[NSRCA-discussion] F3A is an AMA Class

[Earl Haury]

I will defend F3A from those that try to disparage my interest. 

To those that state F3A isn’t an AMA Class – look it up, specifically AMA Class 406. There are F3A rule modifications in the AMA rules that apply to AMA sanctioned 406 events (other than Team Selections) – one example is the noise limit. So there is precedent for modifying FAI rules to fit USA desires within AMA events. The “Masters is the AMA destination class” statement is supported by the lack of a requirement to move to 406 via the AMA point system. Probably not the way I’d do it, but I’m OK with it.

The NSRCA supports our AMA designated F3A Committee member to ensure our viewpoints are heard by FAI and we’ve been effective over the years. Tom supports a separate discussion list for F3A activities so that we don’t clog you’alls mailboxes with stuff of little or no interest to others (we do tend to be a quiet group though). Anyone wishing to develop F3A sequences is welcome to do so and submit them (via Derek) for consideration – it’s only a “them” thing because none of “us” offers up anything.

I’ve no issue with folks that wish to compete in any AMA class and help drive their sequence / rules to a comfortable and reasonable level. The people that fly Masters are the  ones that should decide their sequences and that discussion is certainly in progress. Folks that judge Masters or F3A would probably do a better job if the sequences were more similar – the current inclusion of modified P17 maneuvers in Masters doesn’t seem to have a benefit. 

Please just realize that most of us that choose to fly F3A aren’t in the “top 5%” (sure as blazes not me) and vying for a Team spot. We do it because we enjoy the challenge of taking on (sometimes crazy) difficult maneuvers thrown at us by the powers that be, rather than choosing maneuvers we’re comfortable with. (I’m not a fan of Unknowns – but they’re for the 5 percent.) I’ve been flying F3A (or trying to) for 39 years and have seen lots of changes, many of which were considered the “end of pattern” and than hasn’t happened. So, work within the system to effect changes relative to your game of interest, but please be considerate of the interests of others. 

Earl

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