by George Dawe
August 22, 1999 saw the Palomar R/C Flyers hold its second Combat event of the year--the Battle of Wewak (In memory of General George Kenney's August 17, 1943 raid on Wewak, New Guinea). The day was hazy, hot and humid, the action was fast furious and intense. The 2105 event witnessed ten "kills" and only four mid-airs, while the Open combat event experienced twelve kills and one mid-air! (Editors Note: a Kill is a steamer cut)
In the 2105 event, the experienced and treacherous Jerry Sheldon placed first earning 550 points in four rounds with three kills to his credit. Scott Bilinski finished a close second earning 520 points and three kills, while Kevin Crandell finished third with 342 points and one kill.
The quality of workmanship in the 2105 event was phenomenal and many spectators commented on the craftsmanship and flying skill of all the pilots. I was amazed to see the spectator attendance continue to grow. While I used to think our spectators were prospective combat pilots, I now believe that Combat has its own fans!
The Open combat event has always been popular in our club. However, I now take note that more people fly in the Open event than in the 2105--not that we do not have plenty of 2105 pilots! First place went to Doug Albert with 820 points and five kills. Doug became the first "Ace in a Day" and will receive a special award for his efforts! Second place went to Jim Maddocks with 520 points and two kills. Jim had some outstanding near-misses and I expect to see him take it all next time. I was lucky enough to manage a third place with two kills.
With the number of entrants, we are finding the need to run a more efficient contest. To that end, we need to thank the RCCA for its contribution of scoring sheets and heat matrixes. We also need to thank Pica Enterprizes for its generous donation of quality "new wing fully sheeted-P-51s". While these prizes arrived late, each person who placed second or third in either the Open or 2105 combat of this event should contact me for a box top (only if you did not already receive an airplane kit at the event as a prize). I will also be distributing Picas 50% off coupon good toward any of Pica's new sheeted wing combat aircraft to all pilots who participated in the "Raid on Wawak". See me for details at our next meeting.
I want thank all who served as pilot judges for this contest. I especially want to thank Bob Lang who, once again served as announcer, scorer and referee! I also want to thank Dave Truax who has, from the very beginning, served as our Line Marshal. Dave had to hand out a flightline violation and make many difficult calls in the interest of safety and fairness. Both Bob and Dave had the tough jobs and Combat appreciates their efforts.
Until next time, be aggressive but please fly safely!
George Dawe