Slope MOMs Racing - Lets get this going!

[Wayne]

My best photo from the race:

What a great time.​

To all of you folks that bought a kit that still have not joined us, what the heck are you waiting for? Great group of pilots, some good close racing, I have to say, we had some really great heats, and the competition in the turns really reminded me of the ISR races. Awesome! These little planes pack a real punch and Thorton was giving us a perfect level of lift IMHO.

I have some video I'll try to edit together. For now some pictures.

Before the race. This picture was taken as our first pilots were about to take flight.

This photo was taken after the planes were recovered from the cliff. Not a great start, but the pilots were still smiling.

My first round of round was against Red, I figured he was going to dust me, luckily he had very little time on the model, so maybe I had a chance. I was feeling very confident with my plane setup and we had a good race, Red beat me, but for me not getting lapped by a pilot with Red's skills is a good finish.

I think it was my second round when I was in a 3 up race with Red and Roberto. (I was flying Red again just because of some of the carnage that already occured) We had a good clean start (I am not aware of anyone messing up the start on this day, A major improvement over the first race.) Roberto and Red are turning great laps, and I'm flying a little high to avoid the potential carnage. around half way into the race Red and Roberto have their first mid air. I thought, woohoo, I'm going to win this thing, I'm surprised to find that both pilots have recovered and are still racing. I figure I can fly my race, and I might just win this thing, I go into safety mode and let them have the stronger lift. Another lap or two and they mid air again, and somehow they are both still flying! I think I had passed them by this time, but those two are still racing.. I think they are, I'm just flying my race. I get a win simply from the other pilot carnage. I'll take it!

Roberto's planes after 2 mid airs in the same flight:

Red patching up his Slingshot:

Red was missing most of the leading edge of the right tip, it was just open structure when he landed. No idea how he kept it in the air. Since it was his only plane, he taped and glued and kept racing her!

Red's next round was against Ollie- Everyone thought this was going to be a freak show with Ollie easily taking the win, but Red's plane is still turning decent speed, sure it is doing weird stuff in every turn, but Red is in the good lift and Ollie is flying a little conservative probably thinking Red's plane was going to spin in sooner or later. Eventually Oliie realizes this isn't going to work and he starts flying in the line and at the end of the 9th lap they cross the finish line together, at this time Ollie take his race turn for the final lap, and Red announced he had miscounted and thought the race was over and had not made the final turn. Oh no! Had that been the final lap it would have been hard to call. So cool to watch.

Red and Ollie's race:

Lots of really close racing, lots of great piloting, and lots of fun. Thanks all!

 

[jure]

what a nice event, great report Wayne !
so sorry to have missed it, hopefully I may at least attend the next one.

 

[Wayne]

Future events -

Sounds like we have another event already planned for Thorton in September.

In October we tend to have an annual event out at Los Banos. I need to confirm they have opened the field back up after construction closures, but was thinking that might make for a fun Slingshot race. In Addition, maybe we can do something like the DreamFlight racing there?

For those that have not been to Banos, it is off the 5 in the central valley off a water reservoir. When the conditions hit right, the place can be amazing with lift EVERYWHERE, and every direction becomes flyable. When conditions are not good, we can still fly electrics there. It is very much a fun fly and I was thinking if we did some racing, we would probably set up off to the side or something so we do not block out the fun fly. It is a long drive, and I usually grab a hotel and fly all weekend. We usually grad dinner as a group Saturday night at one of the local restaurants. It is a good time. I'll give them a call and confirm they are open.

 

[Wayne]

Wayne please post this on your forum If you think it won’t cause too much trouble. - Konrad

Now that we have held our second event some things are starting to fall into place. Like 10 laps (20 legs) heats to allow for longer time on the course. Flagging and the race starts are much improved! I’m also seeing much better landings from almost everybody when flying at Thornton Beach.

But what I’d really like to do is thank Ollie and Rafael for the design and manufacturing work that went into get the Slingshot to being the racer we see today. Without the Slingshot we wouldn’t have been able to hold this entry level event this year. I’d also like to learn what were/are the major issues novice pilots are having with the Slingshot racing event

My understanding was that this event was to promote slope flying and racing. To my eye this means that everybody participating in this event is responsible in promoting these two activities. Reading the Aloft forum I need to thank MBR for finding what looks like the best race CG (57mm). I think Mark Allen is responsible for publishing the initial elevator setting at this race CG to be flat (down) with the bottom of the stab. (I also really like Mark’s ballast system) This is the kind of information that makes the initial flight a fun and productive affair. I’d like to see somebody that speaks Spektrum publish their initial program. (We see a lot of novice fliers with Spektrum radios). I’d also like to see what folks are doing to get the best servo resolution in their radio setup.

Now I said I thought that everybody participating should be promoting the event. Not just us experienced builders and fliers but that this includes the novice. It is the novice that actually has a lot more to offer in the way of direction for the event. It is the novice’s perspective that we need to actively focus on. Knowing what works for the novice and equally what doesn’t work is key to the long term viability of slope racing. I’ve spent many hours helping folks set up their Slingshot for racing. I’m a bit surprised to see so many of the same issues pop up in the practice sessions that should have been dealt with on the bench.

It is novice to slope racing that this event is aimed. I wonder why the forum doesn’t seem to offer a good set of instructions for the novice to follow. I’d like to see the novice pilot and builder post their builds and radio set up in the forums, if they have posting privileges (RCGroups and ALOFT’s forum). The issues we see in the forums, from the perspective of the novice, should help the more experienced offer relevant coaching. Hopefully before the novice is showing up at the slope or worse has smashed their Slingshot

It is the novice that is in the best position to direct what action are needed to encourage their involvement in this event and fine hobby. So please do your part to promote this event by sharing what you, the novice, are finding frustrating or is impeding your involvement.

 

[Wayne]

I think the group has been doing a great job of taking new slope racers under their wing and helping them out.

We could be doing a better job of sharing this information online as these same tuning processes we are teaching would benefit many pilots. But we haven't had many people asking for it.. So..

What I love about the Slingshot as an airframe, it allows people to learn on a plane they do not have a bunch of money invested into. The airframe rewards a perfect setup. We had some good racing Saturday! Loved when we had a good close race, bangin turns next to each other. Awsome!

 

[Doc James Hammond]

Hi Guys - here is my two-pennorth as we blimey Brits say: Please note I'm writing as a modeller/flyer and not a commercial model supplier.

With the help of Ollie, who did the basic, very capable Slingshot design, Aloft, who printed and made available the commercial version, MoM racing has begun. A couple of races have been held, at least one more is to come this year, and reports of great fun apart from the fragility of the models have been made. Printed models are fragile - but they are also not expensive, so it is what it is.

So, I was wondering about a 60" version of the Slingshot or something like that to enjoy a bit better handling on a beefier, larger model, and maybe a bit more survivability? - but having said that, perhaps there are size constraints as to the fragility of a printed model. I'm not that familiar. I guess one good thing about printed model ODR races is that everyone is the same as regards the model itself, same problems/same advantages. Air is more or less the same thickness at ground level where we fly, so the bigger the model, the better it flies.

Speaking of larger models, it's a fact that they fly much better and are less influenced by the ambient slope conditions - backside rotors are often mentioned, for example, compared to the smaller planes. I suppose what many people are REALLY afraid of is the dreaded mid-air, and there are plenty of those in the ODP (One-Design Printed) races so far. Though I wonder if there are not just as many mid-airs on a typical fine day on a good slope with a lot of sports models in the air. I wonder, for example, about the Sunset Beach event: how many collisions actually occurred. Of course, the majority wouldn't have involved printed models, were mostly foamies, and so many (Including my Toccata) may have survived if not intact, then repairable.

But actually, what Ollie, Red and I have been discussing for many months is essentially MoM RACING. Not necessarily printed model MoM, although it's a really great start and a great way to test the waters for those who like the idea and the all-out excitement of man against man. I keep thinking maybe it's time for 60" as it's large enough to be great fun with good speeds. Even though it's still a step down from the old and great open MoM races of the past, it may be a way back to them.

Maybe there could be a couple of actual 60" races, such as they have at the Slot? But with what? Actualy I'm sure many people have an old 60 model collecting dust or in need of repair, hiding somewhere in their shops or garages. Maybe what is needed may be a few of the old skool 'short' kits: Glass fuselage, veneered foam wings and balsa tail feathers, plus the hardware. Maybe that option would be attractive. I know that we have been giving a lot of thought to this possibility. This option would probably represent a far more basic but rugged option compared to most mouldies.

Wayne did do a bit of research on this and posted here:

Thread 'Possible race planes for fun MOM series racing'

Jul 15, 2026

I thought it might be a good idea to split this conversation off to its own topic as it could be available to other groups wanting to do something similar.

One model mentioned was the Spin:

https://alofthobbies.com/collections/slope/products/spin-1-5m-sailplane

For now I would suggest that all of the Blejzyk models should be considered unavailable due to supply issues.

A composite option would be the X-ray:

https://alofthobbies.com/products/xray-glider?_pos=1&_sid=34b62e87f&_ss=r

This is a very nice flying model and has proven to be a very robust model. The prototype...

• Wayne
• Replies: 42
• Forum: Gliders

• 

Watch this space.

Philosophically, maybe we have changed. Years ago, we HAD to design and make our own models because there was nothing competitive available, but now it seems those days are long gone. I'm not sure if there is ANYONE designing and making their own 3M open racing models any more. Maybe there is no need. Maybe old tatty F3f models, larger span scale models or second-hand buys would be OK, but I sure would love to see a modern self-designed, self-made dedicated MoM racer.

Anyway, the more MoM racing there is of any type, the more fun can be had.

Cheers,

Doc.

 

[OldElectric]

How does one register for the next (Sept 12) MoM event?

 

[OribaSJ88]

How does one register for the next (Sept 12) MoM event?

Contest is open to all with a Slingshot. Just showing up is all that's needed .

 

[Wayne]

Yep - Just show up. We all missed you at the last race.

I think we will have a few more folks at the next race.

I'd like to keep the races going, get our money and times worth out of these models. I never wanted to keep the racing at Thorton, but is has been a good training ground.

 

[OribaSJ88]

Speaking of larger models, it's a fact that they fly much better and are less influenced by the ambient slope conditions - backside rotors are often mentioned, for example, compared to the smaller planes. I suppose what many people are REALLY afraid of is the dreaded mid-air, and there are plenty of those in the ODP (One-Design Printed) races so far. Though I wonder if there are not just as many mid-airs on a typical fine day on a good slope with a lot of sports models in the air. I wonder, for example, about the Sunset Beach event: how many collisions actually occurred. Of course, the majority wouldn't have involved printed models, were mostly foamies, and so many (Including my Toccata) may have survived if not intact, then repairable.

.....

Philosophically, maybe we have changed. Years ago, we HAD to design and make our own models because there was nothing competitive available, but now it seems those days are long gone. I'm not sure if there is ANYONE designing and making their own 3M open racing models any more. Maybe there is no need. Maybe old tatty F3f models, larger span scale models or second-hand buys would be OK, but I sure would love to see a modern self-designed, self-made dedicated MoM racer.

Anyway, the more MoM racing there is of any type, the more fun can be had.

Cheers,

Doc.

Doc, in my playing around with larger models, the added weight of being bigger just exacerbates the problems with my way of designing for 3D printing. The way I do the fuselage needs a rethink. A pod & carbon fiber boom plus the use of some fiberglass reinforcement are the likely ways out of some of the issues. Those improvements would benefit the current design as well. But, none of those changes would have gotten us to competition as quickly as we have managed. I'd like to hope we get a few more contests of racing from the current concept. That said, I would love to see a more robust design for the sake of all involved--in whatever form that may take. "Inexpensive", off-the-shelf & readily available options seem rather limited currently. Inexpensive takes on different meanings depending on who we're talking about .

On the subject of people designing their own F3F models, I have seen a number of "personal" efforts by some teams both in the UK and Europe (France & Germany). A few start and remain garage projects. However, many also seem to be done with the intent of making them commercially available, often, but not always, in partnership with an enterprise which has experience with production of composite models. The amount of design and simulation that people are putting into these efforts are unimaginable compared to our "home-brew" designs from the 1980s and 1990s. Even at 2500 euros for many of the F3F models, that seems like a bit of a bargain compared to all the work involved. I'm sure that none of this is news to you, Doc. I do remember that back in prehistoric times of the '80s and '90s, many of the competitive pattern pilots didn't build their own models. They emphasized practice, practice, practice. Makes sense. But, yeah, times are really different. Few have the time, skills or inclination to design their own models. Were it not for inexpensive & powerful 3D modeling tools (in my case a free version of Fusion 360) and cheap 3D printers, I wouldn't be able to make my own designs. Many of the home-brew designs that I see today in one way or another involve 3D printing.

Ollie

 

[Wayne]

We should probably take the "next plane" discussion over to the other thread for that subject:

Thread 'Possible race planes for fun MOM series racing'

Jul 15, 2026

I thought it might be a good idea to split this conversation off to its own topic as it could be available to other groups wanting to do something similar.

One model mentioned was the Spin:

https://alofthobbies.com/collections/slope/products/spin-1-5m-sailplane

For now I would suggest that all of the Blejzyk models should be considered unavailable due to supply issues.

A composite option would be the X-ray:

https://alofthobbies.com/products/xray-glider?_pos=1&_sid=34b62e87f&_ss=r

This is a very nice flying model and has proven to be a very robust model. The prototype...

• Wayne
• Replies: 42
• Forum: Gliders

• 

I'll reply there.

 

[Doc James Hammond]

Doc, in my playing around with larger models, the added weight of being bigger just exacerbates the problems with my way of designing for 3D printing. The way I do the fuselage needs a rethink. A pod & carbon fiber boom plus the use of some fiberglass reinforcement are the likely ways out of some of the issues. Those improvements would benefit the current design as well. But, none of those changes would have gotten us to competition as quickly as we have managed. I'd like to hope we get a few more contests of racing from the current concept. That said, I would love to see a more robust design for the sake of all involved--in whatever form that may take. "Inexpensive", off-the-shelf & readily available options seem rather limited currently. Inexpensive takes on different meanings depending on who we're talking about .

On the subject of people designing their own F3F models, I have seen a number of "personal" efforts by some teams both in the UK and Europe (France & Germany). A few start and remain garage projects. However, many also seem to be done with the intent of making them commercially available, often, but not always, in partnership with an enterprise which has experience with production of composite models. The amount of design and simulation that people are putting into these efforts are unimaginable compared to our "home-brew" designs from the 1980s and 1990s. Even at 2500 euros for many of the F3F models, that seems like a bit of a bargain compared to all the work involved. I'm sure that none of this is news to you, Doc. I do remember that back in prehistoric times of the '80s and '90s, many of the competitive pattern pilots didn't build their own models. They emphasized practice, practice, practice. Makes sense. But, yeah, times are really different. Few have the time, skills or inclination to design their own models. Were it not for inexpensive & powerful 3D modeling tools (in my case a free version of Fusion 360) and cheap 3D printers, I wouldn't be able to make my own designs. Many of the home-brew designs that I see today in one way or another involve 3D printing.

Ollie

Doc, in my playing around with larger models, the added weight of being bigger just exacerbates the problems with my way of designing for 3D printing. The way I do the fuselage needs a rethink. A pod & carbon fiber boom plus the use of some fiberglass reinforcement are the likely ways out of some of the issues. Those improvements would benefit the current design as well. But, none of those changes would have gotten us to competition as quickly as we have managed. I'd like to hope we get a few more contests of racing from the current concept. That said, I would love to see a more robust design for the sake of all involved--in whatever form that may take. "Inexpensive", off-the-shelf & readily available options seem rather limited currently. Inexpensive takes on different meanings depending on who we're talking about .

Hi Ollie,
On the models, all of what you say is true, and your extended and I know sometimes frustrating efforts to get people actually up there flying MoM races have been really good and actually highly successful. Aloft's jumping into the fray with actual models from your designs cemented the effort. It's begun, and I hope it continues, but the biggest problem is that although it's such a good start, it is also inevitably doomed unless someone finds a way to make printed odels that don't re-kit as soon as they receive any impact. Unless, of course, people think that a smaller than 60" printed model could only be an actual racing class. That would depend pretty much on the availability of models. I have doubt there.

It's time to go bigger, and maybe printing is not the way to go.

On the subject of people designing their own F3F models, I have seen a number of "personal" efforts by some teams both in the UK and Europe (France & Germany). A few start and remain garage projects. However, many also seem to be done with the intent of making them commercially available, often, but not always, in partnership with an enterprise which has experience with production of composite models. The amount of design and simulation that people are putting into these efforts are unimaginable compared to our "home-brew" designs from the 1980s and 1990s. Even at 2500 euros for many of the F3F models, that seems like a bit of a bargain compared to all the work involved. I'm sure that none of this is news to you, Doc.

Frankly, there are more F3f designs available than there are buyers. I did a survey 4 years ago and uncovered 24 different designs that were advertised at that time, plus, as you say, a few garage racers. The fact is, though, F3f is fashionable. If you don't have a model that is in fashion, then you are nowhere. This is why I call my Spada a "Gofast Racer", NOT an F3f model. Sure, you could fly it in F3f, itd fast and it fits all the rules, but as an affordable 3M general flyer, it sits in a better place, I think. As to the model cost, the Eastern Euro guys charge high prices because they can, not because they have to cover costs.

I do remember that back in prehistoric times of the '80s and '90s, many of the competitive pattern pilots didn't build their own models. They emphasized practice, practice, practice. Makes sense. But, yeah, times are really different. Few have the time, skills or inclination to design their own models.

God, those pattern models are ugly!

Were it not for inexpensive & powerful 3D modeling tools (in my case a free version of Fusion 360) and cheap 3D printers, I wouldn't be able to make my own designs. Many of the home-brew designs that I see today in one way or another involve 3D printing.

Ollie

I think 3-D printing is fabulous for many reasons - in its correct position, and I'm pretty sure right now that position is not to make printed models above 60" span - so apart from printing parts its self-limiting.

As I mentioned its time to go bigger. Imagine a 60" Slingshot, maybe with a few small mods gained from experience, but made for glass/foam balsa or even an al moulded model - It would dance a jig over the smaller printed version.

But its all super god fun - let's talk more, do more!

Doc.

 

[smirkracing2024]

Wayne please post this on your forum If you think it won’t cause too much trouble. - Konrad

Now that we have held our second event some things are starting to fall into place. Like 10 laps (20 legs) heats to allow for longer time on the course. Flagging and the race starts are much improved! I’m also seeing much better landings from almost everybody when flying at Thornton Beach.

But what I’d really like to do is thank Ollie and Rafael for the design and manufacturing work that went into get the Slingshot to being the racer we see today. Without the Slingshot we wouldn’t have been able to hold this entry level event this year. I’d also like to learn what were/are the major issues novice pilots are having with the Slingshot racing event

My understanding was that this event was to promote slope flying and racing. To my eye this means that everybody participating in this event is responsible in promoting these two activities. Reading the Aloft forum I need to thank MBR for finding what looks like the best race CG (57mm). I think Mark Allen is responsible for publishing the initial elevator setting at this race CG to be flat (down) with the bottom of the stab. (I also really like Mark’s ballast system) This is the kind of information that makes the initial flight a fun and productive affair. I’d like to see somebody that speaks Spektrum publish their initial program. (We see a lot of novice fliers with Spektrum radios). I’d also like to see what folks are doing to get the best servo resolution in their radio setup.

Now I said I thought that everybody participating should be promoting the event. Not just us experienced builders and fliers but that this includes the novice. It is the novice that actually has a lot more to offer in the way of direction for the event. It is the novice’s perspective that we need to actively focus on. Knowing what works for the novice and equally what doesn’t work is key to the long term viability of slope racing. I’ve spent many hours helping folks set up their Slingshot for racing. I’m a bit surprised to see so many of the same issues pop up in the practice sessions that should have been dealt with on the bench.

It is novice to slope racing that this event is aimed. I wonder why the forum doesn’t seem to offer a good set of instructions for the novice to follow. I’d like to see the novice pilot and builder post their builds and radio set up in the forums, if they have posting privileges (RCGroups and ALOFT’s forum). The issues we see in the forums, from the perspective of the novice, should help the more experienced offer relevant coaching. Hopefully before the novice is showing up at the slope or worse has smashed their Slingshot

It is the novice that is in the best position to direct what action are needed to encourage their involvement in this event and fine hobby. So please do your part to promote this event by sharing what you, the novice, are finding frustrating or is impeding your involvement.

You've asked for the perspective of a novice, so here goes.

I've been flying powered planes since Jan 2024. I'd never done any meaningful slope soaring before the first Thornton outing in Jul 2026. Now that I've tasted MoM racing, I love it, and intend to continue participating as much as possible.

The partnership of Ollie, Rafael, and Wayne/Aloft gets 100% of the credit for bringing me into slope soaring and also racing. Here are what I consider to be the most important factors in terms of helping a new guy discover this awesome part of the hobby:

1. People: you are an incredibly friendly group of people who are very welcoming towards novices. I've truly enjoyed getting to know you and look forward to lots more. None of this would ever have worked without that. Beyond the obviously critical contributions of designing the plane, printing it, packaging it, selling it, etc, there still needs to be a community of friendly pilots who make the experience joyful for new guys. You did that in spades.

2. Price Point: the price of entry was unbelievably low. At $75, I did not have to think hard about the decision to get involved, didn't have to discuss it with my wife, didn't have to check my bank account balance before buying. In fact, $75 was SO appealing that I didn't buy just 1 kit, I bought 4, and I gave two of them to friends, both of whom you have now met. At $75, I didn't need even need to ask my friends in advance, I just bought the kits, handed them over, and told my friends to get on the forum and get involved. They both did. So the price point enabled not one, but three people to get involved. Now that I'm hooked, I'm certainly willing to spend lots more, but I would not have gotten to this point if the initial price of entry hadn't been so low.

3. Package: setting aside that the Slingshot is a great little airplane, the more important issue for me was that Aloft offered it as a complete kit (I even got the servos from Aloft, so there was really nothing left for me to provide except spray paint and solder for nose weight). I can't overemphasize the importance of a offering a complete, easy-to-assemble kit for novices like me. It is safe to say I would not have gotten involved if Aloft hadn't sold a complete kit. Most novices want to be told *exactly* what to do. We don't need a lot of choices.

4. Product: I like the Slingshot. It is compact, easy to transport, easy to carry down to the beach, etc. Can it be improved? Sure - anything can be improved. But for me it delivered the right outcome (even though I have yet to complete a full race day - that still takes more skill, effort, and some good luck). I don't think novices need a bigger/better/faster airframe. Having an advanced series is probably the place for that. I think a common airframe, even down to a common set-up, really makes the racing much more novice friendly.

5. Place: I appreciated going back to same location repeatedly. Repetition is novice-friendly. Let me offer an anecdote to help you appreciate what it is like to be a novice. Both times I went Thornton, I had problems. The first time, I wasn't sure where to park (I didn't know about the stables). I waited a LONG time for a parking spot to open up in that tiny lot, and finally gave up and parked illegally (which was a little stressful because I was worried I might be towed). The second time I went to Thornton, I had learned about the stables, but I got lost on the way down to the beach, and I spent about 20 min tromping around with my planes in my hand getting to the right spot. I am now confident that on my third outing, I'll finally arrive without issues. That sounds quite stupid when I write it all out, but that's what it is like to be a novice. So, I am happy to go to the same place over and over.

I think the all that's necessary to continue to grow this event is to post in the forums more broadly with more pictures and stories (like Wayne's race-day report) likely on RCGroups as that has a bigger community of people who are not necessarily familiar with slope soaring or racing. I will do my part and chime in with stories of how thrilling it is to race MoM. As for promoting the event, I've already gotten two points on the scoreboard, and I'll keep sharing how fun this is to see how many more I can get to join.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make this so much fun!!

Smirk

 

[Roberto Zillante]

My best photo from the race:
View attachment 27109

What a great time.​

To all of you folks that bought a kit that still have not joined us, what the heck are you waiting for? Great group of pilots, some good close racing, I have to say, we had some really great heats, and the competition in the turns really reminded me of the ISR races. Awesome! These little planes pack a real punch and Thorton was giving us a perfect level of lift IMHO.

I have some video I'll try to edit together. For now some pictures.

Before the race. This picture was taken as our first pilots were about to take flight.
View attachment 27110

This photo was taken after the planes were recovered from the cliff. Not a great start, but the pilots were still smiling.
View attachment 27111
View attachment 27112View attachment 27113View attachment 27114

My first round of round was against Red, I figured he was going to dust me, luckily he had very little time on the model, so maybe I had a chance. I was feeling very confident with my plane setup and we had a good race, Red beat me, but for me not getting lapped by a pilot with Red's skills is a good finish.

I think it was my second round when I was in a 3 up race with Red and Roberto. (I was flying Red again just because of some of the carnage that already occured) We had a good clean start (I am not aware of anyone messing up the start on this day, A major improvement over the first race.) Roberto and Red are turning great laps, and I'm flying a little high to avoid the potential carnage. around half way into the race Red and Roberto have their first mid air. I thought, woohoo, I'm going to win this thing, I'm surprised to find that both pilots have recovered and are still racing. I figure I can fly my race, and I might just win this thing, I go into safety mode and let them have the stronger lift. Another lap or two and they mid air again, and somehow they are both still flying! I think I had passed them by this time, but those two are still racing.. I think they are, I'm just flying my race. I get a win simply from the other pilot carnage. I'll take it!

Roberto's planes after 2 mid airs in the same flight:
View attachment 27115
Red patching up his Slingshot:
View attachment 27116

Red was missing most of the leading edge of the right tip, it was just open structure when he landed. No idea how he kept it in the air. Since it was his only plane, he taped and glued and kept racing her!

Red's next round was against Ollie- Everyone thought this was going to be a freak show with Ollie easily taking the win, but Red's plane is still turning decent speed, sure it is doing weird stuff in every turn, but Red is in the good lift and Ollie is flying a little conservative probably thinking Red's plane was going to spin in sooner or later. Eventually Oliie realizes this isn't going to work and he starts flying in the line and at the end of the 9th lap they cross the finish line together, at this time Ollie take his race turn for the final lap, and Red announced he had miscounted and thought the race was over and had not made the final turn. Oh no! Had that been the final lap it would have been hard to call. So cool to watch.

Red and Ollie's race:
View attachment 27117

Lots of really close racing, lots of great piloting, and lots of fun. Thanks all!

View attachment 27118

A true phoenix ‍ will always come back to life! Ready for the next competition! It was really fun that day, thanks Ollie @OribaSJ88 and Aloft @Wayne to make it happen

 

[Doc James Hammond]

Hey Guys! I think many of you gentlemen are now participating or thinking of participating in the Printed MoM races, with one more coming up.

Personaly I think this could be a great class. But let's not confuse it: It's not 60", it's not balsa/glass/foam/veneer or anything like that - it's PRINTED.

At this stage, the PRINTED class probably does not need any set down rules other than printed construction and safety checks, etc. The size is pretty much limited at this point by the manufacturing method. The models are available from the good folks at Aloft and hopefully will be for the foreseeable future, plus you can design and print your own or share designs and prints, etc. - so this is definitely not an ODR situation.

So speaking of which, although I'm not going to fly, as I'd have a 10,000-mile commute, and I don't have a printer in Taiwan, I can't help thinking about the designs. Presently, there is the excellent Slingshot - by far the most available and most flown design by Ollie Northrup, and I have heard tell of a couple more different designs by other people. But...I think everyone would agree that a few more designs might get more people involved and, therefore, more fun to be had, so I set my thinking cap on.

Now...being a designer myself, I have several small designs under my belt in the 60" region but moulded not printed, but we are not talking about a moulded model competition, not yet a 60" competition...but if it were me, knowing how hard it is to design a small model that flies well, and taking into account that one of the problems with printed models is available wing area/wing loading due to the inherent fragility of the manufacturing method, and durability too, then design-wise I'd tend to think differently...

I'd immediately go to a PRINTED FLYING WING train of thought. Especially a flying wing with a"printed-in" (can I say that?) or somehow integrated carbon tube leading edge and other lightweight reinforcements. Technically, the flying wing is the fastest form of flying machine there is. It can be far less prone to damage due to the lack of tail feathers and other projections, etc., and with some thought, should be able to be designed perhaps a little more robustly than the present conventional sloper design types.

It's even possible to make a Prandtl type as per the Angel Wing Designs FVT3, using Bell-shaped lift distribution and the potential advantage that it has.

FVT3 Prandtl Wing

RC Model aircraft Kits Sub 250g Balsa Kits

www.angelwingdesigns.co.uk

Food for thought, Gentlemen - food for thought...

Doc.

 

[smirkracing2024]

Hey Guys! I think many of you gentlemen are now participating or thinking of participating in the Printed MoM races, with one more coming up.

Personaly I think this could be a great class. But let's not confuse it: It's not 60", it's not balsa/glass/foam/veneer or anything like that - it's PRINTED.

At this stage, the PRINTED class probably does not need any set down rules other than printed construction and safety checks, etc. The size is pretty much limited at this point by the manufacturing method. The models are available from the good folks at Aloft and hopefully will be for the foreseeable future, plus you can design and print your own or share designs and prints, etc. - so this is definitely not an ODR situation.

So speaking of which, although I'm not going to fly, as I'd have a 10,000-mile commute, and I don't have a printer in Taiwan, I can't help thinking about the designs. Presently, there is the excellent Slingshot - by far the most available and most flown design by Ollie Northrup, and I have heard tell of a couple more different designs by other people. But...I think everyone would agree that a few more designs might get more people involved and, therefore, more fun to be had, so I set my thinking cap on.

Now...being a designer myself, I have several small designs under my belt in the 60" region but moulded not printed, but we are not talking about a moulded model competition, not yet a 60" competition...but if it were me, knowing how hard it is to design a small model that flies well, and taking into account that one of the problems with printed models is available wing area/wing loading due to the inherent fragility of the manufacturing method, and durability too, then design-wise I'd tend to think differently...

I'd immediately go to a PRINTED FLYING WING train of thought. Especially a flying wing with a"printed-in" (can I say that?) or somehow integrated carbon tube leading edge and other lightweight reinforcements. Technically, the flying wing is the fastest form of flying machine there is. It can be far less prone to damage due to the lack of tail feathers and other projections, etc., and with some thought, should be able to be designed perhaps a little more robustly than the present conventional sloper design types.

It's even possible to make a Prandtl type as per the Angel Wing Designs FVT3, using Bell-shaped lift distribution and the potential advantage that it has.

FVT3 Prandtl Wing

RC Model aircraft Kits Sub 250g Balsa Kits

www.angelwingdesigns.co.uk

Food for thought, Gentlemen - food for thought...

Doc.



View attachment 27146

I like this idea a lot. The wing is even simpler to build than a traditional airplane. Just two servos.

Might be a tiny bit twitchy in pitch but that just means taking extra care in setting the CG at exactly the right spot.

I have a trek Alula which is more or less a wing but also has a vertical fin. It is sensitive to CG but with a 3d printed design you could even design small bays for tire weights.

If you set out to design a racer with adjustability and reliability as goals at the outset you can probably end up with a very solid result. Just a few small tweaks, like screw-together wing panels vs glue-together, would also make it easy to replace sections that got damaged. And with a simpler design price might fall even more and pilots could just bring two wings to their races.

Now that I think about screw-together wings I realize that some of my biggest and most expensive composite planes aren’t even screw together - they are TAPE together. All the wing panels on my 4m Explorer are taped together.

You could make an entire plane that goes together with something like 4 strips of tape…

Seems pretty interesting.

 

[Doc James Hammond]

I like this idea a lot. The wing is even simpler to build than a traditional airplane. Just two servos.

Might be a tiny bit twitchy in pitch but that just means taking extra care in setting the CG at exactly the right spot.

I have a trek Alula which is more or less a wing but also has a vertical fin. It is sensitive to CG but with a 3d printed design you could even design small bays for tire weights.

If you set out to design a racer with adjustability and reliability as goals at the outset you can probably end up with a very solid result. Just a few small tweaks, like screw-together wing panels vs glue-together, would also make it easy to replace sections that got damaged. And with a simpler design price might fall even more and pilots could just bring two wings to their races.

Now that I think about screw-together wings I realize that some of my biggest and most expensive composite planes aren’t even screw together - they are TAPE together. All the wing panels on my 4m Explorer are taped together.

You could make an entire plane that goes together with something like 4 strips of tape…

Seems pretty interesting.

Actually, any wing is naturally sensitive in pitch, mostly depending on the aspect ratio, chord and general planform, but if well designed still has a CG plus/minus area where it will fly very well, so that gives a chance for ballast. The design could have a "stinger" tail that has a mechanical fuse (intentional weak point), and yes, as you say, just two servos and held together with electrical tape.

Added to that, almost all wings can be "mushed in" (deep stalled) for landings and don't need a fast landing approach at all.

I think it would be a bit faster to print, too, maybe. There are a couple of wing addicts on this forum...

What have I done...?

Who is going to put pen to paper?

Doc.

 

[zeo0nie1]

I don't have a printer in Taiwan

I literally just today saw a Bambu Labs stall at 光華商場 lol. Get one!

 

[Doc James Hammond]

Hi guys. As you may or may not know, the emergence of the Printie was really just to promote MoM racing - ANY MoM racing - by a few diehards such as Ollie, Red and myself who miss the fun and excitement that ONLY MoM brings.

MoM:

The idea was to get some form of man-on-man racing going quickly, hopefully to promote the racing idea and lead to other classes. So the idea was to start small and inexpensive, to let people have a dabble to see if they were interested. And that, with the great efforts of Ollie, Red, and the Aloft crew, was exactly what happened. Unfortunately, I can only contribute enthusiasm from afar othereise I promise you I'd be up to my elbows in it.

The future of Printie MoM?

One more Printie race is scheduled this year. But will this class continue into 2027?

This competition, like any other, depends entirely on the availability of models to fly. Will there be planes available for the new season? Will the Aloft crew print more?

Will there be any new designs? Is anybody working on any? Ollie has suggested a reference design to use as a base for designing new models by individuals or groups. Is it needed? Will someone do this?

Buy, fit, and fly?

It's great to have the Slingshot commercially available, but what if the supply dries up for one reason or another? Aloft, unusually for most model concerns, has traditionally, since its start-up, been a "Modeller Oriented" rather than out-and-out commercially operated concern, which is really great for the modeller. But there comes a time when the bank manager might not agree, so that strictly commercial decisions need to be made. Will Aloft continue to make and sell MoM Printies - Slingshot or other? Do they have other designs up their sleeves - only Wayne can answer that.

Non- commercial...teams?

Other than what may be commercially available, I see this as a kind of potential team event where two or three people, at least one of whom has a printer, might throw some ideas together and come up with their own model. Copies of that plane might be sold on the side to cover whatever expenses are incurred and also to make more models available if needed/wanted. The team camaraderie sometimes adds to the competitive fun and pools resources.

Und der Nurflügel?

I wonder if some of the flying wing enthusiasts might get into it. Several of the OD flying wings I have seen on this forum fit the bill with only a few mods. As I have mentioned, the flying wing is compact, has less vulnerable projections like tailplanes, etc and is not only simpler in construction, but also potentially faster and likely to be more durable than conventional empennage models. The fin can be designed to break off easily in the event of a spin landing. And on those landings, many if not most of the flying wing designs can be made to deep stall and 'mush in' in for a gentle pancake arrival - much safer, especially when thinking about a conventional Printie with no flaps slamming in.

So will it continue? Will there be more models? Will there be different models? Would you prefer a different or an alternative racing class, such as (Step by step) 60", where any construction material - including printing - might be used?

Printies are Printies but...?

People tell me that there are not many 60" models readily available, true, but heck, there are a hell of a lot more models or part such as glass fuselages, than say when I was doing MoM ("Pylon" in the UK) in the early/mid '80's. What would happen if a cheap and aerodynamically fast hybrid kit were utilised on the market? Glass fuselage, foam-veneered wings, balsa tails? Yes, this would not be a Printie class, but it might be an awful lot of inexpensive fun.

What think you?

Doc.

 

[Chris]

I think it is important to keep in mind that the "Printie" was not meant to be a MoM RULE, It was a quick and cheap way to get people interested.
I am not trying to sound negative, disrespectful, or rude here, I just think that if anyone wants to promote and start another class of Mom racing. with whatever airframe they want to use, they should do so.
Wayne tried to get the old ISR going again and didn't get enough interest.
Then, Wayne threw out this idea, being quick and easy, and got a lot of local interest, so he kept on it. However, obviously, he will not always have the kind of time that is needed to keep things moving.
The GREAT thing about these "Printies" is that they are pretty much disposable to the beginner racer. You do not need to invest hundreds, or more, into an airframe that has a good chance of totaled in the first few races. Once the pilot is comfortable with the racing they can invest more if they choose to.
To me, the future of MoM racing looks like this;
If you want to have a set of races, you and some friends buy the same airframes (no matter what it is) and go to the hill and have fun. Invite other friends and people that may be interested. It doesn't have to be a super giant organized event at first. Things grow easier if they are started small in my experience.