[RCSE] TD" contest thoughts

[Maurice Podder]

Is it possible we are trying to design contests for the needs of a very few who no longer feel challenge by current formats (because their abilities have far surpass the normal flyer)?  Instead of developing whole new concepts why not go to a true Thermal Duration contest.  Shorten the line and maintain 3, 5 & 7 minute duration or if there is few enough contestants lengthen the time.  I feel landing skags are important as they help prevent servo damage, protect the fuse on landing fields that are not grass and give added landing safety to pilots in emergency situations.  In full size glider competition runways are used not spots.  If the pilot lands outside or off the runway he receives no flight points.  I believe the original reason for spot landings was to improve safety by improving the pilots ability to land in a safe area.  A thermal contest should be won because some one is able to find a thermal not because they are able to hit a spot.  But a person that can not land safely is a hazard to the hobby and others.  So there must be a landing requirement in every contest format to encourage safety.   Keep it simple and make it easy for newcomers to become involved if you want to survive. Just my thoughts Maurice