F2B World Championships

I think I should mention a few points about my observations and comments on the WC. My original post was done after being awake for over 24 hours, about half of that being the drive home, and there was so much more to say but this old boy's brain just wasn't up to it.

As everyone should (and does) understand, it is exciting when a member from your nation wins and especially when it is a person that you consider a good friend. AND when it occurs after a 32 year span between titles! Being American, I do feel a sense of pride for what Bill, Robbie, and the team accomplished. It in no way diminishes the respect I established for the remainder of the competitors.

As for the other nationalities, since this is a world wide forum, I maybe didn't emphasis how much respect I have for ALL the competitors who were blessed to fly in the competition.
The fact than some of the guys in the lower half of the finishing order may not have exhibited a level of flying that wasn't on par with the "top dogs", in no way dimishes their efforts!
Many countries represented are much smaller than individual states in our country, and the economics, etc., that they overcome to fly in this great event shows a tremendous personal effort! I salute each and everyone that flew.

As to the individuals who competed, having a chance to talk with them and share a love for *stunt flying* cultural/language differences and all, they were basically with out exception outstanding persons who represented their Nations with exceptional class. Two "families" that comes instantly to mind are the Perrys from Canada, and the Beringers from France! Bruce Perry had to overcome some literally last second adversity in his final flight, and the Beringers were more than friendly and polite. These are just examples of the competition. Of course during the *heat of the battle* they were focused, determined, and at the peak of their competitive nature. That is to be expected,and is totally appropriate for World Class Competition. But after the rounds while eating, or just hanging out, they were true ladies and gentlemen.

It is an experience that I was blessed to observe, and will always remember. They may be "Just *toy* airplanes", but if you are invloved in this sport there is a kindred spirit that defies nationalities and world politics. That, in itself, is a great thing.

To Paul Van Dort: I wish you had been there! I have many things to thank you for and would have been honored to have done it in person!

To ALL the World of F2B: Your teams were first class!

I could literally write a book on my experiences of a few short days. Regardless of the fact of my own nation's success, this is an event where everyone is a WINNER in their own regard.

Thanks,
Bill <><

Very well said Bill. A lot of people forget the fact that for there to be "winners", there have to be losers. And, it is a lot harder to be a good loser than it is to be a good winner.
Although I did not get to go to the Worlds nor the Nationals this year I greatly appreciate those who did make it and my hat is off to ALL the competitors both local and foreign.

Congratulations Bill, Paul,Ted, and Rob.

Bigiron aka Marvin Denny

You may not know it, but most of those fliers get little or no help with the costs of travelling to a WC. It's huge to us, much worse for many others. Sometimes, a club will kick in a few $100, and/or their NAC may pay entry fees, but that's usually about it. Makes you wonder, doesn't it? Truth is, a lot of folks just like to travel, and having a lame excuse like flying toy airplanes makes it easier to justify. It shows a serious commitment, doesn't it? Steve

Very well said indeed Bill. Makes us all feel priviledged to be part of this great sport. Thanks for sharing your observations with us.

Well put. Bill. I am curious about how they got their models over here after hearing all the fuss earlier in the year about transporting them via aircraft. Diplomatic bag??

I wonder how many are staying for the Nationals? Should be interesting.