Chris Cannon posted on June 03, 2011 11:48
IAC 3, (International Aerobatic Club, Chapter 3), Russell Regional Airport/Towers Field and the Greater Rome CVB welcome the South East Aerobatic Open to Russell Regional Airport/Towers Field. “The Open” began in 1970 and was hosted continuously at Tara Field outside of Atlanta. “After 41 years at Tara Field it was decided to bring it to Rome and Floyd County”, stated Ken Lumpkin, Contest Director. The competition experienced positive growth which consequently required a new host after outgrowing Tara. Lumpkin decided to test the air and venue by hosting a small contest in Fall of 2010, “a true success, the layout was conducive to the judging and layout for a much larger contest,” according to Lumpkin. Rome beat out Columbus, Americus, Evergreen AL, and Selma AL to garner the hosting opportunity.
Mike Mathews, Airport Manger states “We are expecting at least 30 pilots and will roll out the red carpet to be sure to keep the event. For us the bottom line is - we want the competition on a permanent basis!”
The event will bring in pilots from all over the South East, and further, gives them a chance to qualify for the national aerobatic event. State Mutual Stadium will host the Competition Banquet, Saturday June 4th. “ The CVB is excited anytime a spotlight is cast on the Russell Regional Airport. It is a jewel in our community and generates great publicity with outside interest and capital for our community.” Lisa Smith, Tourism Director for GRCVB.
The South East Aerobatic Open will include Primary, Sportsman, Intermediate, Advance and Unlimited Power Flights. The event is NOT labeled as an air show, it is a contest of talent and skill. The aircraft will fly in an imaginary box over the airport at a high altitude in order to conduct their maneuvers for points. The points are calculated and will be used for qualification purposes to move on to the nationals.
Practice starts Wednesday, June 1 in the morning and will continue through the day. Registration and practice will continue on Thursday, June 3rd , with Competition flights beginning Friday morning June 4th and continuing into Saturday June 4th. Sunday, June 5th has been set as the rain date.
The Civil Air Patrol which functions with an adult division for search and rescue and a youth education of aerospace programming, will be the food vendor for breakfast and lunch on Friday and Saturday.
The public is invited to attend this free competition as pilots try to qualify for Division Champion. What to know before you attend, bring a chair, sunscreen, plan to have breakfast or lunch, no pets or outside coolers allowed. Parking is free and there is no gate charge to view the competition.