By Garth Calitz

The Fun n Sun weekend almost turned into a Fun n Splash weekend when the skies opened up on Friday night, prompting pilots to quickly move their prized aircraft into hangars. Thankfully, Rustenburg residents were more than willing to accommodate as many as possible. Despite the bad weather, spirits remained high, and everyone enjoyed a lively evening of conversation at the Rustenburg Flying Club clubhouse.

Early on Saturday morning, the weather appeared quite dismal, which unfortunately kept many aviators at their home bases. By 10 am, the clouds began to clear, and the weather remained favorable for the rest of the day, allowing approximately twenty-five aircraft to make the journey. Many opted to drive instead of risking a flight in the unpredictable weather.

Paul Lustrucci extended a warm welcome to everyone at the event on behalf of the EAA. Karl Jensen engaged and informed the audience about the weekend's events. Interestingly, Karl was among the pilots who chose to drive instead of fly.

EAA Fun n Sun initially began in Rustenburg many years ago, then moved around the country for a few years. Eventually, it was held in Brits for five years, and this year it made a much-anticipated return to Rustenburg. The Rustenburg community went above and beyond to ensure the weekend was comfortable and enjoyable.

Century Avionics and Comet Aviation participated in the event, showcasing all their latest products. The continuous support from aviation-related companies is essential for the success of events like the one we experienced this weekend.

Roston Dugmore, our talented Junior World F3A Aerobatics World Champion, impresses everyone with his skills using the Extra 300. What he accomplishes with this aircraft is truly remarkable. Roston is set to compete in the World Championships in Argentina later this year.

A Fun Adventure Rally was organized by Rob Jonkers and Mari Reddy, featuring seven turning points and, for the first time, an ANR route. The ANR course challenges pilots to fly through a narrow corridor that zig-zags without a specific destination. Each leg includes a few historical and geographical questions that add to the enjoyment while enhancing the flying and navigation skills of the competing teams. A spot landing contest is also part of the competition, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Ron and Dusty Strik, the father and son duo, secured top honors even though they faced difficulties with a severe storm cell during the ANR section, flying in a C152.

In second place was the young duo of Greg Clegg and Keaton Perkins in Greg's Jodel D11.

Pierre Dippenaar and Martin Meyer took third place in a C182

Niel Terblanche and Danielle Coetzer secured fourth place using a borrowed Icarus C42 and also achieved first place in the spot landing competition.

Fifteen teams participated, and the outcome was unanimous: they all agreed it was a great test, lots of fun, and they plan to do it again soon.

The flying activities decreased on Saturday afternoon as everyone headed to the clubhouse to watch the Rugby test between the Springboks and the All Blacks. Unfortunately, the Boks lost by one point, but this didn't dampen the spirits at all.

Following an excellent breakfast on Sunday morning, all the visitors took to the skies and returned home. We extend our gratitude to everyone at Rustenburg Flying Club for making this Fun n Sun event truly special, despite the uncooperative weather.