[NSRCA-discussion] Pattern is for elitist snobs?

[John Pavlick]

Since we're trying to figure out what we need to change so that more people will fly Pattern, I'd like to share some ideas with everyone.

As far as I'm concerned, there is really nothing "wrong" with what we're doing. I don't think rule changes or easier schedules or anything like that will lure more people into flying Pattern. If you just admit that not everyone needs (or wants) to become a Pattern pilot, you'll be fine. The object is to find the people with good flying skills and a competitive spirit and expose them to Pattern. Here are some things that I've done that ACTUALLY WORK:

1. Go to the club field with a sport plane or a warbird (leave your Pattern planes home!) and have fun flying with the clubbies. Chances are you'll make some new friends. You can try to get them hooked on pattern later...

2. When you see someone struggling with a motor or having an obvious trim issue, offer to help. But not in the usual "Let me show you how it's done" manner. That creates resentment. Instead, say something like: "Wow, that's the same thing that happened to me! Wanna see how I fixed it?" Suddenly you're both on the same level. That's a better position to be in.

3. Go to non-Pattern type club events. A Fun Fly or even a Scale Fly-In is actually a good way to relax and have fun. That's what we're supposed to be doing with toy airplanes anyway. Usually you'll meet people who ask how you learned to fly so well. Of course you know how to answer that...

4. Become a club flight instructor. This is very rewarding and you can see who has the potential to fly Pattern before they get distracted by other interests.

5. Help out with a club event. Don't even fly. If you have to cook burgers, then do it. In return, ask them to help YOU hold a Pattern Primer.

OK, there are 5 things that almost anyone can do. I know, because I've done them all. Yeah it's kinda like "work" but it's not that bad. So far in the 3 years that I've been flying Pattern, I've gotten 3 more people to join us (all NSRCA members now). If I can do it, anyone can. The longest journey begins with the first step...

  
John Pavlick
http://www.idseng.com
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