thrmaln
Dec 21, 2002, 01:00 AM
<blockquote>There is nothing more satisfying than being able to climb out on the smallest of thermals, especially with a plane that you were able to fling into the air using nothing more than your body and a bit of help from physics! That is what HLG (Hand Launch Gliders) and DLG (Discus Launch Gliders) flying is all about, and if you are reading this, then you share my passion.</blockquote>
<blockquote>Hello, my name is Marc Webster and I share the thermal column here at the LiftZone with George Voss. George and I will share the writing duties by alternating each month. I will be writing mostly HLG related articles, but from time to time, I will focus on articles pertaining to thermal duration flying as well. I am located in Castaic, California and George lives in Oklahoma City. This distance should lend itself well to covering a broad range of what is happening in the thermal and HLG community. As with any sport or hobby, there are many milestones and achievements that stand out, such as making it through your first contest without crashing due to pressure, winning your first club contest, and most definitely, the first time you skied out a HLG from a hand or discus launch.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I have been away from the HLG scene for about two years or so due to an eye injury as well as focusing on my Thermal Duration flying. Boy, have things changed in just a few years! I started flying HLG many years ago with a Windsnake, which was a fiberglass pod and boom glider with SD7037 polyhedral wing that was designed by a friend of mine, Randal Wilson. Remember when 15 ounces was light for a two-servo hand launched glider? Randal improved the Windsnake and eventually ended up selling the rights to Northeast Sailplanes, where it was marketed as the Obsession. I still have my Windsnake gathering dust. Maybe sometime in the future, a nostalgic class HLG event will emerge so I can throw some gear in it and have some fun. As with many others, I later moved up to a DJ Aerotech Wizard and had a lot of fun with it as well. Right about the time I started to focus mainly on TD flying, Dick Barker introduced his Uplink. Boy, this was a drastic change from the normal way of launching. Dick was definitely thinking outside the box when he started to experiment with discus launching and forever changed the sport. Gone are the days of sore shoulders and elbows. Now the playing field has been leveled to flying ability rather than age. I still have my Uplink as well.</blockquote>
<blockquote>So, what am I flying now? Glad you asked! After many hours of research on the net and talking with friends and watching pilots fly DLG at the Visalia Fall Fest, I ended up ordering a Taboo XL from Oleg Golovidov. I hope to have it in the air by the time this article is posted.</blockquote>
<blockquote>So, where is our sport heading? Who knows, but the outlook looks good. Radio equipment keeps getting smaller in leaps and bounds. Just when you think, "That's the smallest servo I have ever seen", somebody has made one smaller and cheaper as well. We can thank the indoor and parkflyer revolution for a good deal of this technology. Discus Launch is definitely here to stay, and it is early enough that many people have many different ideas on how a DLG should be made, which should lend itself to some interesting ideas in the future. This infancy is a good thing since there are not any set rules other than strength, lightweight and maximum launch height. It seems that Thermal Duration gliders have hit a stagnant point where all of the designs resemble each other so much that it is tough to identify one from another at times. This is not necessarily a bad thing, since Thermal Duration gliders have had more time to become optimized to the required flying tasks. However, there are exceptions to the rule as with the Mantis, which is a drastic departure to what everybody else thinks a TD ship should be. I cannot wait to see what exceptions people come up with for DLG as well. Maybe a competitive flying wing is in the future. Only time can tell.</blockquote>
<blockquote>In the upcoming months, I hope to develop a more structured format to this column, with articles about new products of interest to HLG, upcoming contests, flying techniques, design ideas as well as a portion devoted to you, the readers. I would love pictures and specifications of any homebuilt HLGs as well as suggestions for future articles. If you have a design that you plan to kit, then definitely send me any photos with a mini review of the flying characteristics. This column will only evolve if I get feedback from you the readers and I hope to do my best. Now, let's move on to the good stuff!</blockquote>
<p><big>Featured Dlg For December 2002 - Taboo XL</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flapsdown.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flapsdown_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
<td width="50%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/tabookit.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/tabookit_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">Six servo Taboo XL</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">This is a very complete kit!</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>As mentioned above, I have a <a href="http://olgol.com/tabooxl/">Taboo XL</a> on order, and I am busting at the seams waiting for it to arrive. So, what made me choose the Taboo XL? Well there were many factors, such as flying ability, launch ability, design criteria, and the fact that I wanted a Kevlar skinned wing. After searching the net and talking with flying buddies, I narrowed my selection to three possible designs, the Mapleleaf Designs Encore, Polcat Aero's XP3, and Oleg Golovidov's Taboo XL. First, let me say that all three are world class designs, and I hope to own all three in the future, but I eventually decided on the Taboo XL. Another factor was that some members in my club have both Encore's and XP3's, and I would be able to get some real world comparisons between the Taboo XL and the others. I also liked the fact that the Taboo XL is very similar to a DLG that I have designed in AutoCAD and hope to build sometime this winter. The Taboo XL is essentially a pod and boom design, but by using the boom designed for Mark Drela's Allegro, it is quite stiff, and this stiffness is said to increase launch height.</blockquote>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/boomflex.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/boomflex_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">Look at that boom flex!</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>The Taboo XL also uses the most recent series of Drela airfoils (ag45-46-47), which are also used on Mark Drela's Super Gee. In speaking with friends who attended the International Hand launch Glider Festival, the Taboo XL was described as being able to launch to the moon. Oleg consistently had some of the highest launches in the group. I plan to build the Taboo XL as a four servo DLG, and I hope to have some flying reports by the next column. One other thing worth noting is Oleg's impeccable customer service. I used to be a manufacturer and know how hard it is to balance family obligations with filling orders as well as leaving some free time to fly on occasion. Oleg has always taken the time to reply to my emails promptly. Additionally, he has kept me posted as to an estimated ship date of my order. If you are even thinking of ordering a competition class DLG, then do yourself a favor and consider the Taboo XL.</blockquote>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flyoff.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flyoff_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">Oleg and Joe with Taboos at North Carolina Contest</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>Well, the holidays are almost here, and now is the time to take a stand and tell your significant others what you really want, otherwise, look forward to those socks and ties. Anyway, below are a couple of products that are worth looking into that pertain to DLG and HLG enthusiasts.</blockquote>
<p><big>Hitec Electron 6 Dual Conversion Receiver</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/electron6.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/electron6_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">Nice and small!</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>It looks as if Hitec has done it again. Like many others, I have been using Hitec receivers for some time now, and I have yet to have a bad experience. Aside from their earlier Feather receivers, all of their equipment is well made and can be relied upon at all times. Apparently, the Electron-6 will be replacing the well-liked Hitec 555, but with the added benefit of an extra channel and a weight savings of four grams. For additional specifications, please refer to <a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">Hitec's website</a>. </blockquote>
<p><big>Dymond Modelsports Usa D60 Sub Micro Servo</p></big>
<blockquote>Oleg turned me on to these servos and they are a great find. While they are a bit larger in length and height compared to an HS-55, they are only 8mm (.315") thick, have 24 ounces of torque, and weigh only 8 grams (.28 oz). Due to their reduced thickness and higher torque, they make a great replacement for the HS55 when used as wing servos. For additional specifications, please refer to <a href="http://www.rc-dymond.com">Dymond's website</a>.
</blockquote>
<p><big>Lolo Altitude Data Logger</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/lolo.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/lolo_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">LoLo data logger</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>This little device can be used to analyze and fine tune launch techniques and plane setups. The LoLo measures 40x22x17mm and weighs just 10 grams. The newest version can be turned on and off via a transmitter switch. It outputs to a PC or PDA via an RS232 interface. It would be a great thing to have as long as you could fit it in your plane; the problem is that we all know HLGs have cramped fuselages. It also works well in thermal duration gliders to optimize launch setups. By the way, Oleg just posted some launch heights recorded with the LoLo and his Taboo XL. Out of 12 launches on an average day, here are his results in meters.</blockquote>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" width="50%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>Flight #</strong></td>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>Meters</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">1</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">45.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">2</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">48.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">3</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">52.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">4</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">52.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">5</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">55.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">6</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">7</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">8</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">9</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">10</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">53.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">11</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">52.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">12</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>Average</strong></td>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>51.2m (168ft)</strong></td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>I have to honest. I would have never guessed 50 meters would even be achievable let alone broken. This was a surprise to many HLG enthusiasts. It makes you wonder what your own personal best could be. It is currently available in the USA through F3X.com. For additional specifications, please refer to <a href="http://www.f3x.com/LOLO/LOLO1.htm">F3X's website</a>.</blockquote>
<p><big>Ama Convention 2003</p></big>
<blockquote>For those of you who live in California, I would like to remind you to attend the <a href="http://www.modelaircraft.org/templates/ama/02amaconvindex.asp">AMA Convention in Pasadena</a>. The show runs from January 17, 2003 to January 19, 2003. While it may not be the hotbed of soaring activity and products, it still has a lot to offer. It is a great place to pick up servos, receivers, batteries, and any other support items at discounted prices. For homebuilders, both Aerospace Composites and CST will be there for your vacuum bagging needs. I usually end up dragging home some new fangled parkflyer to play with in the park behind my house.</blockquote>
<p><big>Links To Companies Mentioned In This Article:</p></big>
<blockquote><ul>
<li><a href="http://www.mapleleafdesign.com">Encore DLG</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.polecataero.com">XP3 DLG</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.nesail.com/">NESail (many DLGs and HLGs)</a></li>
</ul></blockquote>
<blockquote>Well that's it for this month. Please, if anyone has any tips or information they would like to share feel free to email me, and I can discus it in the next column. Also, don't be shy; let me know what you want to see or discuss. I am open to any and all ideas. Until then, Good Lift!</blockquote>
<blockquote>Hello, my name is Marc Webster and I share the thermal column here at the LiftZone with George Voss. George and I will share the writing duties by alternating each month. I will be writing mostly HLG related articles, but from time to time, I will focus on articles pertaining to thermal duration flying as well. I am located in Castaic, California and George lives in Oklahoma City. This distance should lend itself well to covering a broad range of what is happening in the thermal and HLG community. As with any sport or hobby, there are many milestones and achievements that stand out, such as making it through your first contest without crashing due to pressure, winning your first club contest, and most definitely, the first time you skied out a HLG from a hand or discus launch.</blockquote>
<blockquote>I have been away from the HLG scene for about two years or so due to an eye injury as well as focusing on my Thermal Duration flying. Boy, have things changed in just a few years! I started flying HLG many years ago with a Windsnake, which was a fiberglass pod and boom glider with SD7037 polyhedral wing that was designed by a friend of mine, Randal Wilson. Remember when 15 ounces was light for a two-servo hand launched glider? Randal improved the Windsnake and eventually ended up selling the rights to Northeast Sailplanes, where it was marketed as the Obsession. I still have my Windsnake gathering dust. Maybe sometime in the future, a nostalgic class HLG event will emerge so I can throw some gear in it and have some fun. As with many others, I later moved up to a DJ Aerotech Wizard and had a lot of fun with it as well. Right about the time I started to focus mainly on TD flying, Dick Barker introduced his Uplink. Boy, this was a drastic change from the normal way of launching. Dick was definitely thinking outside the box when he started to experiment with discus launching and forever changed the sport. Gone are the days of sore shoulders and elbows. Now the playing field has been leveled to flying ability rather than age. I still have my Uplink as well.</blockquote>
<blockquote>So, what am I flying now? Glad you asked! After many hours of research on the net and talking with friends and watching pilots fly DLG at the Visalia Fall Fest, I ended up ordering a Taboo XL from Oleg Golovidov. I hope to have it in the air by the time this article is posted.</blockquote>
<blockquote>So, where is our sport heading? Who knows, but the outlook looks good. Radio equipment keeps getting smaller in leaps and bounds. Just when you think, "That's the smallest servo I have ever seen", somebody has made one smaller and cheaper as well. We can thank the indoor and parkflyer revolution for a good deal of this technology. Discus Launch is definitely here to stay, and it is early enough that many people have many different ideas on how a DLG should be made, which should lend itself to some interesting ideas in the future. This infancy is a good thing since there are not any set rules other than strength, lightweight and maximum launch height. It seems that Thermal Duration gliders have hit a stagnant point where all of the designs resemble each other so much that it is tough to identify one from another at times. This is not necessarily a bad thing, since Thermal Duration gliders have had more time to become optimized to the required flying tasks. However, there are exceptions to the rule as with the Mantis, which is a drastic departure to what everybody else thinks a TD ship should be. I cannot wait to see what exceptions people come up with for DLG as well. Maybe a competitive flying wing is in the future. Only time can tell.</blockquote>
<blockquote>In the upcoming months, I hope to develop a more structured format to this column, with articles about new products of interest to HLG, upcoming contests, flying techniques, design ideas as well as a portion devoted to you, the readers. I would love pictures and specifications of any homebuilt HLGs as well as suggestions for future articles. If you have a design that you plan to kit, then definitely send me any photos with a mini review of the flying characteristics. This column will only evolve if I get feedback from you the readers and I hope to do my best. Now, let's move on to the good stuff!</blockquote>
<p><big>Featured Dlg For December 2002 - Taboo XL</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flapsdown.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flapsdown_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
<td width="50%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/tabookit.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/tabookit_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">Six servo Taboo XL</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">This is a very complete kit!</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>As mentioned above, I have a <a href="http://olgol.com/tabooxl/">Taboo XL</a> on order, and I am busting at the seams waiting for it to arrive. So, what made me choose the Taboo XL? Well there were many factors, such as flying ability, launch ability, design criteria, and the fact that I wanted a Kevlar skinned wing. After searching the net and talking with flying buddies, I narrowed my selection to three possible designs, the Mapleleaf Designs Encore, Polcat Aero's XP3, and Oleg Golovidov's Taboo XL. First, let me say that all three are world class designs, and I hope to own all three in the future, but I eventually decided on the Taboo XL. Another factor was that some members in my club have both Encore's and XP3's, and I would be able to get some real world comparisons between the Taboo XL and the others. I also liked the fact that the Taboo XL is very similar to a DLG that I have designed in AutoCAD and hope to build sometime this winter. The Taboo XL is essentially a pod and boom design, but by using the boom designed for Mark Drela's Allegro, it is quite stiff, and this stiffness is said to increase launch height.</blockquote>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/boomflex.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/boomflex_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">Look at that boom flex!</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>The Taboo XL also uses the most recent series of Drela airfoils (ag45-46-47), which are also used on Mark Drela's Super Gee. In speaking with friends who attended the International Hand launch Glider Festival, the Taboo XL was described as being able to launch to the moon. Oleg consistently had some of the highest launches in the group. I plan to build the Taboo XL as a four servo DLG, and I hope to have some flying reports by the next column. One other thing worth noting is Oleg's impeccable customer service. I used to be a manufacturer and know how hard it is to balance family obligations with filling orders as well as leaving some free time to fly on occasion. Oleg has always taken the time to reply to my emails promptly. Additionally, he has kept me posted as to an estimated ship date of my order. If you are even thinking of ordering a competition class DLG, then do yourself a favor and consider the Taboo XL.</blockquote>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flyoff.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/flyoff_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">Oleg and Joe with Taboos at North Carolina Contest</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>Well, the holidays are almost here, and now is the time to take a stand and tell your significant others what you really want, otherwise, look forward to those socks and ties. Anyway, below are a couple of products that are worth looking into that pertain to DLG and HLG enthusiasts.</blockquote>
<p><big>Hitec Electron 6 Dual Conversion Receiver</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/electron6.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/electron6_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">Nice and small!</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>It looks as if Hitec has done it again. Like many others, I have been using Hitec receivers for some time now, and I have yet to have a bad experience. Aside from their earlier Feather receivers, all of their equipment is well made and can be relied upon at all times. Apparently, the Electron-6 will be replacing the well-liked Hitec 555, but with the added benefit of an extra channel and a weight savings of four grams. For additional specifications, please refer to <a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">Hitec's website</a>. </blockquote>
<p><big>Dymond Modelsports Usa D60 Sub Micro Servo</p></big>
<blockquote>Oleg turned me on to these servos and they are a great find. While they are a bit larger in length and height compared to an HS-55, they are only 8mm (.315") thick, have 24 ounces of torque, and weigh only 8 grams (.28 oz). Due to their reduced thickness and higher torque, they make a great replacement for the HS55 when used as wing servos. For additional specifications, please refer to <a href="http://www.rc-dymond.com">Dymond's website</a>.
</blockquote>
<p><big>Lolo Altitude Data Logger</p></big>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpaddin="4" cellspacing="0" width="80%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center"><a href="/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/lolo.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/liftzone/2002/dec/dlg/lolo_t.jpg" border="2"></a> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="100%" align="center">LoLo data logger</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>This little device can be used to analyze and fine tune launch techniques and plane setups. The LoLo measures 40x22x17mm and weighs just 10 grams. The newest version can be turned on and off via a transmitter switch. It outputs to a PC or PDA via an RS232 interface. It would be a great thing to have as long as you could fit it in your plane; the problem is that we all know HLGs have cramped fuselages. It also works well in thermal duration gliders to optimize launch setups. By the way, Oleg just posted some launch heights recorded with the LoLo and his Taboo XL. Out of 12 launches on an average day, here are his results in meters.</blockquote>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" width="50%" bgcolor="#E6E6E6">
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>Flight #</strong></td>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>Meters</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">1</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">45.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">2</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">48.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">3</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">52.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">4</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">52.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">5</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">55.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">6</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">7</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">8</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">9</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">10</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">53.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">11</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">52.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center">12</td>
<td width="50%" align="center">51.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>Average</strong></td>
<td width="50%" align="center"><strong>51.2m (168ft)</strong></td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<blockquote>I have to honest. I would have never guessed 50 meters would even be achievable let alone broken. This was a surprise to many HLG enthusiasts. It makes you wonder what your own personal best could be. It is currently available in the USA through F3X.com. For additional specifications, please refer to <a href="http://www.f3x.com/LOLO/LOLO1.htm">F3X's website</a>.</blockquote>
<p><big>Ama Convention 2003</p></big>
<blockquote>For those of you who live in California, I would like to remind you to attend the <a href="http://www.modelaircraft.org/templates/ama/02amaconvindex.asp">AMA Convention in Pasadena</a>. The show runs from January 17, 2003 to January 19, 2003. While it may not be the hotbed of soaring activity and products, it still has a lot to offer. It is a great place to pick up servos, receivers, batteries, and any other support items at discounted prices. For homebuilders, both Aerospace Composites and CST will be there for your vacuum bagging needs. I usually end up dragging home some new fangled parkflyer to play with in the park behind my house.</blockquote>
<p><big>Links To Companies Mentioned In This Article:</p></big>
<blockquote><ul>
<li><a href="http://www.mapleleafdesign.com">Encore DLG</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.polecataero.com">XP3 DLG</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.nesail.com/">NESail (many DLGs and HLGs)</a></li>
</ul></blockquote>
<blockquote>Well that's it for this month. Please, if anyone has any tips or information they would like to share feel free to email me, and I can discus it in the next column. Also, don't be shy; let me know what you want to see or discuss. I am open to any and all ideas. Until then, Good Lift!</blockquote>