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Well, Agnes and I had a fabulous time at the F3A Open competition in Columbia. We would like to thank all the people involved with organizing the event, especially Eduardo and Ricardo and making it possible for us to attend.

The contest was very well organized and the level of competition was very high. I personally finished in 5th place. Although I am not happy with that result, I did feel that I flew very well during the competition. All the rounds were very close, and I am sure anyone could have won the contest at any point with a bit of luck!

It was great to catch up with some old friends as well as make a lot of new ones. The contest was more relaxed and fun than say a World Championships, where there is always a lot of stress. With the bar right on site we had plenty of time to enjoy a few cerveza and great food while waiting for the next round to start! I definitely had the most fun at this contest that I have ever had flying F3A.

As with any contest you always learn something about your own flying as well as things to try to keep improving. I managed to take home with me a few tips both for my flying and a few ideas to try on my airplane to make it fly even better. With this level of competition in F3A any small improvement can make a significant impact to your overall results.

Agnes also really enjoyed herself. The hotel facility is fantastic for the wives, and as well the shopping in Medellin and Rionegro is great. Agnes managed to find herself many pairs of nice leather shoes and accessories, at much better pricing than we can get in Canada.

I would recommend attending this event to anyone thinking of going. The country is perfectly safe and the organizers make all the arrangements to transport you to the hotel. From that point you need no vehicle. The facility is fantastic as well! I understand they plan to hold the event again in 2012, as next year is the 2011 World Championships, and making two major trips for most people is not possible.

I have taken the time to post a number of our better pictures on my Picasa account here,

Colombia F3A Open

Hope you enjoy!
Chad