With SW winds crossing the ramp at 20 kts another day of learning is declared. The picturebook morning provided an excellent backdrop, and Ricker Goldsborough organized class photos that featured both particpants and sponsors. Thanks to Ricker's efforts, Red Bull and Maui Jim joined Flytec, A•I•R USA and others as substantial sponsors of Team Challenge. Randy Leggett, in addition to flying with team 4Fs, brought the news that Foundation for Free Flight has authorized five scholarships for the Tennessee Tree Toppers to award to bring either mentors or pilots to future Team Challenges.
During the day a distinquished panel comprised of Dennis Pagen, Tom Lanning, Mike Barber, Jim Lamb and Ollie Gregory fielded questions from the particpants on the full gamut of subjects from basic to advanced. The day was capped off by free flying as the wind calmed a little, then a truly excellent, copious catered dinner organized by Mark Poling, and the Red Bull party at the pavillion. Erin Rapacki's karaoke encore set a most excellent tone. As I crossed the mountain homeward to Chattanooga, I couldn't get it out of my head.
Tomorrow, the work and anticipation begin for Team Challenge 2010.
