It is with great pride and joy that I get to congratulate Michel Leusch on his new title. WORLD INTERMEDIATE AEROBATIC CHAMPION.

The event was not without its interruptions from the weather as two competition program flights could not be completed. I doubt if it would have had any effect on Michel’s overall score but for the rest it could have.

The feedback from every pilot who flew was positive and we all learned a lot from the experience. Some local pilots had their first introduction to international judges and this would be very valuable going forward to prepare for future comps around the world.

The British Pilots could not believe how they were treated as celebrities in Swellendam by the town locals. "We can only try but will fail to make you guys feel as welcome in the UK compared to the South African experience" they said. The New Zealand team manager wished they had our energy as they can only scrape two competitions together a year.

It is very clear that the South African Aerobatic scene is in a healthy condition by comparison to other Nations. Obviously we still have areas where we would like to improve.

Another feather in our cap - Team RSA received First place overall.

I have to congratulate every person who was involved with the team. I am convinced that this achievement will help with the growth of the SAC amongst new and old members alike.  Different Team Managers commented on how well we worked together as a team. 

Special thanks to Glen Warden who has done so much to organize the training camp at Oudtshoorn and the sponsored clothing furthermore, Pierre Du Plooy for sponsored clothing and Jacques Du Plooy for the sponsored Oil.