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Al Parsons and Rick Eckel preparing for a flight
Al Parsons launches his sailplane using an electric winch.
The Orlando Buzzards are a non-profit fraternal organization established for the enjoyment by its members of radio control soaring. The members participate in both competition and sport flying of model sailplanes. Members build and fly gliders of all sizes – ranging from as small as 24 inch wingspan to some over 16 feet across. These soaring machines are usually launched into the air with an electric winch to begin a flight. At that point the pilot steers the airplane to where he believes there are rising currents of air to keep his model aloft. Sometimes flights can last for over an hour and in good conditions even a beginner can keep his sailplane airborne for a long time.
Winners of the Gentle Lady Challenge 2005
