nats

By Bob Mears

Today was Crazy-Fast, Fast Combat. It is only for the ballsy. First place went to Bill Maywald, Chuck Rudner took second and Neil Simpson was third. These guys had some amazing matches! This was the last combat event at the Nats. We will see everyone next year.

Thursday was registration and practice day at the Scale Nats, which means no competition flights were flown and no rounds were scored in the air. That does not mean the day was quiet.

Speed Limit Combat started Tuesday. We had really nice weather. It was great to fly in.

There are multiple angles from which to approach this final issue of NatsNews for the 2026 AMA RC Pylon Racing National Championships. I wish there was a way to convey the intensity, nerve, skill and aggression on display during the actual laps of competition – especially in the Quarter 40 class.

The unofficial Carrier events were run today. These events are usually completed by noon, so I made plans to be somewhere else later in the day. However, Murphy raised his head and said “Not today.”

We held 1/2A Combat today. There were some really good matches. Zero wind and hot temps made for hot combat. But the low winds allowed a full 360 degrees of airspace to use.

" Bring on the clowns, I say." was heard early this morning over the PA. Under good weather with light winds, the three PDQ Flying Clown race teams headed off to the flying circle.

As the contestants woke up from their slumber, they looked out the window and noticed clear skies and cool temperatures. For some, it was even a bit chilly. It still was going to be one of those “Don't forget the sunscreen.” days again.

Monday was F2D Combat. This was a fast and furious event with 20 entries. The final came down to Dave Fischer, who took the first spot, followed by Sam Londke. Chris Gay placed third.

Sometimes you can win an individual heat race by being careful. But you’re not going to win an entire event with this approach. At some point during the competition, you are going to go against the best.