Aircraft Navigators Bucking Oppressive Weather Situations
Flying High in Graben-Neudorf: A Model Aircraft Extravaganza
For over half a century, the model aircraft group (MFG) Graben-Neudorf has been hosting its annual flying extravaganza, drawing crowds from miles around. This year, the buzzing event took place over the Pentecost weekend.
Approximately 60 daredevil pilots from 25 diverse clubs descended upon the club grounds at Melfortweg for two action-packed days. Hailing from southern Germany and Switzerland, these thrill-seekers showcased their incredible skills, showcasing nearly a hundred models to the awe-struck spectators.
Rain and Wind, No Dampener on Spirits
Though the weather proved fickle, occasionally turning sour, it failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the pilots or guests. Brief rain showers temporarily halted the flying show, but guests weren't left in a lurch. They found solace in the spacious clubhouse and numerous covered seating areas, where they could savor the delectable offerings of the club without a care.
When the sun did peek through the clouds, the pilots faced challenging wind gusts, testing their mettle. The only casualty? A detached canopy.
Jürgen Fuchs, MFG chairman, expressed his satisfaction with the flying days, despite reporting higher attendance in previous years. Model aircraft enthusiasts, a close-knit community, revel in sharing their passion and exchanging ideas at such events.
Rafael, a helicopter maestro from Böblingen, showcases his breathtaking stunts at every gathering. A Brazilian transplant in Germany, he's been participating in flying days across the region for the past four years. He can't stop praising the 50 by 200-meter flight and landing area in Graben-Neudorf, dubbing it "the best spot around."
First-timers Manuel Schmidt and Frank Köhler, hailing from Schopfheim and Oestrich-Winkel respectively, joined forces for their flying debut at the event. Though they'd crossed paths before, they hadn't had the chance to train together. Equipped with equally sized models, Edge 540 and Laser 200, boasting a wingspan of 2.60 meters, the duo put on a dazzling formation flying show for the cheering crowd. The impressive turnout left them beaming with pride, with Schmidt exclaiming, "Incredible that so many people turn up, even in less-than-ideal weather!"
A Passion for the Skies
Chairman Fuchs believes that model aircraft building serves as a microcosm of the broader world of aviation, encompassing everything from gliders to jets and motor planes. He's an avid fan of parachutists and model gliders and is already looking forward to the next flying days, slated for this summer.
In addition to the Graben-Neudorf event, there are still three more jubilee events on the horizon, including one in Hallerndorf in Upper Franconia. The Graben-Neudorf club has fostered strong relationships with this club for decades.
For the latest details on model aircraft group activities in Graben-Neudorf, be sure to check local community boards, municipal websites, or regional club directories. The region is known for an active sailing community[4], but specific information about model aircraft groups isn't immediately available. Keep your eyes to the skies, and you won't miss the action!
Despite the diverse range of activities available in the region, such as sailing, the allure of model aircraft sports continues to draw participants from far and wide. In spite of the inclement weather, enthusiasts like Manuel Schmidt and Frank Köhler remained undeterred, showcasing their shared passion for other sports during the Graben-Neudorf flying extravaganza.
