"F2C"
International Racing Class

Racing type competition takes many forms. Some require that a given amount of fuel is carried, and some require a mandatory number of fuelling stops.

Internationally, F2C is also known as FAI Team Race. This is the Formula 1 of control line team racing and requires immense dedication by the team as well as finely honed skills.

Three teams fly a race together in one circle. The team who has finished 100 laps first is the winner. The limited tank volume of 7cc allows for only about 35 laps. So pit stops are required. This is a challenge for the mechanic to catch the model, refill the tank, start the engine, and re-launch the airplane as fast as possible. Models are going over 200 km/h, so both members of the team should have lightening reflexes. After several qualification rounds the final is flown over 200 laps.
 

Racing events involve the flying of two or more airplanes together in the same circle. The idea, of course, is to complete a given number of laps before ones' opponents do. Racing events usually involves a minimum number of pit stops, where the planes are landed, refuelled, restarted and relaunched by a second team member (mechanic).

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CLASS F2C - TEAM RACING MODEL AIRCRAFT

A team racing event is a contest during which eliminating races are followed by semi-finals races and a final race, in which three model aircraft participate simultaneously in each race, flying around the same circuit, each of them being entered by one team consisting of one pilot and one mechanic. In exceptional cases, a race may be run with only two teams.

A race is run over a set number of laps corresponding to the distance to be covered with at least one landing for refuelling. The time taken by each model aircraft to cover that distance after the starting signal is registered. Team classification will follow the process indicated in 4.3.10.

The eliminating races and the semi-finals races are run over 100 laps, corresponding to 10 kilometres. The final race is run over 200 laps, corresponding to 20 km.

During the race the pilots remain in the centre of the circuit. Their only function is to control the model aircraft. The mechanics are placed outside the flight circle, as defined in paragraph 4.3.2. Their function is to start and adjust the motor and to refuel when the model aircraft is on the ground, and generally, to deal with the different operations that enable the model aircraft to race. The motor must be started by flicking the propeller by hand.

During a race, the mechanics must wear a safety helmet, with a chinstrap, strong enough to withstand the impact of a flying team racing model aircraft.

Circle to be used by the mechanics: 19,6 m radius. This is called the flight circle, and is divided into six equal 60 degree sectors. At each sector a starting and refuelling area, one meter in length, shall be marked on the outside of the flight circle and be known as the "pitting area".

Circle at 19.1 m radius shall be marked with a broken line. It indicates the point beyond which the pitman is not permitted to reach to retrieve a model. This is called the safety circle.

Circle to be used by the pilots: radius 3 metres. This is called the centre circle. The centre of this circle shall be marked with a white spot of 0,3 m diameter.

Circle at 2m radius, and known as the inner circle, shall be marked with a broken line in a contrasting colour.

Definition of a Team Racing Model Aircraft

Model aircraft in which the propulsion energy is provided by a piston motor(s) and in which lift is obtained by aerodynamic forces acting on the supporting surfaces which must remain fixed in flight except for control surfaces. The model aircraft must be of a semi-scale type and its general lines must be similar to those of a full-size aircraft.

Maximum swept volume of motor(s) : 2,5 cm3
The maximum exhaust outlet area is 60 mm2 at the cylinder liner projected exhaust outlet or crankcase exhaust outlet. If a silencer is used the measurement is taken at the exhaust outlet of the silencer. The piston face at the exhaust outlet shall not be visible from the exterior of the model aircraft when side or front exhaust engines are used.

Minimum dimensions of the fuselage at the pilot's location: height: 100 mm; width: 50 mm; cross-sectional area: 39 cm2 - (wing fillets shall not be included in the fuselage cross-sectional area).

The model aircraft must carry a scale pilot head with minimum dimensions: height: 20 mm; length: 14 mm; width: 14 mm.

Maximum fuel permitted: 7 cm3. Only one tank is allowed, to contain fuel and oil for lubrication.

The motor(s) must be entirely enclosed including the cylinder head and the body of the carburettor (except the opening of the induction throat). The fairing or additional extensions to the motor shall be permitted to be exposed as long as they conform to the natural shape of the fuselage and do not mar the semi-scale appearance of the model aircraft. The only parts permitted to protrude from the fuselage are those to be manipulated during the operations of starting the motor, regulating the mixture, plugs, advance control, compression control, needle valves, tank fillers, etc. If a silencer is used, it may be fixed outside the fuselage.

Openings for the entry and exit of air, exhaust, etc. may be provided for proper functioning of the motor(s).

A cockpit or cabin with transparent windshield giving direct visibility forward must be provided to house the scale model aircraft pilot head which shall be clearly and fully visible.

The landing gear must be arranged to permit normal take-of and landing. It may be retractable during flight but must return to its extended position before landing.

The model aircraft must remain in a correct state according to 4.3.4 (a) - (n) throughout the full race, otherwise it will be disqualified.

Fuel tank, tubing and any associated filling valves or shut-off units must be accessible and capable of being measured accurately in order to check the total capacity as a unit. If the organisers do not consider the system to be accessible or accurately measurable, then the team will be disqualified.

The model aircraft must be equipped with an effective engine-stopping device for enabling the pilot to terminate the engine run before the fuel tank is completely empty.

Line Length: The radius of the flight circle is 15,92 m. It is measured from the axis of the control handle to the axis of the propeller for a single motor model aircraft and to the axis of symmetry for a multimotor model aircraft.

Control System: Two control lines must be used. If constructed of single steel wire each, these must be of 0,30 mm minimum diameter with a minus tolerance of 0,011 mm allowed. If stranded line construction is used, these shall have a minimum of three strands and all strands shall be of equal diameter and the stranded combination shall have a minimum width of 0,34 mm with no minus tolerance allowed. In all cases the lines shall be measured using a suitable instrument with measuring surface diameters of 5 mm minimum and 8 mm maximum. Before every race a load test shall be applied to the assembled control lines and the model aircraft in flying order equal to 30 times the gravity force, to a maximum of pull 140 N. The control handle must be built so that the distance between the axis of the handle and the points of flexibility of the two cables does not exceed 40 mm. No intentional twisting and/or linking of the two lines together shall be permitted between the point of exit of the model aircraft and a point 300 mm from the handle. The use of flexible grouper(s) attached to the wing tip and extending a maximum of 2 cm is permitted.

Fuel Tanks: The fuel tank capacity is checked through the use of an accurate system by visual examination of the volume of the fuel put into the tank and pipes. Control is to be made before the contest and may be made after each race in addition to a verification after the final race.

If the engine has an integral head or extremely tight fitted piston liner assembly, the entrant must provide tooling to allow the piston connecting rod & shaft assembly to be rotated through 360 degrees. A dummy cylinder would be ideal.

Three competing teams (in exceptions only two) will fly simultaneously in each race after having been drawn for order. Qualifying races with less than 3 teams will be put at the end of the draw, in order to allow a three-team races with teams which have been granted an attempt.

The draw is organised in such a way that, when possible, only one team of any nation may participate in an eliminating race or semi-final race.

When it is not possible to organise a reflight for a team which has been granted an attempt, the F2C panel of judges will ask for volunteers (from different countries in the case of World Championships and Continental Championships) to fill the qualifying race. The F2C panel of judges will organise an appropriate draw for the race among the volunteers and the team with the attempt. If there are no volunteers, the team will be allowed to fly alone to complete their qualifying reflight during the same round.

The teams may be allowed to run their motors just before entering the circle under the organiser's supervision so the running does not interfere with the starting procedure of a race. Mechanics are not allowed to walk with a running engine.

A pitting area (4.3.2.(a)) is occupied by each of the model aircraft which are to participate in a race. The model aircraft of the team designated first during the draw occupies the place chosen by that team. The other teams choose one of the remaining free pitting areas in order of the draw. The chosen pitting areas are considered occupied until the race is finished.

For the final race, the choice of the pitting areas shall be according to the results in the semi-finals. The team with the fastest time chooses first, the team with the second fastest time chooses next, etc. In case of a tie the teams' second fastest times in the semi-finals will decide the order of choice.

After entry to the circuit, it is forbidden to start a motor before the first signal has been given by the Circle Marshal, unless allowed by the Circle-Marshal.

Three timekeepers are assigned to each team. They stand outside the flight circle, near the pitting area of the model aircraft that they control. They are in charge of the timekeeping and lap counting for their particular team.

A first signal given by the Circle Marshal authorises the mechanics to proceed with the warming up to the motor(s), during 90 seconds. A second signal (visual and acoustic) announces the end of the warming up period and orders the mechanics to stop motors.

A period of 30 seconds is allowed for final preparations (filling up the tanks) and the Circle Marshal announces the last five seconds by reverse counting.

The starting signal is given by the Circle Marshal through a visual signal (flag) and a sound signal. For the last 3 seconds of the countdown and at the starting signal the mechanics must be standing erect close to their model aircraft and the pilots must be crouching on the border of the centre circle, with one hand touching the ground and with their control handles as close to the ground as defined by the F2C panel of judges. The starting signal must be "sharp" to enable accurate timing.

Model aircraft must fly at a normal height of between two and three metres, except for overtaking, taking off or landing.

Pilots must keep their controlling hand and the model aircraft on a plane perpendicular to a line joining their shoulders and passing through the centre line of their body, pilots must also keep their controlling hand on the vertical line between the middle of the chest and the top of the forehead, except when overtaking, taking off and landing when an exception of three laps is allowed.

Overtaking must be done by overflying. The model aircraft is not in any case allowed to fly over six metres height when overtaking. The pilot being overtaken must on no account carry out any manoeuvre to impede the overtaking competitor and must leave space for the overtaking pilot when the overtaking is finished.

The model aircraft is allowed to fly a maximum of two laps without the motor running.

The model aircraft must touch the ground with its motor stopped before the mechanic is allowed to catch it.

After the mechanic has caught the model aircraft, he must go to the nearest free pitting area from the point at which the model aircraft was stopped. A pitting area is occupied if a mechanic is standing at such an area, even if his team's model aircraft is still in the air.

After the mechanic has caught the model aircraft, but only then, the pilot is allowed to put one foot outside the centre circle.

During the refuelling and the restart of the motor, and until the time when he releases the model aircraft, the mechanic must keep the model aircraft in contact with the ground by at least one point and with the centre line outside the flight circle. During that time the pilot must be crouching or sitting inside the centre circle. He keeps one hand on the ground and his handle and his lines as close to the ground as defined by the F2C panel of judges until the model aircraft starts again.

The race ends when the number of laps completing the required distance has been covered by all the competing model aircraft or, when the official time limit has been reached, which is fixed at 10 minutes for an eliminating race or a semi-final race and at 15 minutes for the final race.

When the model aircraft has finished the race or when it cannot continue after a stop, its pilot must sit down or crouch outside the centre circle as long as the other competitors are still engaged in the race, unless the Circle Marshal allows him to leave the circle earlier.

Any team in an eliminating race or a semi-final race which has been interrupted through an obstruction or collision for which it was not responsible shall be granted an attempt.

In a final race which has been interrupted through an obstruction or collision before any of the participants has completed 100 laps the final shall be stopped and all competitors, except any who have at the point of stoppage of the race been disqualified, shall be granted an attempt.

If, before 50 laps of an eliminating race or a semi-final race have been completed by any of the teams who started the race, only one team remains in the running and flying alone, the race will be declared void and considered an attempt for the remaining team. A team which has been granted an attempt is allowed to participate in another race.

Warnings - Eliminations
At each warning the chief judge shall notify the team manager concerned so that, in turn, he may convey the reason of the warning to the mechanic. In the event of any serious breach of the rules, the F2C panel of judges may eliminate the team from the race.

A TEAM SHALL BE WARNED:

If a pilot interferes with or obstructs another pilot either by his conduct in the circle (for example by raising the handle above his head during take-off), or by a manoeuvre of his model aircraft preventing another model aircraft from flying or landing normally.

If a pilot, instead of walking around the centre, stands in the same place or walks backwards or continuously keeps the centre spot of the circle between him and the model aircraft.

If a pilot applies physical effort to increase the speed of his model aircraft during the official flight.

If, during the start of the race or during the pit stops, one hand is not on the ground, the control handle, the lines and the model aircraft are not as close to the ground as defined by the F2C panel of judges and/or the centre line of the model aircraft is inside the flight circle.

If the pilot steps outside the centre circle before the mechanic has taken hold of the landing model aircraft, and/or the pilot does not act in accordance with rule 4.3.7.i) and m).

If the mechanic steps into the flight circle (with either foot) or reaches further than the safety circle (line) painted 0.5m into the flight circle.

If the pilot whose model aircraft is to be overtaken carries out any manoeuvres to impede the overtaking competitor.

If jettisoning occurs or if the model aircraft is not in the condition as stated in 4.3.4.a). to l).

If the model aircraft is recovered with the motor running or prior to touch down with the motor stopped.

If, after its model aircraft have been processed, the competing team has used parts or elements not checked during the control; if the team has modified its model aircraft(s) by changing the characteristics or specifications imposed by the rules this may lead to the application of penalties as stated in the General Section of the Sporting Code.

If the team has accumulated three warnable offences during the eliminating or semi-final race (100 laps).

Each competing team must take part in at least one eliminating race to qualify for the semi-finals. The contests will be organised on three eliminating races and if there are no semi-finalists then all teams are allowed four eliminating races.

The number of teams qualifying for the semi-finals will depend upon the total number of teams entered in the competition. Each qualifying team may take part in two semi-final races.

The 6, 9 or 12 teams which register the 6, 9 or 12 best times respectively during the eliminating races qualify for the semi-finals.

There is a tie between some teams when their best times in any single eliminating race are equal and also between their second best (and so forth in case of three flights). If there still exists a tie between some teams, new eliminating race(s) will be organised between these teams until an adequate number of teams is qualified. In that case, departure will be made by an individual draw.

This system for the elimination of ties will only be enforced if more the number of semi-finalists (6, 9 or 12, depending on the total number of teams entered in the competition) qualify for the semi-finals.

The three teams having registered the three best times during the semi-finals qualify for the final race. In the case that no semi-final flights have taken place, the three teams having registered the three best times during the eliminating races qualify for the final race.

All semi-final races will take place between three teams. Where this cannot be achieved either by withdrawal or in re-flights, then the number will be made up by bringing forward the tenth placed team (seventh or thirteenth in case of 6 or 12 semi-finalists) and so on as necessary. Those teams will not be granted an attempt but any recorded flight(s) shall be eligible to qualify for the final race.

In case of a tie amongst the semi-finalists during the semi-finals, the regulations (b), (c) and (d) will be applied, based on the semi-final results, the number 6, 9 or 12 being reduced to three.

The competing teams which have participated in the final race will be placed at the head of the classification, only taking into account the times of flights during the final race, after checking tank capacity and the general characteristics of the model aircraft.

The teams which have participated in the semi-finals will be placed next in order of classification, only taking into account the times during the semi-finals. All teams not participating in the semi-finals will be classified according to their best time in any single eliminating race. Classification of any team that has not completed any race within the official time limit but was not disqualified, shall be ranked according to the number of laps completed in the best race.

If more than one team is disqualified in the final race, they are placed in the order of the number of laps completed. A disqualified team is always placed after any team that has retired without a disqualification.

Note : The F2C panel of judges' decision must be communicated to the lap counters to ascertain the number of "legal" laps.

A specific junior final will be flown if, at least, three junior teams have recorded a time after the eliminating races.

The result of this junior final will be taken into account only for the specific junior classification, and will not change the general placing.

International Team Classification

International team classification is established by adding the numerical position achieved by each individual team. The lowest team is ranked first, etc. with complete three-team teams ahead of two-team teams which in turn are ranked ahead of single team entries. In case of a team tie, the best individual placing decides.

Three timekeepers, equipped with electronic stopwatches registering at least 1/100th second, with a timing limit of minimum of 15 minutes will be allotted to each team. The stopwatches may be replaced or complemented by a computerised timing system of equal or better accuracy.

The time retained is the average of the registered time, made up to the next upper 1/10th second. A maximum tolerance of 0,18 seconds is allowed between watches. Any single watch exceeding this tolerance shall not be counted in the average.

The F2C panel of judges is responsible for observing the conduct of each team during the race. Teams will be informed of any offence by a combination of visual and loudspeaker verbal warnings. After a maximum of three offences a team will be eliminated from an eliminating or semi-final race. In the final a team will be eliminated after a maximum of four offences.

Warning and cancellation are notified to each team by means of three coloured lights:

Green light - First warning (first offence)
Amber light - Second warning (renewal of the first offence or a new one)
Red light –Third warning (renewal of previous offences or a new one)

For the final only (200 laps), renewal of previous offences for the fourth time or a new offence a team shall be disqualified by the judges verbally announcing “Colour - fourth offence. Disqualified. Land your model immediately”.

In addition, a second set of lights, one coloured for each team colour, will be provided. Upon the issuance of the fourth warning in a final race, the appropriate light for the disqualified team will be displayed.

A time penalty of 5 seconds shall be given to a team starting the engine(s) during the countdown before the starting signal.

In the final, a time penalty of 5 seconds shall be given to a team with the third warnable offences.

"Swooper"
Australian design

At the end of a Nationals, the Advertiser Trophy for Class B was flown with the top teams from all States competing. It was the highlight of a Nats!

Classic B is also currently flown in the United States and Canada although the engine rules are slightly different over there. British Barton B racing is also very similar except for the engine rules. This event is now all the rage in England with participation exceeding everyone’s expectations.

There are many reasons why Classic B enjoys its popularity. Probably first is the ease of flying. These bigger racers with powerful 5cc glow engines handle the wind much better than smaller A Class models. Having bigger wheels, they take off better on long grass and flying on longer 60’ lines means the pilots have it easier in the middle.

Suitable engines are readily available. The range of OS, FP, Thunder Tiger, Brodak and Norvel plain bearing .25’s are the engines of choice. The rules allow modifications.

The huge choice of models to build is another attraction of Classic B. You can design your own or there is a long list of available plans that date from to the early 50’s to the present day. The top designs come from Australia, America and England.

The classic era from the sixties arguably produced the best looking team racers of all time. These superb models are still flying today. You will see them race whenever a Classic B event is on your local control line contest calendar.

Flushed with the outstanding success of the new Vintage A racing class, a small group of Victorian enthusiasts felt the time was right to re-introduce Class B team race based on the halcyon days of the sixties. So Classic B was born in Australia with five teams rolling up for the first ‘modern day’ race at Knox on February 7th, 1993.

Since that memorable day, the Class has gone from strength to strength and is now flown in all states. Numbers are now rivalling popular racing events like Vintage A, F2C and Goodyear at major meets.

Classic B is based on Class B team racing that has been flown competitively worldwide since the early 1950’s. Model specifications have changed very little since them. In the 1960’s it had a tremendous following in Australia with huge entry numbers.

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CLASSIC B TEAM RACE
(As per MAAA CLASSIC B TEAM RACE)

REGULATIONS & RULES for AUSTRALIA for year 2000 onwards (Based on 1965 USA Rules)

OBJECTIVE. It is the purpose of team racing to fly semi-scale realistic airplanes in direct competition through a series of heat races and a final.

Original model designs that can be documented to have been designed, constructed and actually flown in competition prior to January 1, 1966 are eligible to compete in this event. Any other model can be built, but must conform to all the specifications of the 1965 rules.

Engine shall be as listed below. It shall be completely cowled with only glow plug, needle valve stem, cut-off lever, (if fitted) fill-vent tubes, or exhaust permitted to protrude through the cowling. An air intake & small access hole for choking is permissible.

Allowable engines: Any engine (max. .30 cid) manufactured for commercial sales prior to January 1, 1961. Any “modern” (max. .30 cid) plain bearing engine. Any of the following modern ball race engines are allowed:
OS FX .25
GMS .25
Enya SS.25 BB (diesel or glow)
Thunder Tiger PRO 25 BB
Rothwell R320BR
Irvine .25
ASP .25

Glowplug engines in the above list of modern ball race engines must use a 1/4 “ x 32TPI standard thread glow plug. No Nelson plugs, Turbo plugs or button heads are permitted in the modern ball race glowplug engines listed above. No tuned pipes are allowed. No metal engine mounting pans are permitted.
Propellers must be wood or commercially available glass composite (eg APC). All carbon fibre or glass fibre construction not permitted.

Model shall have a cockpit or cabin containing a dummy pilot’s head with both being in proportion to the model. The dummy pilot must have direct forward vision to the outside of the model. The minimum height of the fuselage, including the canopy/cockpit profile, shall be 3-3/4” and the minimum fuselage width shall be 2”, both height and width to be measured at the longitudinal position where the dummy pilot’s head is located. Model shall have a minimum effective wing area of 125 square inches.

Model landing gear shall be of the two wheel, side-by-side type. The minimum wheel diameter is two inches (50mm sizes are acceptable) with a 1/16th (1.5mm) negative tolerance.

Fuel used will be the contestant’s choice. Any substance banned by the MAAA will not be permitted.

Fuel tank, including filler line and fuel line from tank to needle valve, shall hold no more than 30 cubic centimetres. Fuel systems shall be subject to measurement at any time. Refueling shall be by squeeze bottle only. No multifunction valves may be used. The overflow can be either a pipe or a schraeder valve. Engine shutoffs are recommended but are not compulsory. If fitted they must not be used in flight during a race. The penalty for this is 30 seconds added to the race time. Shutoffs may be used during the warm up and after completion of race.

Model shall have the contestants AUS number on top of a wing panel.

Strengthening is permitted, including the use of glass fibre for covering. The use of any carbon fibre or kevlar is not permitted.

Team Racers shall not be acceptable if they are pod-and-boom, flush cockpit, fibreglass or carbon fibre shell, single wheel, or flying wing designs.

Line length, measured from centre line of the model to face of hand grip of control handle, must not be less than 18.3m, or longer than 18.45m.

Two line systems are required and each line shall have a minimum diameter of .015”. No internal line hook-ups are allowed.

The lines and model control mechanism shall withstand a 20G pull test at the handle.

The following changes in field layout and racing safety requirements are based on the FAI Sporting Code for F2C Team Racing. Dimensions, figures and methods stated here must always be in agreement with the current FAI Sporting Code in the future.

Pilots must stay near the centre of a 3metre radius “centre” circle and walk around the centre while flying.

Pilots must move to the edge of the “centre” circle to land for refuelling or at the finish of a race. Pilots must keep one foot inside the “centre” circle during the start of the race and during pit stops.

During a race, any pilot not flying (unable to continue or having finished), must take a sitting or kneeling position outside the “centre” circle and keep out of the way of other pilots. He, or she, may not leave the Racing Zone until the finish of the race.

Pilots should be crouching, straddling the “centre” circle for the start of the race and for take-off after refuelling during a race and move back to the centre of the circle as quickly as possible when racer becomes airborne.

The “Pitting” or “Flying” circle shall be a radius of 22.1m from the centre of the flying area with six equally spaced pitting segments. Crew members must keep themselves and their equipment outside the “Pitting” circle during the race.

Mechanic(s) must not at any time enter the flight circle without the consent of the Contest Director, and then must enter radially to retrieve models.

The individual team shall consist of one pilot and not more than two crew members.

While the entrant need not necessarily be the pilot, he, or she, must be a member of the team.

Heats will be flown over 70 laps with one compulsory refuelling stop. The final will be over 140 laps and will consist of teams who have flown the 3 fastest heats.

A two-minute preparation period consisting of a 90 second warmup and a 30 second cool down will apply. Towards the end of the cool down “10 seconds” will be announced with a loud countdown of the last 5 seconds ending with a sharp, clear “GO” signal.

At that moment the crew members must be standing upright close to their model and the pilots must be crouching on the border of the “centre” circle with the control handle near the ground below the knees.

Pilots must keep their controlling hand and the model on a plane perpendicular to a line joining their shoulders and passing through the centre line of their body, pilots must also keep their controlling hand on the vertical line between the middle of the chest and the top of the forehead, except when passing, taking off and landing when an exception of three laps is allowed.

Models must fly at a normal height of between 2 and 3 metres, except for passing, take-off or landing.

Passing must be done by overflying, and the pilot must warn his fellow competitors of his intention to overtake them.

The model is not in any case allowed to fly over 6 metres high when passing a competitor.

The pilot should always find himself on an imaginary line between the centre spot of the circle and the model.

The model is allowed to fly a maximum of two laps without the motor running.

The model must touch the ground with it’s motor stopped before the mechanic is allowed to catch it.

After the mechanic has caught the model, he must be to the pitting area at (or immediately behind) the point at which the model was stopped. If that pitting area is already occupied, he must go to the next pitting area ahead of his stopping point. A pitting area is occupied if a mechanic is standing at such an area, even if his team’s model is still in the air.

Should the model stop between two pitting areas, the mechanic must go to the nearest free pitting area.

After the mechanic has caught the model, but only then, the pilot is allowed to put one foot outside the “centre” circle.

During the refuelling and the restart of the motor, and until the time when he releases the model, the mechanic must keep the model in contact with the ground by at lease one point and with the centre line outside the “pitting” circle. During that time the pilot must be crouching (*) straddling the “centre” circle. He keeps his handle and his lines near the ground below the knees until the model starts again.

The model completing the race in the shortest time shall be declared the first place winner with others following in order of race completion times. After all models have completed the race, pilots should land and clear the area for the next race.

Any conduct or flight manoeuvre by a pilot that endangers, or results in damage to any other participating pilot or his model will constitute a foul and cause immediate disqualification from the race in which it occurs. Pilots will be warned for whipping, walking the back of the circle, pivoting or blocking. A team will be allowed two warnings during a race. A third offence will mean disqualification. As with Vintage A Team Race, interpretations of the Classic B Rules should be relaxed with only blatant offences resulting in disqualifications.

Due to the fact that old racing engines are not readily available, are expensive and those who have or can get them don’t always want to use them in competition, a modern engine group has been included with the old engines as allowable power.

"Picus Levis" - Italian design

Description Notes

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(These rules have been extracted from the F2C section in the 1968 MAAA rule book and modified.)
(An Appendix has also been added)

Team racing is a simultaneous race between three models flown by three pilots, in the same circuit. (In exceptional cases - two models flown by two pilots).

Each model is presented by a Team consisting of a pilot and a mechanic.
The name of the pilot and the mechanic must be indicated in the Entry Form.
Neither of these two competitors can be entered in another team.
The pilot of each model must remain in the centre circle; he has no other function than the piloting of the model.
The mechanic must remain on the outside of the flight circle during the race; his function is to start the motor, and refuel the tank during the race. His duties include the operations necessary to restart the motor after each stop.

Model aeroplanes in which the propulsion energy is provided by a piston engine and in which the lift is obtained by aerodynamic forces acting on the supporting surfaces which must remain fixed during flight.
The models must be of the semi-scale type and their general lines must be in accordance with those of full-size aircraft. Competitors may be required to justify their model design with documentary evidence of similar full-sized aircraft.

Total maximum weight 700 gms (24.6 ozs)
Maximum swept volume of engine(s) 2.5 c.c. (0.153 cu.in.)
Total surface (wing and stabiliser) minimum 12 sq. dms. (186 sq. in.)
Minimum dimensions of the fuselage at the pilot’s location: Height 100 mm (3.94 in.); Width 50 mm
(1.97 in.); Minimum cross sectional area 39 sq.cm. (6.05 sq.in.)
Wing fillets shall not be included in the fuselage cross sectional area.
The wheel or wheels shall have a minimum diameter of 25 mm. (1 in.)
The tank complete with all connecting tubes must be accessible. A single function valve is permitted.
Maximum fuel permitted in the model 10cc. The models must fly anti-clockwise round the course.
The motor or motors must be entirely enclosed including the cylinder head and the body of the carburettor (except the opening to the induction throat and a silencer). The only parts permitted to protrude from the body are those which have to be manipulated during the operation of starting the motor or motors or regulating the mixture. (Fuel, needle valves, compression control, advance control, plugs, tank fillers, etc.)
Openings for the entry and exit of air, exhaust, etc., may be provided for proper functioning of the motor or motors.
A cockpit or cabin with transparent windshield giving direct visibility forward must be provided to house the scale model pilot whose head shall be not less than 2 centimetres (0.8 in.) high, and shall be clearly visible.
The undercarriage must be fixed in a permanent manner to the model so as to permit normal take-off and landing.
The use of metal wheels is forbidden.

The length of the control lines must be 15.92 metres (52 ft. 3 in.). The diameter of single strand control lines must not be less than 0.3 mm. (0.0118 in.). Multi-strand lines must have a minimum diameter of 0.330mm (0.0130 in). Single line control (monoline) is not permitted.
In control line handles used for team racing, the distance from the axis of the handle to the point of attachment of the control lines shall not exceed 4 cm. (1.58 in.).
A load test shall be applied to the assembled control handle, lines and model equal to 20 times the weight of the model before any heat.

The length of the course shall be 10 kilometres (100 laps) except for the final which shall be 20 klm. (200 laps).

The flight circle of 19 metres (63 ft.) radius is divided into six equal segments for the location of the starting positions of the competitors.

Allocation of the starting positions will be by means of a draw. The competitor drawing position No. 1 will have the choice of starting positions, the remaining competitor’s will, in the order of the draw; select one of the remaining unoccupied starting segments.

Thirty seconds are then allowed during which last moment preparations may be made and the starter counts the last five seconds. Filling of the fuel tanks is carried out before the starting signal.

The mechanic must carry out the refuelling of the model in the nearest rearward sector of the flight circle in which the model stops forward motion.

Only when this sector is already occupied by another competitor may he occupy the sector forward of this point.

In Cases when the model stops its forward motion within two sectors which are already occupied the mechanic must go back to the nearest rearward free sector.

N. B. - The pilot must be crouching or seated during refuelling and restarting. The model may not be recovered with the engine running or prior to touchdown with the engine stopped.

The normal flying height must be between 2 and 3 metres (6-10 ft.). Except when overtaking, starting and landing, the control handle shall be held in contact with the middle line of the pilot’s chest.
Passing must always take place over other competitors and the overtaking pilot must indicate his intention of overtaking to the other competitors. A height of 6 metres (20 ft.) must not be exceeded while passing.
The pilot being overtaken must on no account carry out any manoeuvre to impede the overtaking competitor.
All infringements of these rules will entail cancellation of the heat.

Timing will finish when the model has completed the necessary circuits of the course to cover the specified distance.

A pilot whose model can no longer continue to fly or has finished the course must remain crouched or seated just outside the piloting circle of 3 metres (10 ft.) radius so long as the other competitors have not finished their flights, except when instructed otherwise by the Contest Director.

Each competing team must take part in at least one eliminating race to qualify for the final, but it may participate in two. If, during the first fifty laps in an eliminating race only one team remains in participation the race shall be declared null and void and the remaining team shall be re-matched in another heat during the round.

The three teams which have registered the three best times during the eliminating races qualify for the final race. In the case of a tie, the results of a second heat will be taken to establish the teams for final race. If there is still a tie, a new heat will decide.

The final placing of the finalists is established solely on the results of their flight in the final after rechecking the tank capacity and declared characteristics. The remaining competitors are placed according to their best flight in the eliminating races.

The Contest Director will be responsible for observing the conduct of each team during a heat. Teams will be informed of any offence. After any three offences a team will be eliminated from a heat.
Warning or cancellation of the heat shall be notified to the mechanic. If the misdemeanour persists or is repeated a second warning shall be given. If the misdemeanour still persists or any other infringement occurs, cancellation of the heat shall be notified.
In the event of any serious breach of the rules the Contest Director shall cancel the flight immediately.

If the pilot interferes with, or obstructs, other pilots, either by his conduct in the circle or by the manoeuvre of his model preventing the other model from flying or landing normally.

If a pilot has not the control handle in contact with the middle line of his chest (except overtaking, starting and landing when an exception for two laps is allowed).

If the height level of the flight is exceeded by the model (in overtaking especially by the lower model).

If during the heat the pilot steps out of the centre circle of 3 metres (10 ft.) radius, except as allowed by 4.3.12(c).

Jettisoning occurs (at each Intermediate take-off, the model must be in the same condition as it was at the start).

If through interference or obstruction, and through no fault of its own, a team is eliminated from a heat, that team shall be given the opportunity of making another attempt.

The organisers must appoint a panel of at least three Judges who shall preferably each be of a different State and be selected for their proficiency and experience.
Two time-keepers and two lap counters are allotted to each team and they must be located on the outside of the flight circuit adjacent to the starting point of the team they are timing. (Single time-keepers and lap counters may be sufficient during heats, but two must be used in the finals.)

Appendix

Draft rules for Australian Classic FAI Team Race

The aim of Australian Classic FAI team race is to re-create FAI team racing as it was before 1970, when in the eyes of many people, models were more beautiful, less expensive, and flew over grass at speeds most people can cope with. 1968 FAI team race F2C rules therefore apply except as follows:

A team racing site may have a short grass or hard surface. Where the surface is grass, the circles marked on the ground may be simplified by making them all the same colour, and by eliminating the broken line “safety circle” at 19.1m.

The choice of models designed before 1970 is encouraged, and such designs may be modified provided all other provisions of these rules are met. “Own design” and designs never before published are allowed.

Asymmetry in the plan view is limited to a maximum of 15mm. V tails shallow or steep angled are permitted.

Construction materials for models are unrestricted, except for the following which are not allowed: Components such as wings or fuselage moulded from carbon fibre, all-metal wings.

Aluminium or Magnesium pans are allowed.

Models need to be designed and constructed in such a manner as to be in the spirit of the rules. No flying wing designs allowed.

There is no restriction on exhaust outlets.

Engines are limited to the following and must not be schnuerle ported.
Oliver Tiger (any model up to Mk4, original or copy),
Fora Junior,
ST G20 diesel,
ST20/15RV Diesel,
MVVS (any model),
ETA 15,
TAIPAN up to series 13 Diesel.
Other engines may be approved upon request.

Pressurised refuelling systems other than a hand held squeeze bottle are not permitted. The use of multi-function filler valves is not permitted.

An effective engine-stopping device is recommended but is not compulsory. Promoters of individual races may choose to disallow the use of engine-stopping devices for pit-stops, and to apply a time penalty for their use, provided reasonable advance notice is given to all competitors of this decision.

Propellers are limited to commercially available nylon or GRP propellers. Propellers may be reduced in diameter or area over the outer half of each blade, but must not be thinned. Graupner or APC 7"x6" are suggested as a good starting point. Carbon fibre or glass fibre props are prohibited.

The use of line groupers attached to the wing tip is not permitted.

The round, diecast control handle/reels commonly used in Australia before 1970 are permitted.

Pilots may employ a more relaxed flying style by positioning their controlling hand forward of the vertical line (hand off chest) between the middle of the chest and the top of the forehead.

Control handles must be near the ground during the start of the race and during pit stops.

"Dimpled Dumpling"
Mid-1950's British design

A feature of this racing class is the many shapes and sizes of the A class designs. Some are really good looking, some are truly classy … but with others, beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

Engines mainly used are the famous British classic, the 2.5 cc Oliver Tiger diesel, or modern day reproductions of this. The Australian R250 replica is currently thought to be the world’s finest example of this aeromodelling legend.

It is the use of diesel fuel with it’s characteristic smell of ether, castor oil, kerosene and ignition additive that no doubt adds to the attraction of this class. It is something most older modellers can relate to with fond memories!

Vintage A racing competitions are run throughout Australia and are usually highlighted by extremely close racing. In NSW a ‘B’ Grade race to encourage beginners is usually run alongside the main event.

A team race contest requires a minimum of 10 people to run a three up heat or final. The most important person is the Contest Director who, as his name suggests, directs the race and makes sure all contestants abide by the rules.

There are three pilots, three pitmen and three timekeepers. One timekeeper is assigned to each team and counts and times the laps. In Vintage A there are 90 lap heats and 180 lap finals.

The timekeeper will stop his watch when the model he is timing reaches the 90 or 180 lap targets. It is a race, so the first to cross the finish line in the fastest time wins.

It was back in October, 1988 that the first Vintage A team race was run in Australia at the old Moorabbin Airport flying field. Since that time, this event has become the most popular racing class in the country with sometimes over 20 teams competing at a Nationals.

"A" Class team racers that were designed and flown up to the 1st January, 1958 are allowed to compete. That’s 50 years ago!

However, the modern day versions are anything but slow, with the fastest models able to exceed 100 mph. A good racer will also be able to manage more than 50 laps on one 15cc tank of diesel fuel.

Only minor changes to the original model design are allowed and these are explained in the rules below. There is a list of approved designs from which all models must be built. This is very extensive so a wide choice of models are available.

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VINTAGE A TEAM RACE
(As per MAAA VINTAGE A TEAM RACE)

Circle Layout
The layout shall consist of two concentric circles which shall be marked out on a grass surface.

The pitting circle shall be marked into six equally spaced segments for pitting/restarting the models.

Model designs published up to and including December 1957 or commercial kits complying with the 1957 rules shall be used. The model must conform to the outline as shown on the original plan. Proof shall be provided by the contestant if required by the contest director.

Models shall be of a scale or semi-scale appearance with a raised windshield or canopy.

The minimum wheel diameter shall be 1 1/2" (38mm) with a 1/16 inch negative (-1.5 mm) tolerance.

1957 and later: Any commercially available plain bearing, non Schnuerle ported engine may be used. The following engines may also be used:-

No multi-function or fast filling valves may be used, simple ball valves are accepted.

Fuel shut-offs are optional but must not be used during the race. Each use will result in a 30 second penalty added to the race time.

Shut offs may be used during the warm up period and only when the race has finished for that competitor.

Propellers: Only commercially available wood, nylon or glass filled nylon propellers may be used. Propeller modifications are permitted.

Permitted Modifications: The following modifications may be made in the interests of practicality:

The model may be strengthened, provided that the outline is not changed in any way. Only materials available in 1957 may be used in construction; however, modern adhesives may be used and metal motor mounts are allowed.

The undercarriage legs may be extended, shortened or raked forward to promote safer handling on grass surfaces. Spreader bars are optional.

The fuel tank shape, venting and location may be changed to any suitable dimensions, and position in the model can be changed from that shown on the plan, that is, higher up, further inboard or outboard.

Air Inlet/Outlet and exhaust duct size and position can be changed from the original plan, provided the fuselage outline is not altered. The ducting of the air around the motor inside the cowl may be changed to allow correct operation of the motor. This means that the inlet, outlet and exhaust may be redirected. This may also mean some alteration to the shape of the cowl.

Built up wings may be made of solid and aerofoil sections may be changed, for example, from flat bottom to symmetrical or asymmetrical or vice versa. Wing and tail planform outline must remain the same as original or within +/- 6.35mm of plan. Wing thickness may be changed; for example, 1/2 inch to 3/8 inch or 3/8 inch to 1/4 inch.

Line Length: The length of the control lines must be 46ft 8 in + 1.5" - 0" (14.23 m + 40 mm - 0 mm). The length is measured from the face of the grip on the control handle to the centre line of the model.

Line Test: A pull test of 20 g shall be applied for 5 seconds to the model/line combination.

A contestant (pilot or mechanic) may compete in only one team in each event, unless otherwise permitted by the contest director.

A contestant may use two models in any one event to complete the required number of heats/finals. Parts may be interchanged between the two models providing the resulting model conforms with all Vintage A rules.

Races shall consist of two heats and a final. The three highest heat scores will go into the final. (A division 2 final for the fastest three teams with a time slower than 4:45 may be flown at the C.D's discretion).

Each race shall have a minimum of two teams and a maximum of three teams competing.

Flying height shall be between 2 and 3 metres except on overtaking when the height must not exceed 6 metres.

Whipping is not permitted except on take off and landing. Whipping will incur a warning.

The pilot may fly with hand on chest or extended, but will be warned for dangerous flying.

Two-wheeled models being pitted with wheels and fuselage touching the ground shall not be penalised for "Lines off Ground". Model must be in contact with the ground while being pitted.

Landing models should clear models being pitted on the ground. The team operating a landing model that contacts a pitting model or its lines will be disqualified and a re-run given to the affected team.

Models must be carried backward to the nearest pitting segment. If that segment is occupied, the model may be carried forward. (A pitting segment is occupied if a mechanic is standing at such an area even if his teams’ model is still in the air). Failure to comply incurs a warning.

Mechanics must wear a safety helmet fitted with a chin strap worn under the chin.

Description Notes

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CLASS F2F - DIESEL PROFILE RACING MODEL AIRCRAFT

A Diesel Profile Racing event is a contest during which qualifying races are followed by a final race, in which three model aircraft participate simultaneously in each race, flying around the same circuit, each of them being entered by one team consisting of one pilot and one mechanic. In exceptional cases, a race may be run with only two teams.

No member of a team may be a member of another team. Only one member of each team may be an expert. A senior modeller is considered to be an expert if he/she has been placed once in the:

A junior is not considered to be an expert even if he/she is placed within the three criteria above.

A race is run over a set number of laps corresponding to the distance to be covered with landings for refuelling. The time taken by each model aircraft to cover that distance after the starting signal is registered.

The qualifying races are run over 100 laps corresponding to 10 kilometres. The final race is run over 200 laps corresponding to 20 km. Two pitstops (landings for refuelling) are mandatory for a qualifying race and five for a final race.

During the race the pilots remain in the centre of the circuit. Their only function is to control the model aircraft. The mechanics are placed outside the flight circle, as defined in paragraph 4.G.2. Their function is to start and adjust the motor and to refuel when the model aircraft is on the ground, and generally, to deal with the different operations that enable the model aircraft to race. The motor must be started by flicking the propeller by hand.

During a race, the mechanics must wear a safety helmet, with a chinstrap, strong enough to withstand the impact of a flying team racing model aircraft.

A Diesel Profile Racing site must consist of two concentric circles which shall be marked on the ground:

Circle to be used by the mechanics: 19,6 m radius. This is called the flight circle, and is divided into six equal 60 degrees sectors. At each sector a starting and refuelling area, one meter in length, shall be marked on the outside of the flight circle and be known as the "pitting area".

Circle to be used by the pilots: radius 3 metres. This is called the centre circle. The centre of this circle shall be marked with a white spot of 0,3 m diameter.

Model aircraft in which the propulsion energy is provided by a piston motor and in which lift is obtained by aerodynamic forces acting on the supporting surfaces which must remain fixed in flight except for control surfaces.

The engine must be diesel type with suction feed. Propeller must be commercially available plastic/glass composite type; moulded carbon and/or fibre glass propeller is forbidden.

Minimum diameter of the wheel(s): 25 mm. The use of metal wheels is forbidden.

Maximum fuel permitted: 15 cm3. Only one tank is allowed, to contain fuel and oil for lubrication.

The model aircraft must remain in a correct state according to 4.G.4 (a) - (l) throughout the full race, otherwise it will be disqualified.

Fuel tank, tubing and any associated filling valves or shut-off units must be accessible and capable of being measured accurately in order to check the total capacity as a unit. If the organisers do not consider the system to be accessible or accurately measurable, then the team will be disqualified.

The model aircraft must be equipped with an effective engine-stopping device for enabling the pilot to terminate the engine run before the fuel tank is completely empty.

Line Length: The radius of the flight circle is 15,92 m. It is measured from the axis of the control handle to the axis of the propeller.

Control System: Two control lines must be used. If constructed of single steel wire each, these must be of 0,30 mm minimum diameter with a minus tolerance of 0,011 mm allowed. If stranded line construction is used, these shall have a minimum of three strands and all strands shall be of equal diameter and the stranded combination shall have a minimum width of 0,34 mm with no minus tolerance allowed. In all cases the lines shall be measured using a suitable instrument with measuring surface diameters of 5 mm minimum and 8 mm maximum.

Before every race a load test shall be applied to the assembled control lines and the model aircraft in flying order equal to 30 times the gravity force, to a maximum of pull 140 N. The control handle must be built so that the distance between the axis of the handle and the points of flexibility of the two cables does not exceed 40 mm.

No intentional twisting and/or linking of the two lines together shall be permitted between the point of exit of the model aircraft and a point 300 mm from the handle. The use of flexible grouper(s) attached to the wing tip and extending a maximum of 2 cm is permitted.

Fuel Tanks: The fuel tank capacity is checked through the use of an accurate system by visual examination of the volume of the fuel put into the tank and pipes. Control is to be made before the contest and may be made after each race in addition to a verification after the final race.

Three competing teams (in exceptions only two) will fly simultaneously in each race after having been drawn for order. Qualifying races with less than three teams will be put at the end of the draw, in order to allow a three-team races with teams which have been granted an attempt.

The draw is organised in such a way that, when possible, only one team of any nation may participate in a qualifying race.

When it is not possible to organise a reflight for a team which has been granted an attempt, the F2F panel of judges will ask for volunteers to fill the race. The F2F panel of judges will organise an appropriate draw for the race among the volunteers and the team with the attempt. If there are no volunteers, the team will be allowed to fly alone to compete their reflight.

The teams may be allowed to run their motors just before entering the circle under the organiser's supervision so the running does not interfere with the starting procedure of a race. Mechanics are not allowed to walk with a running engine.

A pitting area (4.G.2.(a)) is occupied by each of the model aircraft which are to participate in a race. The model aircraft of the team designated first during the draw occupies the place chosen by that team. The other teams choose one of the remaining free pitting areas in order of the draw. The chosen pitting areas are considered occupied until the race is finished.

For the final race, the choice of the pitting areas shall be according to the results in the qualifying races. The team with the fastest time chooses first, the team with the second fastest time chooses next, etc. In case of a tie the teams' second fastest times in the qualifying races will decide the order of choice.

After entry to the circuit, it is forbidden to start a motor before the first signal has been given by the Circle Marshal, unless allowed by the Circle Marshal.

Two timekeepers are assigned to each team. They stand outside the flight circle, near the pitting area of the model aircraft that they control. They are in charge of the timekeeping and lap counting for their particular team.

A first signal given by the Circle Marshal authorises the mechanics to proceed with the warming up to the motor(s), during 90 seconds. A second signal (visual and acoustic) announces the end of the warming up period and orders the mechanics to stop motors.

A period of 30 seconds is allowed for final preparations (filling up the tanks) and the Circle Marshal announces the last five seconds by reverse counting.

The starting signal is given by the Circle Marshal through a visual signal (flag) and a sound signal. For the last 3 seconds of the countdown and at the starting signal the mechanics must be standing erect close to their model aircraft and the pilots must be crouching on the border of the centre circle, with one hand touching the ground and with their control handles as close to the ground as defined by the F2F panel of judges. The starting signal must be "sharp" to enable accurate timing.

Model aircraft must fly at a normal height of between two and three metres, except for overtaking, taking off or landing.

Pilots must keep their controlling hand and the model aircraft on a plane perpendicular to a line joining their shoulders and passing through the centre line of their body, pilots must also keep their controlling hand on the vertical line between the middle of the chest and the top of the forehead, except when overtaking, taking off and landing when an exception of three laps is allowed.

Overtaking must be done by overflying. The model aircraft is not in any case allowed to fly over six metres height when overtaking. The pilot being overtaken must on no account carry out any manoeuvre to impede the overtaking competitor and must leave space for the overtaking pilot when the overtaking is finished.

The model aircraft is allowed to fly a maximum of two laps without the motor running.

The model aircraft must touch the ground with its motor stopped before the mechanic is allowed to catch it.

After the mechanic has caught the model aircraft, he must go to the nearest free pitting area from the point at which the model aircraft was stopped. A pitting area is occupied if a mechanic is standing at such an area, even if his team's model aircraft is still in the air.

After the mechanic has caught the model aircraft, but only then, the pilot is allowed to put one foot outside the centre circle.

During the refuelling and the restart of the motor, and until the time when he releases the model aircraft, the mechanic must keep the model aircraft in contact with the ground by at least one point and with the centre line outside the flight circle. During that time the pilot must be crouching or sitting inside the centre circle. He keeps one hand on the ground and his handle and his lines as close to the ground as defined by the F2F panel of judges until the model aircraft starts again.

The race ends when the number of laps completing the required distance has been covered by all the competing model aircraft or, when the official time limit has been reached, which is fixed at 10 minutes for a qualifying race or a semi-final race and at 15 minutes for the final race.

Any team in a qualifying race which has been interrupted through an obstruction or collision for which it was not responsible shall be granted an attempt.

In a final race which has been interrupted through an obstruction or collision before any of the participants has completed 100 laps the final shall be stopped and all competitors, except any who have at the point of stoppage of the race been disqualified, shall be granted an attempt.

If, before 50 laps of a qualifying race have been completed by any of the teams who started the race, only one team remains in the running and flying alone, the race will be declared void and considered an attempt for the remaining team. A team which has been granted an attempt is allowed to participate in another race.

At each warning the chief judge shall notify the team manager concerned so that, in turn, he may convey the reason of the warning to the mechanic. In the event of any serious breach of the rules, the F2F panel of judges may eliminate the team from the race.

A TEAM SHALL BE WARNED:

If a pilot, instead of walking around the centre, stands in the same place or walks backwards or continuously keeps the centre spot of the circle between him and the model aircraft.

If a pilot applies physical effort to increase the speed of his model aircraft during the official flight.

If the height level of the flight prescribed by the rules is exceeded.

If, during the start of the race or during the pit stops, one hand is not on the ground, the control handle, the lines and the model aircraft are not as close to the ground as defined by the F2F panel of judges may eliminate the team from the race.

If a mechanic services the model aircraft outside the designated pitting area.

If the pilot does not leave space for an overtaking pilot when the overtaking is finished.

If the pilot steps outside the centre circle before the mechanic has taken hold of the landing model aircraft, and/or the pilot does not act in accordance with rule 4.G.7.i) and m).

If the mechanic steps into the flight circle with (with either foot), or reaches further than 0,5 m into the flight circle.

If the pilot whose model aircraft is to be overtaken carries out any manoeuvres to impede the overtaking competitor.

If jettisoning occurs or if the model aircraft is not in the condition as stated in 4.G.4.a). to i).

If the model aircraft is recovered with the motor running or prior to touch down with the motor stopped.

If, after its model aircraft have been processed, the competing team has used parts or elements not checked during the control; if the team has modified its model aircraft(s) by changing the characteristics or specifications imposed by the rules this may lead to the application of penalties as stated in the General Section of the Sporting Code.

If the team has accumulated three warnable offences during the race.

Each competing team must take part in at least one qualifying race to qualify for final race. The contests will be organised on two qualifying races and when it is decided by the organiser of the contest, on three.

The three teams having registered the three best times during qualifying races for the final race. When it is decided by the organiser of the contest, a specific final race could be organised for the three teams having registered the three best times during qualifying races with models powered by a steel piston/liner engine.

There is a tie between some teams when their best times in any single qualifying race are equal and also between their second best (and so forth in case of three flights). If there still exists a tie between some teams, a new qualifying race will be organised between these teams until an adequate number of teams is qualified for the final race. In that case, departure will be made by an individual draw.

This system for the elimination of ties will only be enforced if more than three teams qualify for the final race.

The competing teams which have participated in the final race will be placed at the head of the classification, only taking into account the times of flights during the final race.

The other teams will be classified according to their best time in qualifying races. Classification of any team that retired from any race or exceeded the official time limit for any race but was not disqualified, shall be ranked according to the number of laps completed.

If more than one team is disqualified in the final race, they are placed in the order of the number of laps completed. A disqualified team is always placed after any team that has retired without a disqualification.

Note: The F2F panel of judges' decision must be communicated to the lap counters to ascertain the number of "legal" laps.

The organisers must appoint a panel of at least three judges.

The judges must have at least one language in common. Except under exceptional circumstances, the judges must be at least two nationalities and one of them minimum must be selected from the list of F2C judges proposed by the National Airsports Controls for their proficiency and experience and approved by the CIAM.

Two timekeepers, equipped with electronic stopwatches registering at least 1/100th second, with a timing limit of minimum of 15 minutes will be allotted to each team.

The time retained is the average of the two times, made up to the next upper 1/10th second. A maximum difference of 1 second is allowed between the two timekeepers. In case of a larger difference the concerned team will have the choice between average of the two times or a reflight.

The F2F panel of judges is responsible for observing the conduct of each team during the race. Teams will be informed of any offence by visual indicators. After a maximum of three offences a team will be eliminated from a race.

Warning and cancellation are notified to each team by means of three coloured lights:

Green light - First warning (first offence).

Amber light - Second warning (renewal of the first offence or a new one).

Red light - Elimination (renewal of previous offences or a new one).

A time penalty of 5 seconds shall be given to a team starting the engine(s) during the countdown before the starting signal.

Description Notes

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Scale Team Racing is a simultaneous race between three models flown by three pilots in the same circuit (in exceptional circumstances, two models flown by two pilots). The objective of the race is to complete the required number of laps in the shortest possible time. A team shall consist of one pilot who shall remain in the centre of the circle piloting the model, and one mechanic (and one assistant, if required) who shall remain outside the flight circle and who shall start the engine(s) and perform any other necessary duties throughout the race. The personnel of a team shall remain unaltered throughout a contest. It is not permissible for any person to be a member of two teams.

A team may enter and have checked only two models; either or both may be used to complete the necessary number of flights. Only one model may be used in each race. The team may interchange the various model parts provided that the resulting model is re-checked by the Contest Director.

Spare propellers, plugs and general accessories are permitted. In the case of engines, spares are permitted but such engines must not be used by, or exchanged with, other entrants during the contest.

b)

Models shall be models of actual Goodyear racing planes that have flown in Goodyear or Continental Trophy races or other NPRPA Formula 1 races.

Tail area may be increased by 25% over scale area to permit safe handling. The scale shape of the tail must not be altered.

Models shall be coloured in a scale-like fashion, i.e. in a colour scheme that may have been used on a full sized aircraft.

The racing number of the full sized aircraft is to be displayed on the fuselage sides and on the upper inboard wing. The contestant's MAAA number is to be displayed on the upper outboard wing (preceded by "VH" [“AUS” after 1/1/’97]). All numbers are to be of block type letters.

Models shall have profile fuselages with a maximum width of 25 mm excluding cheek cowls. Motors shall be side-mounted and uncowled. Fuselage side cheeks are permitted in so far they do not cowl the motor.

The landing gear must exit from the scale side profile location but may be longer, higher or swept forward. Minimum wheel diameter is 25 mm. Wheel pants are optional. Mono wheel undercarriages are allowed.

The entrant, if requested, shall produce a three-view drawing to substantiate the scale outline of his model. The drawings shall be a source acceptable to the Contest Director. A commercial or published full-size plan shall be acceptable, provided it meets the above specifications.

Distance between the centre of the control handle and the centre line of the model shall be 15.92 metres +100mm, - 0 mm. Minimum line diameter:- 0.385 mm + 0 mm, - 0.011 mm. Mono line control systems are not permitted. The control apparatus (handle, lines and bellcrank) must withstand a minimum pull of twenty five times the total weight of the model. A second pull test will be applied immediately after the first.

A fuel cut-out is required on all scale team race models. The pilot must stop his motor and land within 10 laps when directed to do so by the Contest Director.

A race site must consist of two concentric circles which shall be marked on the ground as follows:

Circle to be used by the mechanics is 19.6 metre radius. This is called the flight circle and is divided into six equal 60 degree sectors, the limits of which define the starting and the refuelling points.

Circle to be used by the pilot shall be three metre radius. This is called the centre circle. The pilot shall be permitted to place one foot outside the pilot's circle after the mechanic has retrieved the model.

The mechanic, and assistant if used, must wear a safety helmet worn on the head and strong enough to withstand the impact of a scale team race model, with the helmet chinstrap worn under the chin.

Allocation of the positions shall be by draw - the team drawing No. 1 shall have a choice of starting position. The remaining teams will, in order of the draw, select one of the remaining unoccupied starting positions.

A first signal gives the mechanic the opportunity of running his motor(s) for a 90 second warm-up period.

A second signal announces the end of the warm-up period.

Thirty seconds are then allowed during which final preparations may be made. The starter will count off the last five seconds during which the pilot must be crouching, the mechanic and assistant (if used) standing upright and with the model on the ground.

The starting signal is then given by means of both a visual signal (flag) and an acoustic signal.

The model may not be retrieved with the engine running, or prior to touchdown with the engine stopped.

The pilot shall be permitted to place one foot outside the centre circle only after the mechanic has retrieved the model.

Mechanic(s) must not at any time enter the flight circle without the consent of the Contest Director, and then they must enter the flight circle radially to retrieve models.

The mechanic must refuel the model in the nearest rearward sector of the flight circle in which the model stops or is stopped. Only when this sector is already occupied by another team, may he occupy the sector forward of the stopping point. A sector is occupied if a mechanic is standing at such an area even if his teams’ model is still in the air.

In the case of a model stopping in a sector whose adjacent sectors are already occupied, the mechanic must go back to the nearest free sector.

During the pit stop (refuelling and restarting), the model, lines and control handle must remain on the ground. The centre line of the model must remain outside the flight circle during the pit stop.

During the pit stop, fuel must be added to the fuel tank; otherwise a pit stop will not be considered done.

When a model is being pitted and another is coming in, the landing model must clear the already grounded model's lines.

Racing height shall not exceed 3 metres and the height of overtaking models shall not exceed 6 metres. In over-taking, the faster model must pass over the top of the slower model.

The pilot shall fly with his handle not more than 300 mm from his chest/ Whipping of the model is not allowed. The pilot must walk in a forward direction at all times.

The race is ended when the competitors' models have completed the required distance. In any event, A Scale Team Race will finish 10 minutes after the starting signal in heats and 15 minutes in the final.

The contest shall be divided into two preliminary rounds and a final. Each entrant team shall be given the opportunity to fly once in each preliminary round.

Time is decided from the moment of the starting signal to the moment of completing the last lap.

The three teams which have recorded the three fastest times in the preliminary rounds qualify for the final. In the event of a tie, the entrants' final placing’s will be decided by their slower preliminary round time. In the event of a further tie, placing’s shall be determined by a fly-off race, flown over the final 200 lap distance.

If, through interference or obstruction, a team is eliminated from a race through no fault of its own, it shall be given the opportunity of a further attempt in that round.

If only one team remains in participation at the half distance mark in the race, that race will be declared null and void, and that team shall be rematched in another race during that same round.

Warnings shall be given to the mechanics. Any team receiving three warnings shall be disqualified.

if a pilot interferes with or obstructs another pilot, either by his conduct in the circle or by a manoeuvre of his model, prevents another model from flying or landing normally.

if a pilot, instead of walking forward at all times, walks backwards.

if the pilot flies with his handle more than 300 mm from his chest.

if a pilot applies physical effort to increase the speed of his model.

if the height levels prescribed are exceeded.

if, during the start of a race or during pit stops, the control handle, the lines and the model are not on the ground or the centreline of the model is not kept outside the flight circle.

if the pilot steps out of the centre circle before the mechanic has retrieved the model.

if passing is done by flying under the slower model.

if the pilot whose model is being overtaken carries out any manoeuvre to impede the overtaking competitor.

if a member of a team or their model causes a collision.

if the model is retrieved with motor running or prior to touchdown with the motor stopped.

for any other flagrant breach of the rules.

if the landing model fails to clear the already grounded model’s lines.

failure to shut motor off and land the model within 10 laps when directed by the CD

Description Notes

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AUSTRALIAN TEAM RACES
Classes 1/2A and 2 [Australian Rules]
(As per MAAA TEAM RACE)

Class 1/2A and 2 events to Australian Rules are similar to the FAI team race but use different size models. FAI team race rules apply except as follows:

It is necessary for the model to carry a realistic scale model pilot’s head. Exhaust shrouds not required, engine mounting lugs and fuel feed lines can be exposed.

At least one refuelling stop is required in heats, semi finals and finals.
A team shall consist of a pilot, a mechanic and an assistant (if required)
The contest shall be divided into two preliminary rounds and a final. Each entrant team shall be given the opportunity to fly once in each preliminary round.

The site may be laid out on grass. A hard surface may be used for the pilot’s/centre circle but is not mandatory.

A race will be terminated 10 minutes for heats and 15 minutes for finals after the starting signal.

Description Notes

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CONTROL LINE BENDIX RACING
(As per MAAA TEAM RACE)

Bendix Racing is a simultaneous race between three models flown by three pilots in the same circuit (in exceptional circumstances, two models flown by two pilots). The objective of the race is to complete the required number of laps in the shortest possible time. A team shall consist of one pilot who shall remain in the centre of the circle, piloting the model, and one mechanic (and one assistant if required) who shall remain outside the flight circle and who shall start the engine(s) and perform any necessary duties throughout the race. The personnel of a team shall remain unaltered throughout a contest. It is not permissible for any person to be a member of two teams.

Number of Models - A team may enter and have checked two models, and either or both may be used to complete the necessary number of flights. Only one model may be used in each race. The team may interchange various model parts provided that the resulting model is re-checked by the Contest Director.

Spare propellers, plugs and general accessories are permitted. In the case of engines, spares are permitted, but such engines must not be used by, or exchanged with, other entrant teams during the contest.

Maximum engine/s capacity shall not exceed 6.00 cm3. Mufflers are optional except where local noise rules exist.

Maximum fuel tank capacity (including fuel tube) shall not exceed 40.00 cm3. Pressure feed acceptable, but pressure re-fuelling is not allowed. Fuel shut-offs are mandatory. Fuel is at entrant's discretion excepting substances banned by the MAAA Inc. and the FAI.

Model shall be semi-profile in appearance and must resemble in outline, the fuselage and flying surfaces of a full size aeroplane which has competed in the BENDIX-THOMPSON series of trophy races or NPRPA Formula 1 races or GOODYEAR and CONTINENTAL Trophy Races.

Onus of proof, i.e. photos, drawings, etc. are the responsibility of the entrant and must be produced to the contest officials for processing.

The Fuselage shall:-

Have a minimum width of 12 mm and a maximum width of 25 mm (excluding cheek cowls) at a point between the leading edge and the minimum vertical depth of wing root section.

Motor must be uncowled.

Have a minimum length of 609 mm excluding the rudder (as measured from the back of the propeller to the rudder hinge line which must be clearly marked on the aircraft).

Shall have a minimum height of 125 mm at the cockpit.

The Wing shall:-

Be of built-up construction (including foam); Have a minimum wingspan of 1000 mm; Have a minimum root chord (outside fuselage) of 225 mm; Wing thickness of the root shall be at least 38 mm. If the wing is tapered in thickness then the thickness must reduce at a constant rate from a minimum of 38mm at the root to a minimum or 28mm at the tip measurement point. The measurement of tip thickness will be made at a point 400mm from the fuselage centreline. Note: Root shall be defined as the innermost wing section, not counting fillets, that may be measured at the fuselage.

Colour Scheme and Numbers:-

Models shall be coloured in a scale-like fashion, i.e. in a colour scheme that may have been used on a full-sized aircraft.

The racing number of the prototype must be permanently affixed to each side of the fuselage, and also the inboard wing, in a minimum height of 50 mm.

The contestant's VH [AUS] number must be permanently affixed to the upper surface of the outboard wing in a minimum height of 25 mm.

The Lines shall:-

Be a minimum length of 18.3 metres measured from the hand grip of the handle to the centre line of the fuselage, + 100 mm, - 0.00 mm.

Be a minimum diameter of 0.455 mm (0.018”). (Mono line control systems are NOT permitted.)

All lines, handles, bellcranks and connectors must withstand a pull-test of 30g and must also meet a safety inspection. "LUXON" type or central sliding type line connectors are NOT permitted.

The Undercarriage shall:-

Be of scale location.

Wheels shall be of a minimum diameter of 50 mm and be at least 100 mm apart.

In the case of a tricycle undercarriage, the main gear must be at least 100 mm apart.

The use of all-metal wheels is prohibited. Nose skids are not allowed.

Model and contestants must conform to local, club, safety and noise regulations.

A race site must consist of two concentric circles which shall be marked on the grass as follows:-

The circle to be used by the mechanics is 22.3 metres radius. This is called the flight circle and is divided into six (6) equal 60 degree sectors, the limits of which define the starting and re-fuelling points.

The circle to be used by the pilot shall be three (3) metres in radius. This is called the centre circle. The pilot is permitted to place one foot outside the centre circle after the mechanic has retrieved the model.

The mechanic and assistant, if used, must each wear a safety helmet with a chinstrap worn under the chin, strong enough to withstand the impact of a model being used in the competition.

A pitting area [1.5 (a)] is occupied by each of the models which are to participate in the race. The model of the team designated first in the draw occupies the place chosen by that team. The other team(s) choose one of the remaining free pitting areas in the order of the draw.

A first signal gives the mechanic the opportunity of running his motor for a 90 second warm up period.

Thirty (30) seconds are then allowed in which final preparations may be made. The starter will count off the last five seconds during which the pilot must be crouching, the mechanic and assistant, if used, standing upright and with the model on the ground.

The starting signal is then given by means of both a visual (flag) and an acoustic signal.

The model may not be retrieved with the engine running or prior to touchdown with the engine stopped.

The pilot shall be permitted to place one foot outside the centre circle only after the mechanic has retrieved the model.

Mechanics must not, at any time, enter the flight circle without the consent of the Contest Director, and then they must enter the flight circle radially to retrieve the model.

The mechanic must refuel the model in the nearest rearward sector of the flight circle in which the model stops or is stopped. Only when such sector is already occupied by another team may he occupy the sector forward of the stopping point.

In the case of a model stopping in a sector whose adjacent sectors are already occupied, the mechanic must go back to the nearest free sector.

During the pit stop (re-fuelling and re-starting) the model's lines and control handle must remain as close as possible to the ground. The centre line of the model must remain outside the flight circle during the pit stop. During the pit stop, fuel must be added to the tank.

Racing height shall NOT exceed four metres and the height of overtaking models shall NOT exceed six metres. In overtaking, the faster model must pass over the top of the slower model(s).

The pilot shall fly with his handle not more than 300 mm from his chest. "WHIPPING" of the model is not allowed. The pilot must walk in a forward direction at all times.

The race is ended when the competitors' models have completed the required number of laps. In an event, a BENDIX race will finish 10 minutes after the starting signal in any heat and 20 minutes in the final.

The contest shall be divided into two (2) preliminary rounds and a final. Each Entrant Team shall be given the opportunity to fly once in each preliminary round.

Time is decided from the moment of the starting signal to the moment of completion of the last lap.

The three teams which have recorded the three fastest times in the preliminary rounds qualify for the final. In the event of a tie, the Entrant's final placing will be decided by their other preliminary round time. In the event of a further tie, placing shall be determined by a fly-off race flown over 160 laps.

If through interference or obstruction, a team is eliminated from a race through no fault of their own, they shall be given the opportunity of a further attempt at that round.

If only one team remains in participation at the half distance mark in a race, that race will be null and void and that team rematched in another race during the same round.

If a pilot interferes with or obstructs another pilot, either by his conduct in the circle or by a manoeuvre of his model, prevents another model from flying or landing normally.

If during the start of a race or during a pit stop the model is not kept in contact with the ground or kept outside the flight circle or the handle and lines are not kept as close as possible to the ground.

If the pilot steps out of the centre circle before the mechanic has retrieved the model.

If the pilot whose model is being overtaken carries out any manoeuvre to impede the overtaking competitor.

If the model is retrieved with the motor still running or prior to touchdown with the motor stopped.

Arguing with the Contest Director will lead to disqualification.

Description Notes

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MINI GOODYEAR COMPETITION RULES
(As per MAAA TEAM RACE)

Mini Goodyear competition is a simultaneous race between three models flown by three pilots in the same circuit (in exceptional circumstances, two models flown by two pilots).The objective of the race is to complete the required number of laps in the shortest possible time. A team shall consist of one pilot who shall remain in the centre of the circle, piloting the model, and one mechanic (and one assistant if required) who shall remain outside the flight circle and who shall start the engine(s), and performing other necessary duties throughout the race. The personnel of a team shall remain unaltered throughout a contest. It is not permissible for any person to be a member of two teams.

A team may enter and have checked only two models, and either or both may be used to complete the necessary number of flights. Only one model may be used in each heat or final. The team may interchange the various model parts provided that the resulting model is rechecked by the Contest Director. Spare propellers, plugs and general accessories are permitted. In the case of engines, spares are permitted but such engines must not be used by, or exchanged with, other entrant teams during the contest.

Models shall be models of actual Goodyear racing planes that have flown in Goodyear or Continental Trophy races or other NPRPA Formula 1 races.

Model profiles shall be within 10% of scale linear dimensions, the scale being 1/10 except where noted below.

Tail area may be increased by 25% over scale area to permit safe handling. The scale shape of the tail must not be altered.

Models shall be coloured in a scale-like fashion, i.e. in a colour scheme that may have been used on a full-sized aircraft.

The racing number of the full-sized aircraft is to be displayed on the fuselage sides and on the upper inboard wing. The contestant's MAAA number is to be displayed on the upper outboard wing (preceded by "VH" [“AUS” after 1/1/’97]). All numbers are to be of block type letters.

Models shall have a profile fuselage with a maximum width of 19.05 mm (3/4 inches) excluding cheek cowls. Motors shall be side-mounted and uncowled. Fuselage side cheeks are permitted in so much that they do not cowl the motor.

The landing gear must exit from the scale side profile location but may be longer, higher or swept forward. Minimum wheel diameter is 25 mm. Wheel pants are optional. Mono wheel undercarriages are allowed.

The entrant, if requested, shall produce a three-view drawing to substantiate the scale outline of his model. The drawings shall be a source acceptable to the Contest Director. A commercial or published full-size plan shall be acceptable, provided it meets the above specifications.

Distance between the centre of the control handle and the centre line of the model shall be 14.2 metres +100 mm, -0 mm. Minimum line diameter:- 0.30 mm. Monoline control systems are not permitted. The control apparatus (handle, lines and bellcrank) must withstand a minimum pull of twenty times the total weight of the model.

A fuel cut-out is required on all Mini Goodyear models. The pilot must stop his motor and land within 10 laps when directed to do so by the Contest Director.

A race site must consist of two concentric circles which shall be marked on the ground as follows:

Circle to be used by the mechanics is 17.7 metre radius. This is called the flight circle and is divided into six equal 60 degree sectors, the limits of which define the starting and the refuelling points.

Circle to be used by the pilot shall be three metre radius. This is called the centre circle. The pilot shall be permitted to place one foot outside the centre circle after the mechanic has retrieved the model.

The mechanic, and assistant if used, must wear a safety helmet worn on the head and strong enough to withstand the impact of a Mini Goodyear model, with the helmet chinstrap worn under the chin.

Allocation of the positions shall be by draw - the team drawing No. 1 shall have a choice of starting position. The remaining teams will, in order of the draw, select one of the remaining unoccupied starting positions.

A first signal gives the mechanic the opportunity of running his motor(s) for a 90 second warm-up period.

Thirty seconds are then allowed during which final preparations may be made. The starter will count off the last five seconds during which the pilot must be crouching, the mechanic and assistant (if used) standing upright and with the model on the ground.

The starting signal is then given by means of both a visual signal (flag) and an acoustic signal.

The model may not be retrieved with the engine running, or prior to touchdown with the engine stopped.

The pilot shall be permitted to place one foot out-side the centre circle only after the mechanic has retrieved the model.

The mechanic must refuel the model in the nearest rearward sector of the flight circle in which the model stops or is stopped. Only when this sector is already occupied by another team, may he occupy the sector forward of the stopping point. A sector is occupied if a mechanic is standing at such an area even if his teams’ model is still in the air.

In the case of a model stopping in a sector whose adjacent sectors are already occupied, the mechanic must go back to the nearest free sector.

During the pit stop (refuelling and restarting), the model, lines and control handle must remain on the ground. The centre line of the model must remain outside the flight circle during the pit stop.

When a model is being pitted and another is coming in, the landing model must clear the already grounded model's lines.

A pit stop is not considered done unless fuel is added to the fuel tank.

Racing height shall not exceed 3 metres and the height of overtaking models shall not exceed 6 metres. In over-taking, the faster model must pass over the top of the slower model.

The pilot shall fly with his handle not more than 300 mm from his chest except on taking off, overtaking and landing where three laps off the chest is allowed. Whipping of the model is not allowed. The pilot must walk in a forward direction at all times.

The race is ended when the competitors' models have completed the required distance. In any event, Mini Goodyear Race will finish 10 minutes after the starting signal in heats and 15 minutes in the final.

The contest shall be divided into two preliminary rounds and a final. Each entrant team shall be given the opportunity to fly once in each preliminary round.

Time is decided from the moment of the starting signal to the moment of completing the last lap.

The three teams which have recorded the three fastest times in the preliminary rounds qualify for the final. In the event of a tie, the entrants' final placing’s will be decided by their slower preliminary round time. In the event of a further tie, placing’s shall be determined by a fly-off race, flown over the final 200 lap distance.

If, through interference or obstruction, a team is eliminated from a race through no fault of its own, it shall be given the opportunity of a further attempt in that round.

If only one team remains in participation at the half distance mark in the race, that race will be declared null and void, and that team shall be rematched in another race during that same round.

Warnings shall be given to the mechanics. Any team receiving three warnings shall be disqualified.

If a pilot interferes with or obstructs another pilot, either by his conduct in the circle or by a manoeuvre of his model, prevents another model from flying or landing normally.

If, during the start of a race, or during pit stops, the control handle, the lines and the model are not on the ground, or the centre line of the model is not kept outside the flight circle.

If the pilot steps out of the centre circle before the mechanic has retrieved the model.

If the pilot whose model is being overtaken carries out any manoeuvre to impede the overtaking competitor.

If the model is retrieved with the motor running, or prior to touchdown with the motor stopped.

Failure to shut motor off and land model within 10 laps when directed by the CD

Description Notes

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RAT RACES (2.5 cc)
(As per MAAA TEAM RACE)

A Rat Race is a simultaneous race between three control line models and their pilots, similar to Team Racing, but with fewer restrictive requirements. The object is to fly the greatest number of laps in a set race time.

A team shall consist of a pilot, a mechanic and an assistant (if required).

There is no restriction on wing area, fuselage cross-section or fuel tank capacity.

Fuel shut-offs are mandatory; pilots must be able to stop and land the model within ten laps when required by the Contest Director.

Control line handles may be made of metal, wood or plastic. The handle shall be of a size and shape that the pilot is able to safely change hands while flying.

The handle should be of such construction that it has two places to hold.

Control Line Handle suitable for holding in two places.

The model's control mechanism from the handle and including the model shall withstand a 25 g pull test prior to each heat.

A race site must consist of two concentric circles which shall be marked on the ground as follows:-

Circle to be used by mechanics is 19.6 m radius. This is called the flight circle and is divided into six equal 60 degree sectors, the limits of which define the starting and refuelling points

Circle to be used by the pilot shall be 3 m radius. This is called the centre circle. The pilot shall be permitted to place one foot outside the centre circle after the mechanic has retrieved the model.

Races shall consist of two heats, if needed, and a final. The three highest single heat scorers will go into the final. Each entrant shall be entitled to fly in two heats (one in each round) to qualify for the final.

One refuelling stop is mandatory in each heat and two refuelling stops in the final.

A first signal given by the Contest Director authorizes the mechanics to proceed with the warming up to the motor(s), during the 90 seconds. A second signal announces the end of the warming up period and orders the mechanics to stop motor(s).

A period of 30 seconds is allowed for final preparations (filling up the tanks) and the Contest Director announces the last 5 seconds by reverse counting.

The starting signal is given by the Contest Director through a visual signal (flag) and a sound signal. For the last 3 seconds of the countdown and at the starting signal the mechanics must be standing erect close to their model aircraft and the pilots must be crouching on the border of the centre circle, with their control handles as close to the ground as defined by the Contest Director.

The model aircraft must touch the ground with its motor(s) stopped before the mechanic is allowed to catch it.

After the mechanic has caught the model aircraft, he must go to the nearest free pitting area from the point at which the model aircraft was stopped. A pitting area is occupied if a mechanic is standing at such an area, even if his team’s model aircraft is still in the air.

After the mechanic has caught the model aircraft, but only then, the pilot is allowed to put 1 foot outside the centre circle.

During the refueling and the restart of the motor(s), and until the time when he releases the model aircraft, the mechanic must keep the model aircraft in contact with the ground by at least 1 point and with the centre line outside the flight circle. During that time the pilot must be crouching or sitting inside the centre circle. He keeps his handle and lines as close to the ground as defined by the Contest Director until the model aircraft starts again.

The race ends when the official time limit has been reached, which is fixed at 10 minutes for a heat and 20 minutes for a final race.

When the model aircraft cannot continue after a stop, its pilot must sit down or crouch outside the centre circle as long as the other competitors are still engaged in the race, unless the Contest Director allows him to leave the circle earlier.

Except for overtaking, flying height shall be between 2 metres and 6 metres.

Whipping will be permitted, however, contestants will be warned for dangerous flying. Three such warnings will lead to disqualification.

Refer 4.7.2. Fuel Shut-offs. Failure to shut motor off and land the model within 10 laps when directed by the CD will lead to disqualification.

A team shall be eliminated from a race if a member of the team or the model causes a collision or crash.

Pilots may not leave the centre circle while flying. Mechanics must not at any time enter the flight circle without consent of the Contest Director and then they must enter the flight circle radially to retrieve the model.

Mechanics must wear safety helmets at all times with the chinstrap attached and worn under the chin.

Officials shall be a Contest Director and a lap counter for each model. All lap counters shall stand together at one point. Each entrant shall have his particular counter pointed out to him.

The laps flown by each model shall be counted from the starting signal until the end of the flying time.

Description Notes

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OPEN RAT RACE

A Rat Race is a simultaneous race between two control line models in heats and final races, similar to Team Racing, but with less restrictive requirements. The objective is to fly the set number of race laps in the least possible time.

Description Notes

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Simple 2.5cc Rat Race

These Rules are promulgated by C.L.A.C. for the conduct of unofficial control line events run in Victoria. All events included in these rules are current and may be added to or deleted at the discretion of C.L.A.C. The Rules presented here have been drafted to be read in conjunction with the current M.A.A.A rules book, and have been formatted so as to be easily filed with the M.A.A.A rules book