To give some scope to the size of the event, there were over 14,000 spectators and over 400 planes there during the four day gathering. Flying space included five active runways, covering general aviation, glider towing, powered parachutes, powered paragliders and two fixed wing runways. The feeling of excitement in the air, when so many aircraft congregate, is thrilling, yet, not scary. Every pilot knows that patterns are important, and safety comes first. From the fastest, sleekest trike to the slowest, most maneuverable, powered parachute, they danced in the air all day, each day, to the excitement of all present.
Every year brings new and different vehicles and people together to compete.
Gun slinging brings its own form of challenge match. The key players all know that the best are not just winners, but winners with staying power. In Gun slinging, the goal is to challenge the leader, win, and then hold on to the lead as long as possible. The national honors where also hard fought. Dave Ahlberg was the overall winner in the open class of competition.