Lomac offers superb flying action at show
The Lowveld Model Aircraft Club (Lomac) had its annual air show on August 1. And it was an absolute whopping success, not just judging by the numbers - about 2 000 people attended - running out of parking space and having to bus spectators from a distance - it certainly surprised the organisers.
With some 40 pilots, each with more than one model plane, the day offered a spectacular menu filled with different categories of planes each displaying a particular skill set from its pilot. And certainly, as I indicated in 2014, yet again confirming that this is not a sport for kids. It is expensive and demands a serious understanding of all the dynamics involved with flying. Because although these are models, it requires immense concentration and coordination skills to keep them in the air – let alone perform all those spectacular stunts and tricky manoeuvres.
The jets that were on display can reach speeds of up to 300km/h – they fly high and low which means that spectator and pilot safety is a high and non-negotiable priority for the organisers. The latter, among other elements, was of such high standard that the South African Model Aircraft Association (SAMAA) rated it as one of the best events ever and has indicated that it would like Lomac to host its annual national event/competition at the facility in Rocky Drift.
The national event hosts 10 main categories with a whole range of subcategories. This is certainly worth a high five for the local club which has been in existence for more than 50 years. A unique feature of this event is that the sponsors judge the various categories at the show and also present the prizes. Another item on the menu this year was a control-line flying demonstration which, according to Phillip Lewis is where many model airplane pilots started flying. A model is flown and controlled by a twin line from the plane to the pilot’s hand and it is not limited to level flying only – no sir. The pilot can perform a range of demanding manoeuvres.
And then there is, what is referred to as discus launch gliders. The pilot actually launches the glider by hand (not unlike throwing a discus) and then controls it via a radio-control unit. To start out, Phillip (who has been flying since he was 17) suggests that one buys a trainer aircraft. It is relatively inexpensive and fairly robust. Otherwise your “school fees” may prove to be quite discouraging even before you actually start with the hobby. Lomac does have a trainer and loads of expertise to help you on the way should you be interested or consider entering the sport.
This show ticked all the boxes – plenty and a constant stream of action on the runway and the air space above – awesome entertainment for the kids and a wonderful warm sunny Lowveld winter’s day. The perfect recipe for success which indeed it was. Can they top it in 2016? I believe they will, but I am not telling!
