It’s been a very long wait since the last Get Into Aeros event in 2019; the 2020 event was lost to lockdown, and the 2021 one had to be significantly restructured to be run in a Covid-safe manner. But the organising team rose to the challenge, and on Saturday the 26^th of June, 10 young pilots arrived at Sleap to kick off the 2021 season with their first ever aerobatic flights.

Unfortunately, an occluded front had invited itself as well, delaying the start of the event by trapping 3 of our training aircraft in the south under low cloud. A truly authentic introduction to aerobatic competitions, we thought, and an opportunity to thoroughly brief our participants, then launch resident pilot Nick Wakefield to demonstrate some sequence flying.

By midday we had a full complement of aircraft, and the flying could begin. As always, our newbies impressed with how they applied themselves, and how quickly they picked up the club sequence – they all did themselves proud with their box performances after only 1 flight. Although the weather only improved as the day went on, the late start combined with an aircraft technical issue meant we had to abandon the second flights.

A huge congratulation to everyone who flew, but especially to the two that had to switch aircraft at late notice, including our gold medal winner! Good character was demonstrated in the face of adversity, friendships were made, and we hope to see you all back for more.

Sunday started with a forecast that looked challenging but flyable, and when the second group of 10 pilots arrived for their first taste of aerobatics, the cloud looked like it would lift enough to have a second great day. Unfortunately, it was not to be… a lucky few got a training flight in, but conditions got worse instead of better, and we ultimately had to make the decision to stop. We put up a fight, but the weather always wins.

A huge disappointment, especially to those who travelled so far to be there – good character was demonstrated once again, and we were impressed by this in lieu of any box flights. So it’s back to the planning team to get you all flying at some point, but you’ve given us all great hope for the future of the sport, so please keep persevering.

There are so many people to thank for making this event happen: our instructors, presenters, judges, everyone who worked behind the scenes on the planning effort, and Sleap’s Pegasus Café for providing what was described as “the best lunch we’ve ever had at a contest!”

To be continued…
Ruth Scott