[TheTank]

Article by Bob "Biff" Sadler
For those of you who have attended any of our events, we're sure
you've felt what we have become known for; fun,fellowship and
hospitality. Recently the host group gathered to discuss the direction
we're headed as a club. What we all agree'd on was that we all enjoy
relaxed flying and sharing Triple Tree with friends old and new the
most. That sparked some pretty frank discussions.

After careful consideration and much soul searching, we've come to
the conclusion that we will no longer host the Don Lowe Masters. One of
the toughest things we all share is not continuing something that is
successful because it really isn't what an organization does best. We
are beyond proud of how this contest evolved and how it affected the
industry. It was never meant to be a replacement for the TOC, but it did
bring some great things to the table; mandatory quiet set ups, a venue
for the world's best pilots, a high profile contest in a low stress
environment and most of all a chance for us to work as a team in a realm
that was far different from what we normally do.

It was certainly bittersweet coming to grips that there won't be
another Don Lowe Masters, but we did breathe a collective sigh when we
realized we were getting back to the basics and simply having fun with
almost no stress. We talked about our other contests and as a group
decided to really push the Youth Masters. Giving those young men and
women the chance to fly world class planes with world class coaches is
really cool for all of us. Teaching young people to make school job #1
and making sure they all understand that being a good sport is more
important than winning is something we all enjoy sharing. We will
continue this event with all of the club members support.

We need to thank Don and Clara Lowe, Mike Gregory, Warren Thomas, Tom
Miller, Tony Russo, Robert Shaw, Horizon Hobby/JR, all of the judges,
Joe Naller's and everyone who worked their rears off to make this event
a reality. Also each and every pilot who ever competed. You guys treated
us to a world class airshow every time!

We hope everyone understands this tough decision as it was made being
completely honest with ourselves. We're very excited about getting back
to the basics of having fun in a reduced stress environment. We welcome
your comments and look forward to seeing you at Triple Tree soon to
share some fun, fellowship and hospitality!

Your flying buddies,

The Confederate Air Farce