot falling, or on the ground, another max.
Sixth was Brian who followed the rest of us dropping far too soon and falling too far downwind to measure with our measly 30M tape, another max.
Glyn was next out with the experience of seeing how far wrong the previous pilots fell followed to drop along with the others unfortunately and scored the sixth max.
Now we had one leader and six people in second place! Surely this could only get better?
Second from last was Dave who, eager to get some chocolate before the end of the day, dropped where he was convinced was the right place and just squeezed inside the tape measure boundary to score a 27M.
Last out from the first round was Alan who, with a keen eye, proceeded to show us all where we went wrong by dropping a winning 5M from the target.
Three pilots on the scoreboard and six in fourth place with maximum's it was time to have a break, a cuppa, and a reflection of where we were all going wrong!
Second round order was the reverse of the first round so Alan kicked off to prove it was no fluke last time with a drop of 13M - it was just as well he was dropping so close as there was no streamer to spot if it failed to hit the runway! Total score of two rounds of 18M.
Next Dave was eager to improve on his first drop and stay in the prize zone but managed to prove his first was a complete fluke by dropping a max giving his total of 77M.
Third Glyn who didn't learn the affects of the wind and dropped another max giving him a total of 100M.
Brian next who copied Glyn in dropping another max and the same total of 100M.
Now Gordon could show us the way and although we were able to spot his egg this time it was still outside the limits of the measure scoring a total of 100M.
Colin couldn't improve on his first drop scoring another max giving yet another 100M.
Kevin (senior) next putting us all to shame by scoring another drop, not quite as good as the first but still a measurable 27.5M pushing his total to 43.5M.
Next out with the Jet (eventually - starting was proving a bit problematic!) was Dicky who improved on his first drop by actually selecting the right field this time but failing to drop within a measurable distance giving a maximum of 100M total.
Last for the two rounds was Kevin and after watching everybody else since his first attempt did improve with a second closest so far of 10M giving him a total over the two rounds of 60M.
Now we had completed the two rounds it was time to retire back to the caravan and review the scores. Each pilot was given fifteen minutes to elect to use a 'WildCard' if they had one or stick with the score already achieved. It didn't take long for the four pilots to come forward so after a short break, the scores for Kev, Dicky, Brian and Dave were scrubbed and it was time to go out and do it all again.
| Flight Pos | Pilot | Model | 1st Drop | 2nd Drop | Total Distance | Placing |
| 1.9 | Kev | Cougar I.C. | 50 | 10 | 60 | Third |
| 2.8 | Dicky | Jet A1 Turbine | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last |
| 3.7 | Kev (snr) | Cougar I.C. | 16 | 27.5 | 43.5 | Second |
| 4.6 | Colin | LA Racer I.C. | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last |
| 5.5 | Gordon | Cougar Electric | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last |
| 6.4 | Brian | Wot4 I.C. | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last |
| 7.3 | Glyn | Precedent FunFly I.C. | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last |
| 8.2 | Dave | YT Magic Electric | 27 | 50 | 77 | Fourth |
| 9.1 | Alan | Wot4 I.C. | 5 | 13 | 18 | First |
| Flight Pos | Pilot | Model | 1st Drop | 2nd Drop | Total Distance | Placing | Wadsorth Pts | |
| 9.1 | Alan | Wot4 I.C. | 5 | 13 | 18 | First | 100 | |
| 2.8 / 2.3 | Dicky | Wot4 Electric | 5.5 | 28 | 33.5 | Second | 89 | Wildcard! |
| 6.4 / 3.2 | Brian | Wot4 Electric | 16.7 | 25 | 41.7 | Third | 78 | Wildcard! |
| 3.7 | Kev (snr) | Cougar I.C. | 16 | 27.5 | 43.5 | Fourth | 67 | |
| 8.2 / 4.1 | Dave | YT Magic Electric | 50 | 15.3 | 65.3 | Fifth | 56 | Wildcard! |
| 1.9 / 1.4 | Kev (jnr) | Cougar I.C. | 50 | 21 | 71 | Sixth | 44 | Wildcard! |
| 4.6 | Colin | LA Racer I.C. | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last | 33 | |
| 5.5 | Gordon | Cougar Electric | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last | 33 | |
| 7.3 | Glyn | Precedent FunFly I.C. | 50 | 50 | 100 | Last | 33 |
After many years of service to the training scheme, our favourite beginner has finally passed his Tyldesley Class II wings!
Congratulations Gordon, it's always a pleasure to fly with you - and now you don't even have to ask.
It'll be nice to see some of those posh models, in the fleet you've built up over the years, see some airtime at last ;)
Dicky
A beautiful blue sky presented itself on this important date in the TMFC calendar, unfortunately the wind came along too - and plenty of it!
The Limbo competition is always much looked forward to and for the people who made the effort this one certainly didn't dissapoint.
A full caravan but only six brave souls prepared to have a go with the elements putting many off.
The rules read out and totally understood by all, numbers were drawn out of a hat to determine flying order. A 'Joker' introduced also this year (the drawer of this was entitled to fly in whatever position he wants) and was picked out by Dave who elected to fly last - most likely not realising that the second round was in reverse order?
The rest came out as Alan then John then Lee then Glyn then Dick.
As Alan was preparing his model for the first flight Glyn's managed to take off whilst in the pitts tearing off the back end and rendering him helpless with no 'spare' to take its place.
Alan flew his I.C. Cougar through the gate to start his two minute countdown but only managed a couple more passes before a 'knife edge' strike with the ground resulted in a cartwheel and similar rear-end damage to Glyn's which ended his turn.
John now with his ageing, modified, I.C. Magic and not managing to get under gate within a minute of taking off, ate into his two minutes counting time only to manage one pass before the clock signalled the end of that round for him.
Lee out next with an I.C. Hype 3D and some very close passes to the far pole eventually resulting in a strike with said pole and although he landed OK the model was too damaged to continue but at least he'd put in an excellent effort with four clean passes.
Glyn couldn't get up in the air so next out was Dick with his Electric Cougar which suffered in it's 'light-weight' configuration in the windy conditions. On the fourth pass through the gate the string reached out and grabbed the model where it hung for a second before plummeting to the floor resulting in a broken prop which ended his first round.
Dave out last with an Electric Precedent FunFly model - not his first choice for the competition as he'd written off his Limbo Dancer, before we got underway, sneaking in a quick practice! After a nervous start and a couple of close brushes with the top string of the gate he completed a winning score of seven passes. Actually the timekeeper slipped up with the stopwatch so it was more of a 'guesstimate' of the time allowed so the CD offered him a choice of flying the round again or accepting the number of passes he'd already completed. He took one look at the wind conditions and decided to 'stick'.
A well-earned break was called and we all retired to the caravan to reflect and prepare for the second round (apart from Dick who was frantically running around trying to find another prop!).
With the 'accidents' in the first round resulting in Allan, Lee and Glyn retiring only three remained. For some reason Dicky's Cougar hadn't suffered any damage from nosing into the ground from the top of the gate and with a fresh prop he was able to continue.
Order reversed, Dave was first out and copied his first round with some close shaves and Seven passes, nearly taking out two of the spectators in his final seconds - Lee moved like a premiership goalkeeper leaping out of the way - making his final total Fourteen Passes.
Dicky next with a heavier battery and tougher prop, knowing he'd need at least twelve to get past Dave, carefully went through - still dicing with the top string - the twelve required and then went crazy and squeezed another Four to make Sixteen. Added to his initial Three totalled Nineteen Passes.
John lastly with some desperate attempts to get through the gate, we forgot to limit the 'trimming' flight but eventually he got his first pass to start the clock ticking. He then went on to complete another Five passes, one taking his undercarriage off by bouncing off a supporting stake, before it was time to land. Final total for John totalling Six.
Remarkably (or not as the case may be with the weather conditions!) there were no calls for playing 'WildCards' from any of the competitors so the competition ended (although the 'gate' stayed put for some further practising - we really should do this more than just once per year!).
Final results in the table below. Massive thanks to everyone who attended to support the competition whether competing or not, especially Gordon and Colin for timekeeping and scoring.
| Position | Pilot | 1st Round Passes | 2nd Round Passes | Total Passes | Wadsworth Pts | Model Flown |
| 1. | Dicky | 3 | 16 | 19 | 100 | Cougar Electric |
| 2. | Dave | 7 | 7 | 14 | 74 | Precedent FunFly Electric |
| 3. | John | 1 | 5 | 6 | 32 | Magic I.C. |
| 4. | Lee | 4 | - | 4 | 21 | Hype 3D I.C. |
| 5. | Alan | 3 | - | 3 | 16 | Cougar I.C. |
| 6. | Glyn | - | - | - | 0 | Orange 'HomeDesign' I.C. |
To see the latest Club Bulletin with regards to the new weight restrictions on BMFA certifications click here. There's also stuff in there about a 'Jet C' certificate and changes to the helicopter 'B' cerificate (again!) if you're interested.
Dicky
Please note that effective 1st January 2010 BMFA rule changes are in place which affect the A & B Fixed wing certificates. Primarily it will not be possible to take the tests with a model of less than 1kg (2.2lbs) weight - without fuel but with batteries.
Full details will be posted on the club notice board soon.
Andy
BMFA Delegate
Have any of you got an exercise bike that's sitting in the corner somewhere just gathering dust - you know how it is after the first couple of weeks of the new year etc.
The batteries have been struggling a little lately with a lack of wind and the sun being low in the sky (when it does grace us with its presence) coupled with some rather large LiPo's in use on the patch for charging (no names necessary - you know who you are!).
The idea was suggested firstly as a joke and then taken a little more seriously. I think we can get something rigged up so that when the solar panel and wind generator haven't got the elements to pump enough power in for us we can generate some of our own.
A rowing machine may possibly 'hit the spot' as long as it has a flywheel we can tap into and not just hydraulics on the arms.
It would be good for certain members (again, you know who you are) to get some exercise while on the field - flying toy aeroplanes and helicopters isn't exactly good for the general body shape - while waiting for the flightpacks to charge between flights.
Any offers please get in touch.
Thanks
Dicky Fry
Biggest culprit in all aspects!
What a fantastic day for flying models that don't need a runway ;)
Please note that subs were due by January 1st and I'd like to remind everybody that flying is only permissible at TMFC once members are FULLY PAID UP.
By all means, come down to the field with your models AND funds by either cash or cheque, if you haven't yet paid, and present them to either the Secretary or Treasurer to ensure that you
are covered and insured BEFORE you fly. All cheques to be made payable to Tyldesley Model Flying Club. Subscription charges are here.
Any questions just give me or Mark a call.
Thanks
Dicky Fry
Club Treasurer
January committee meeting postponed due to adverse weather and travelling conditions. Meeting to be re-scheduled for 12th January.
Andy
(On behalf of committee)
Could everyone please note that 2010 subs are as follows:
Adult £50 subs + £29 BMFA
Junior £25 subs + £15 BMFA or £11 BMFA as familly junior (if accompanied by a paying senior).
Mark Royle
Club Secretary
Thanks to all members who attended this years annual dinner and prize giving at Chequers in West Houghton. There were some very worthy recipients of our awards and a good time was had by all.
A special mention to Andy Ellison who was made a life member of TMFC after 30 years of service to the club - congratulations Andy!
I look forward to seeing you all at the AGM to be held at the Ross's Arms Astley on Tuesday 1st December at 8.00pm.
Dan Fitton
Chairman
Please be advised that the date for the Clubs Annual Dinner and Prizegiving is set for Friday 20th November at the Chequers Restraunt on the A6 at Westhoughton. Price and Menu to follow asap.
Andy
Congratulations to Brian Nicholls and Daniel Goulding-Ellison who both passed their class two and class one wings respectively recently.
Now.......who's next?
The club meeting of Tuesday 3rd September discussed the car parking arrangements at the flying field.
Recent revised mowing has left the car parking positions near to the caravan poorly defined.
Members are asked to park as far away from the edge of the runway as possible in an orderly line on the parallel of the mower container. please avoid parking at the front of vehicles already established in such a line instead favouring parking at the rear where the land has recently been reclaimed.
Negotiations to clear the hard standing of the off site car park are continuing with the landlord and it is hoped this will once again bee fully available before the adverse weather of the winter sets in.
Andy Ellison
President
TMFC
The club has agreed to once again support the very popular (Barton) City Airport open day with a static display of models on Saturday 19th September.
Members are invited to come along and help man the club stand and bring suitably 'tidy' models for display and soak up the atmosphere of this popular aviation event.
The increase in activity of full sized aircraft throughout the day sadly means the club cannot fly models at Barton but the last static display we did a few months ago was very well received.
Barton is our local aerodrome and we are honoured as a club to be asked to support it.
Please congregate on site from 9:30am. The club will have a Marquee to aid sheltering of models from the elements if required but the static display will be essentially outside between the clubhouse and control tower. An area has been set aside alongside various full size displays.
please contact Andy at slopetrashuk@ntlworld.com if you are able to offer your support and bring models for show.
The public will be in attendance from 10:00am until around 4pm leaving plenty of time to get back to the club site for the remainder of the flying day.
Andy Ellison
P.R.O.
TMFC
A cloudy and windy day arrived with promises of not being so 'ideal' for holding the last competition of the TMFC calander but it got better through the day and we all had a great time trying to get the longest flight out of a 30 second climb.
Eight Pilots registered for the comp, but only six ended up putting flights in.
A couple of early flights set the pace with everyone having up to three possible attempts within the two alloted hours to show us all how it was done.
The highest times and scores are as follows :
| Time | Pilot | Position | Wadsworth Points |
| 18.04 | Dave | First | 100 |
| 10.20 | Jacob | Second | 57 |
| 4.59 | Colin | Third | 28 |
| 4.39 | Dick | Fourth | 26 |
| 3.55 | Glynn | Fifth | 22 |
| 3.30 | John | Sixth | 19 |
Rob has completed his sponsored bike ride mentioned below and at the July club meeting and has the following message :
We completed the ride which turned out to clock up 188 miles and have exceeded our fundraising target of £2k and have raised £2355 or 118% currently, which when doubled and the giftaid should mean Christies get about £5k!
Oh and Sudacrem is great stuff - too much info I know!
Nice one Rob - hope the healing goes well ;)
Regretably due to dire weather the stopover event has had to be postponed - new date to appear when decision is made.
Electric All-Up-Last-Down competition was able to take place inbetween the showers and the results are as follows :
1st to land, Gordon flying an EasyStar with 8:04 but less a 10% penatly for missing the runway scoring 9 wadsworth points
2nd to land, Derek flying an EasyStar with 18:36 scoring 18 wadsworth points
3rd to land, Frank flying an EasyStar with 19:54 scoring 27 wadsworth points
4th to land, Daniel flying an EasyStar with 20:34 scoring 36 wadsworth points
5th to land, Colin flying an EasyGlider with 28:50 scoring 45 wadsworth points
6th to land, John flying a Thrush with 36:42 scoring 55 wadsworth points
7th to land, Mark flying an Easy Pigeon with 42:56 but less a 10% penalty for missing the runway scoring 64 wadsworth points
8th to land, Andy flying a Gryphon with 47:48 scoring 73 wadsworth points
9th to land, Dicky flying a Thrush with 56:00 scoring 82 wadsworth points
10th to land, Dave flying a Java with 58:36 scoring 91 wadsworth points
11th - and LAST to land - Rob flying a Hawk1400 with 65 minutes (and loads of power left!) scoring 100 wadsworth points.
Congratulations to Rob, we do believe the battery was legitimate - honest!
Wadsworth points now added to the table and only one qualifying competition left which is the 'Climb n Glide' scheduled to happen on Sunday August 16th.
See the Wadsworth points here.
Remember that there has to be one competition result dropped from the total (it's up to you, but we usually take the lowest!) so it's not all over just yet.
At the last monthly meeting it was agreed to sponser one of our members, Rob Stenhouse, as he attempts to compelte a 'Coast to Coast' bike ride in aid of the Christies charity.
You can find out more information at the Just Giving website.
There are more challenges and details at http://tinyurl.com/czk3tq and http://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=yoqsjzcryofzjvar
If you want to sponsor Rob then get in touch, or catch up with him next time you see him at the field.
Just a reminder that the Electric 'All up, Last down' competition is this weekend.
The Annual Stopover / Party night will take place on Saturday 11th July with BBQ and all the usual frivolity no doubt
Sunday 12th will see the competition - starting time 13:00 as usual
As you will no doubt already be aware, there are limitations on power use in this years comp. Dave has decreed that the maximum cell size for lithium powered models is not to exceed 1500mAh for two and three cell packs (three being the maximum size allowed).
For those still using the old-fashion NiMH and NiCAD technology then 8 cell (9.6v) and 1800mAh is the maximum allowed.
As normal, CD's decision is final so don't think he hasn't thought about the possibility of printing smaller size labels for larger cells!
If you're still yet to find a suitable pack then Dicky has a couple of FlighPower 1500 3S1P EVO packs up for grabs, prices are reasonable at the moment, but are due to rise the closer we get to the weekend!
Following a successful application, our hours have now been extended for SILENT FLIGHT MODELS.
Flying has now been extended on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday to 09:00 till 21:00 for Electric powered and other silent models.
I/C Powered models are still restricted as below.
So, just to make sure :
Thursday 09:00 to 12:00 SILENT ONLY, 12:00 to 19:00 ANY POWERED FLIGHT, 19:00 to 21:00 SILENT ONLY
Saturday 09:00 to 12:00 SILENT ONLY, 12:00 to 19:00 ANY POWERED FLIGHT, 19:00 to 21:00 SILENT ONLY
Sunday 09:00 to 12:00 SILENT ONLY, 10:00 to 19:00 ANY POWERED FLIGHT, 19:00 to 21:00 SILENT ONLY
Gent's
I'm very dissappointed in the amount of litter left around the flying field in the aftermath of the spot landing comp. Can the owner of the Dummies and Teddies please remove them from the patch to facilitate flying this Thursday.
Thanks
Andy.
On a glorious day the competition was finally held.
Apparently, some guy called Richard won!
More details to follow ;)
Following the last debarcle of setting a date (apologies from the webmaster!) it was brought up at the June meeting and the CD said that the comp would definately take place this Sunday - 7th June.
In the event of bad weather the comp will be held the following Sunday until a good day comes along.
Turn up and show us all what you're made of ;)
From today (effective Thursday 28th May) the flying hours change at the field.
Thursdays and Saturdays Flying Times are 12:00 till 19:00
Sundays Flying Times are 10:00 till 19:00
Re-scheduled 'Spot Landing' Competition to be held Sunday 31st May @ 13:00 after bad weather stopped play on 17th!
What must be a record turnout appeared for this years 'eggstravagant' Egg Drop Competition when no less than eighteen pilots registered with the CD.
The names were put in a hat and drawn out to reveal the flying order and the CD went through the rules. As the number of entrants was so high it was decided to drop both eggs consecutively rather than holding two rounds as in the past.
The results built up as follows :
| Flight Pos | Pilot | 1st Drop | 2nd Drop | Total Distance | Placing |
| 1. | Brian | 13 | 30 | 43 | 10 |
| 2. | Kevin | 30 | 30 | 60 | 14 |
| 3. | Glynn | 30 | 4.77 | 34.77 | 7 |
| 4. | Dicky | 9.18 | 7 | 16.18 | 1 |
| 5. | Rob | 8.01 | 24.32 | 32.33 | 5 |
| 6. | John | 20.33 | 30 | 50.33 | 13 |
| 7. | Daniel | 19.36 | 12.29 | 31.65 | 4 |
| 8. | Graham | 30 | 30 | 60 | 15 |
| 9. | Andy | 16.60 | 17.23 | 33.83 | 6 |
| 10. | Frank | 30 | 12.93 | 42.93 | 9 |
| 11. | Gordon | 30 | 30 | 60 | 16 |
| 12. | Dave | 19.32 | 11.70 | 31.02 | 3 |
| 13. | Mark | 18.26 | 20.23 | 38.49 | 8 |
| 14. | Jacob | 18.31 | 29.35 | 47.66 | 12 |
| 15. | Alan | 29.83 | 16.29 | 46.12 | 11 |
| 16. | Dean | 7.54 | 20.55 | 28.09 | 2 |
| Flight Pos | Pilot | 1st Drop | 2nd Drop | Total Distance | Placing |
| 1. | Andy | 3.80 | 2.74 | 6.54 | 1 |
| 2. | John | 30 | 30 | 60 | 16 |
| 3. | Frank | 21.63 | 16.33 | 37.96 | 7 |
| 4. | Dave | 20.60 | 25.90 | 46.50 | 11 |
| 5. | Rob | 19.46 | 10.7 | 30.16 | 4 |
| Pilot | 1st Drop | 2nd Drop | Total Distance | Placing | Wadsworth |
| Andy | 3.80 | 2.74 | 6.54 | 1 | 100 |
| Dicky | 9.18 | 7 | 16.18 | 2 | 94 |
| Dean | 7.54 | 20.55 | 28.09 | 3 | 88 |
| Rob | 19.46 | 10.7 | 30.16 | 4 | 81 |
| Daniel | 19.36 | 12.29 | 31.65 | 5 | 75 |
| Glynn | 30 | 4.77 | 34.77 | 6 | 69 |
| Frank | 21.63 | 16.33 | 37.96 | 7 | 63 |
| Mark | 18.26 | 20.23 | 38.49 | 8 | 56 |
| Brian | 13 | 30 | 43 | 9 | 50 |
| Alan | 29.83 | 16.29 | 46.12 | 10 | 44 |
| Dave | 19.32 | 11.70 | 31.02 | 11 | 38 |
| Jacob | 18.31 | 29.35 | 47.66 | 12 | 31 |
| Gordon | 30 | 30 | 60 | 16 | 6 |
| Graham | 30 | 30 | 60 | 16 | 6 |
| John | 30 | 30 | 60 | 16 | 6 |
| Kevin | 30 | 30 | 60 | 16 | 6 |