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1. 04:41 AM - Oshkosh Visit-Monday (James, Clive R)
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| Subject: | Oshkosh Visit-Monday |
It's 15 years since I was last there and was good to finally get back.
In the UK we have the PFA Rally and that got up to 2000 planes with an
airshow around 2001 but too grand an approach and I fear trying to
emulate OSH meant a bad weather year blew the finances, that was after
foot and mouth cancelled it which lost some momentum. It disappeared for
a while though is back for a second year on a small scale at the
airfield it started at this September. We'll be there, and here's
comment that makes me realise how old I am, some 47 years after the
first time I attended.
One thing I'd forgotten was the size of the airventure, the first thing
we did was take the the tram from the South end where we'd entered at
the Ultra Light Barn, all the way to the North as far as it goes. This
enabled us to get our bearings and then we spent the next several hours
making our way back stopping for lunch on the way with an 'EAA signature
special Sub' which I recommend. Then through all the stands to end up
free and clear for the airshow at 15.30.
As Buz said the muddy bits do seem to be drying out well though it is
still possible to mess your shoes up if your eyes are pointing skyward
as you walk. The opportunities are getting less and less. I suppose the
only bit missing was the amount of inbound GA aircraft although
throughout the day there was always something on the move. The air show
was good though no jets apart from a beat up by an arriving plane and
some T?s who were overhead late in the day. Highlight for was the T28s
in the sky with a group of DC3s. Some of the T28 pilots were in or hotel
in Sheboygan as they were based out there and we watched them practise
on Sunday. I can only imagine that the aerial activity will build up
though the week and I'm beginning to wish I'd pushed my luck with the
wife more and scheduled a few more days.
Lightning and Jabs look great on the stand, as an committed Jab fan I
was pleased to see how the styling of the Jab USA paint jobs really
improved the look of the slightly gimpy Jab silhouette that I've got
used to (and love).
The new Lightning Demo's paint styling and colour really is the best
yet, subtle class. My wife was impressed by the interior finish which
will also support a really good impression of the aircraft for those new
to it (first time I've ever seen one in the flesh).
The band at the end of the day was a nice way to finish though without
beer for a 'party' I do feel there's something missing, or more harshly,
what's the point?
I finished the day at the Ultralight strip where the circuits of the
planes were great to watch with a sunset backdrop.
Never did get to speak with anyone as I was keeping on the move to make
sure I got round everything. Hoping to get back again today for a more
leisurely walk round on my own, that is if I can pull it off....
Either way have a great show!
Regards, Clive
P.S. first planes we saw as we entered at the UL barn were the two
Challenger amphibians from Canada, the guys we met at Mackinac County
(St Ignace) on their way down last Wednesday.
They're heading off today (Tuesday) to miss the weather that's going to
get in their way to get home, had a chat with them last night, 4 days
down, 4 days at OSH and 4 days going back!
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