Another box rule (discussion)

[Daniel J. Hamlett]

I would have to agree with you.  I enjoy the challenge of being required 
to fly in the box, but at the same time I can understand a person being 
a little hesitant to get into pattern if they feel that the box that we 
fly in is out of there comfort range of what they are used to flying 
in.  If it was just a comfort thing, then it could be worked through.  
If it is a physical limitation i.e. they can't see the plane they are 
flying.  I think that we should offer some type of option for such a 
person.  What I don't know, but I think that we should offer something.  
How many people are not getting into pattern because of eye sight 
issues.  I know from personal experience that I could see my plane very 
well when I was flying sport.  Once I started flying pattern the guys at 
my field ( 4 current pattern guys one of which is the Dist. 1 Champ in 
intermediate in 04 ) said that I was flying in way too close.  If I flew 
out where they were telling me to fly I couldn't see what ming wing tips 
were doing or where they were.  I had to bite the bullet and go buy 
glasses that I really don't need for anything else.  So what about the 
people that couldn't run out and buy glasses.  What about the guys that 
flew pattern 10 years ago that want to get back in but can't see like 
they used to with our with out glasses ( no offense)?Should that be the 
only factor that keeps someone out of competing. 

I hope that this will not cause anyone to be offended, just my $.02 on a 
subject that I think should be looked into a little more.

Dan Hamlett
District 1
NSRCA#3814

BUDDYonRC at aol.com wrote:

>  
> There seems to be valid reasons to *not change* the present pattern box.
> There are also two seemingly valid questions / problems that the 
> present box arrangement presents.
> 1. Pilots flying optimum distance out increase the chance of mid air 
> collision.
> 2. Pilots who are somewhat vision limited who would prefer to fly 
> closer in.
> A possible solution would be to revise the box rules to allow a person 
> who in advance of his flight accepts a 2% total flight score downgrade 
> to fly in closer and violate the 60 degree box lines without further 
> downgrade.
> How about some comments and opinions and any other ideas which would 
> address these issues.
> Please don't boot me off of the list again I'm just trying to do my Job.
> Buddy

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