Decline of pattern / Translation

[Keith Black]

> How do we help translate the pattern experience to non pattern flyers to get them to at least give it a shot?

I think you just did. 

Gray Fowler told me pretty much the same thing you've said regarding the fellowship and I found that very appealing. In addition he let me know that most beginning sportsman fliers are all over the sky at their first contests and I shouldn't worry about not being good enough. That and a little bit of urging got me to my first contest.

I personally was quite worried about flying in front of judges, but looked at it as a personal challenge to overcome. When I flew my first round without crashing I was delighted.

Of course you have to realize that people get the same type of fellowship and camaraderie from other activities and groups as well. Also, it takes a certain type of personality to be afraid of something and consider that a *reason* to do it. Therefore my reasons for jumping in won't apply to everyone. 

So next time someone asks you about pattern flying don't forget to tell them about the fellowship, I'm proof that's a persuasive part of the equation.

Keith Black
 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: WHIP23 at aol.com 
  To: discussion at nsrca.org 
  Sent: Friday, October 17, 2003 12:11 PM
  Subject: Re: Decline of pattern / Translation


  In a message dated 10/17/03 6:09:37 AM Pacific Daylight Time, aabdu at sbcglobal.net writes:


    I don't want to get anything started, but I had a thought inspired from an off list conversation with a pattern buddy.
      
    We go to pattern competitions and most of the time we love it. I have had great pattern weekends in Lancaster, Oh. in a nearly constant downpour and realized that the flying and competition are only half the story. What we experience at a contest does not translate well to sport pilots. I know, at least for me, that when I tell sport flyers about contests we talk about the planes and the manuevers. Unfortunately the friendships made, the sportsmanship, the camaraderie, the fellowships, and the sense of accomplishment, just do not translate well to people who have not experienced it. I always struggle when I'm asked, often, what you get for winning. They never quite understand that the trophy is only half the story.
      
    So the $50,000 question is: How do we help translate the pattern experience to non pattern flyers to get them to at least give it a shot?
      
    Just a few thoughts.
    Anthony




  Just smile a lot :-)  Some will understand (a few), most will not.

  Bob 
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