Yes the background story on Monty is he got to be the pilot he is all by himself... He is totally self taught, self coached (except once a year when he comes here). And he started about 6 years ago. Holy smokes? yeah at least.
He lives in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, a Danny Kaye magic word if you remember.... Prior to the US Nationals his only contest experience was the Praire Fire contest here in Edmonton, Alberta. Our mutual friend and an awesome stunt pilot in his own right, Larry Maltman, encouraged Monty to attend the Nats.
So the plan was hatched and the three of us decided to attend. I would deliver plane and equipment to Monty in Saskatoon, he would drive to Winnipeg to get Larry and they would drive to Muncie. I flew in. Monty's plane is very light at 56 - 57 oz's and is a version of SV lineage. He can build and he can fly.
His goal was to make the top 20, as you all know he made the goal. What some of you may not know is he also recieved the pachyderm award at the banquet. Seems Square loops are so necessary! Some anxious moments and some careful guidance and all was fine again with the world. Imagine where he would have placed had he recieved pattern points on the first flight of top 20?
Is he gonna be a force to be reckoned with? YES, and frankly he's getting very tough to stay ahead of!!! Thankfully, I'm motivated and was able to enjoy the benefits of our relationship.
Larry's input in our success cannot be overstated. He was the "team Manager" of the Canadian contingent this time. His cool head and excellent coaching lead to the our success. He always had the right comment at the right time and helped keep us cool and focused. He has resolved to attend the nats again with a PA plane on our next adventure to Muncie. He is a very fine modeler and is totally fired up watching Monty's success.
To say we had fun would be a giant understatement. We laughed, worked, ate, talked and dreamed about stunt for a week. What a week it was! So much fun to hang out with everyone and see their new planes and catch up on all the stuff that's happened since last time....
only 51 more weeks to go
Bruce
Topic: 2011 Nats People and Planes (Read 2359 times)