2006 Trans-Tasman Pattern Comp
By Ross (Browney) Brown
It was the Kiwi's turn to host the Trans Tasman. The dae: March 10-12th. The NZRCAA had approached Matamata-Piako Model Aero Club with a view to hosting the event. Upon receiving confirmation that the site could be used, preparations began for what turned out to be the best Trans Tasman ever.
For months behind the scenes, Bogan, Ted (John Rodgers), myself, Balderick and Peter Rumble put in many hours of work to ensure the event would run smoothly.
Thursday saw the site being prepared with Marquees / Toilets / Flag Poles and the competition flying strip being setup. We are flying 2 flight lines so a lot of effort was made to ensure the site poles were positioned correctly. By the end of the day, the site looked a treat. Peter Rumble, ably assisted by Peter Chapski and other members of the Matamata club had put up the Marquee, a special food tent called the 'Road Kill Cafe' (which became a huge success and was well patronised for three days) and a camouflage net in front of the Marquee. Not forgetting the Black Stump which had 'this side' and 'the other side' signs on it. Yep you guessed it .... "no flying this side of the black stump'. So the scene was set.
Friday, the Aussies and Kiwis were there for practice day. All models were weighed and measured (they must be under 5kg and less than 2 meters in length and width). By the end of the day, everyone gathered at the Matamata Gliding Clubrooms for the official welcome, Pilots Draw for the order of flight and a Judging Brief given by Chief Judge "Mike Johnson" from NZ.
Sat dawned and everyone was at the field. Expectations were high but we knew it would be close. The Teams gathered and the National Anthems were played and the Flags from each Country raised. After that .... you could have heard a pin drop. The weather was excellent and a large crowd had gathered to watch the events unfold. By the end of the day .... OH SO CLOSE!! That night we all went to Morrinsville for a superb dinner / function. There the results were announced. The Aussies had the Trans Tasman 18336pts to the Kiwi's 18125. Sunday was for individual honours so all was not lost.
On Sunday morning, the weather was not good with rain being the order for the morning. But by mid morning, the sun was out and flying continued.
Prize giving took place late afternoon. The Trophy was presented and the good news was that Frazer Briggs took overall honours winning the event (infact he won every round)
The Australians were full of commendations for a fantastic event. Emails have continued since then still praising the Kiwi's for a great time.
There are so many people to thank. Rather than name people and forget someone .... Thankyou to all who helped. It was superb.
Till next time .... Go the Kiwi's!
