The Midrand Model Soarers Open, March 2005 -- Lionel Brink

This is not the official report, but rather my attempt at thanking everyone for such an enjoyable day.

The MMS Open was inaugurated on Sunday, 13 March with approx 20 participants from various clubs & provinces. We could not have asked for more perfect weather; thermals aplenty and even the birds were helping by pointing out bubbles that became "boomers". The 45 minute working time was generally relaxed & the 10 minute duration task did not constitute as much of a stretch as anticipated by those of us that had never attempted anything more than a 6 minute during a postal competition. As for landings, well let's just leave that out of the discussion for now.

Thanks to everyone for the amazingly camaraderie, friendly assistance, and good banter that we enjoyed throughout the day. I learnt so much just watching the experts making it look so easy, but realise the effort & dedication it takes to do so. To Mike, the CD, a colossal thanks for your passion for the sport & willingness to give up so much of your time to assist everyone else. Thanks to Ilma, the quick witted chef & chief photographer - who kept us going in body & soul for the day. Thanks to those who helped, including those running to fetch the winch lines, timing & even pointing out the good lift - for fellow competitors! Thanks to Mark for arranging this event, matrixing & providing the equipment for scoring. Thanks to MMS for making their field available & ensuring safe frequency control & flying throughout this event.

Finally, even a thanks, albeit rather small, to those devious individuals that came up with that landing triangle concept.

Kindest regards,

Lionel