Well, I guess I'm a rebel. I have the most fun flying at stunt contests! Just being around the great folks that show up to compete for a day or so is more fun than I can relate. The crazy things we pull on each other, the laughter and kidding around, the good-natured camaraderie, it's all wonderful fun to me. And, as Howard said earlier, the combat is also a blast. Even though I quit flying it a couple of years ago, I still yearn for the crazies that went on!
This is a great hobby/sport and everything I do with it is FUN-FUN-FUN!!!
Hi Will,
I have a
lot of FUN when I am at a meet, be it local or National. For the reasons you give of what occurs when I am not actually the one flying a model in an event.
The actual flight in a contest is not what meets my definition of "FUN". It is, however,
immensely "enjoyable". Competition is not now, nor was it ever,
FUN for me. It was always "enjoyable". I did it out of some inner need. To be the best at that activity that day. But even if I was accidentally the best that day, it wasn't "fun", it did make me feel good, though. Ego, maybe? probably, it can be a nasty thing. And usually is.
From Wikipedia: "The distinction between enjoyment and fun is difficult to articulate but real,[2] fun being a more spontaneous, playful, and active event." Competition, to me, is not a "spontaneous, playful" event. Competition is preparation, dedication, determination, and desire. So, to me, competition is not "FUN" but "enjoyment". Otherwise I would never have done anything competitive, and I'm sure my life would be greatly different today, if I was even still around!
Now being at a flying field with friends and trying to make up a maneuver that isn't done, or just "playing around", that's
fun. To each his own, and I know my personal background has a great influence on it.
Merry Christmas!
Bill