November 2012 by 'Sarah Gill

HOVERCRAFT Light

November 2012

The official magazine of the

Hovercraft Club of Great Britain www.hovercraft.org.uk

November12 inside

Well hello November!!!

The dark nights begin to draw in, and its time to hide in the darkness of your home whilst the local children bash on the door shouting ‘trick or treat’, take out a second mortgage for the 30minutes of enjoyment that fireworks bring, and start to ‘moan’ about every other advert on TV being about Christmas!!!! On a more positive note the Light Hovercraft Magazine hits the doormat to brighten up the darkest and dreariest night!!! I’m not sure about you guys, but 2012 appears to be whistling by like a runaway train, with Christmas hiding just over the hill. In reflection 2012 has been a brilliant year to be British, both the Olympics and Para-Olympics being a huge success, possibly the greatest Olympics to date, Rio 2016 will have a long way to go top what has gone this year. Our medal count also was equally impressive to match! Jess Enis, Mo Farah, Sir Chris Hoy bring home gold to name a few!! Bradley Wiggins and Team Sky got us all wanting to get our bicycles out once again, with Bradley Wiggins leading Chris

04 Diary It’s a date

Saturday night!! June sees us return to Cholmondeley Castle, for the Pageant of Power in Chester. This venue should give us a perfect platform to showcase our great sport. With an expected 30,000+ visitors wondering through the grounds, this gives us the perfect opportunity to put on a great show and try to swell our numbers.

With 2013 heading at us like a mad juggernaut, the racing calender appears to be taking shape nicely, kicking off at ‘sunny’ Accrington in May! Following on the heels we return to Hacketts Lake, and I’m assured that local band ‘The Score’ have already been booked for the

Enjoy the magazine!!

11 You can race this craft Daniel Turnbull

05 Chairman’s Desk The latest update from our chairman Letters to the editor Bill Baker 06 Hovercraft federation Tony Drake The Hov Pod is a 3-seat factory assembled personal leisure cruising hovercraft No kits available, sorry. Commercial craft available.

Frome home for Tour-de-France first and second. Andy Murray joined the party, winning a gold in the Olympic singles then claiming his first Grand Slam win. I’m a harsh critic of Murray, but winning a Grand Slam title with the shadows of Messers Federer, Djokovic and Nadal cast over you is an achievement in it’s self, I’m no tennis buff, but I’m certain this sport has never had four so dominating and talented players around in the same era. Golf, not everyone’s cup of tea, but the achievement of Team Europe on the final day of the Ryder Cup was monumental. When Luke Donald stood at the 1st tee at 11.03am Sunday morning, facing a deficit of 10-6, no one really expected to see a tearful Jose Maria Olazabal pointing to the heavens to his great friend Seve Ballesteros, basking in the glory and atmosphere of a truly magnificent victory. A few breathtaking moments, from a truly memorable year of sport.

Midland’s Fun Night Daniel Turnbull 12 Just for fun Darren Clarke 40 Years ago Granville Spedding 14 Driver Profile Sarah Foster

On the cruising side of things, the Recreational Committee are working overtime to put together a full calendar of events. Reading the forum pages Russ Pullen has a whole host of ideas which all appear to be coming together nicely. 2013 appears to be shaping up nicely, with that maybe its time we all started thinking about getting into the garage and getting ready in advance!!! Wishful thinking really, we are the HCGB and no sport does it as well as we do at the last minute!!!

Darren and Sarah

Craft for sale Razor Racing

21 Hovercraft for sale www.hovercraft.org.uk

15 Hovercraft industry Russ Pullen 16 AGM March 2013 17 Across the pond Holland 20 Merchandise Jo Discoll

For further details Web-site www.hovpod.com Email sales@hovpod.com Cover Pic: Sarah Foster Photo taken by: James Eddy LightHovercraft 02

www.hovercraft.org.uk

LightHovercraft 03

Diary 2013

The Chairman’s Desk Chapter Eighteen, planning

Another month has shot by and we are heading in to winter. This is meant to be the time for shed based work and quiet thoughts on next year’s improvements. I am obviously doing something wrong. I am out every weekend and some weekdays with hovercraft.

MARCH 9-10

AUGUST 5-11

AGM and Symposium Hilton Hotel, Northampton www.hovercraft.org.uk

Proposed Internationl Championship Antalya/Turkey - Europe www.hovercraft.org.uk

MAY 4-6

AUGUST 17-24

National race meeting Magnolls Farm, Lancs. www.hovercraft.org.uk

North West Highland Cruise Lochcarron, Isle of Skye www.hovercraft.org.uk

MAY 25-27

AUGUST 24-26

National Race Meeting Hackett Lakes, Notts www.hovercraft.org.uk

National Race Meeting Gang Warily, Fawley www.hovercraft.org.uk

One week later Diane and I arrived with two hovercraft at a hotel near Southampton to give the guests at Fay Smallwood’s wedding some entertainment. We had a terrific afternoon on the adjacent cricket pitch and Jamie Lewenden and Steve Walsh gave rides in one hovercraft while I gave some of the guests a very quick lesson in the other.

JUNE 15-16

SEPTEMBER 7-8

This general theme is set to continue for some time over the winter.

National Race Meeting Cholmondeley Castle, Malpas www.hovercraft.org.uk

National Race Meeting Rother Valley, Sheffield www.hovercraft.org.uk

Jim Waddell is quietly progressing the involvement of Schools and Colleges in the Devon area in the building of hovercraft and has my support.

JUNE 29-30

SEPTEMBER 21-22

Russ Pullen is planning more club cruising events and we should see some dates for the calendar.

Possible Race Meeting TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

National Race Meeting Towcester Racecourse www.hovercraft.org.uk

Louise Beale has issued the racing event calendar on the website already.

JULY 13-14

OCTOBER 5-6

Possible Race Meeting TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

In early October I spent an enjoyable weekend with friends, family and hovercraft on a charity event in Newport in Wales. I found out that there used to be a Newport Hovercraft Club as well. The following weekend we had a corporate event in our field. On 20th October we had a party in the field for Angus’s 18th Birthday and several club members stayed over for a little bit of hovercraft play time.

The Competitions Committee and Scrutineers committee should be reporting soon. There is an EHF meeting this month. Next Year we need to encourage newer members to fire their enthusiasm and get involved with the running of the club.

JULY 27-28 Possible Race Meeting TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

I have received several comments on how badly I have led the club but most of these are from those who will not offer their efforts to improve the club for others. This March is the time to stand up and volunteer your expertise and time and help progress the club. The AGM is on 9th March 2013. If you wish to discuss anything, my contact details are at the back of the magazine.

Whilst every attempt is made to keep calender items up to date, some calender items may alter after print or the Editor is not made aware of changes-please check relevant UK or European websites for most up to date calenders. If you know of any changes or updates, or wish an event to be listed, then please contact the Editor at magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

LightHovercraft Published by The hovercraft Club of Great Britain Ltd www.hovercraft.org.uk Editors Darren Clarke Sarah Gill

Advertising Rates Issues 1 3 Size 1/4 pg £9 £26 1/2 pg £17 £49 Full pg £33 £95

Distribution Roger Allman Tel: 07765 303755 Contributions Last date for contributions is the of a month. LightHovercraft 04

Printed by ADH printing 2 Boyne Rise Kingsworthy Winchester Hants SO23 7RE

20th

12 £95 £184 £357

Contact the Editor for details at magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

Small adverts are free to HCGB members and run for three issues unless reqested otherwise. The opinions expressed in any item or article in this magazine are those of the contributor. They do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or policies of the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain Ltd. The entire contents of Light Hovercraft are copyright and permission to reproduce any part must be sought from the Editor. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, we do not accept any responsibility for any inaccuracy.

www.hovercraft.org.uk

Chris

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear all, I was watching the film transmission of the World Championships, when I was made aware of the tragic death of Michael Feulner. I have attached a photo of the two Michaels, Feulner and Metzner and Robin Brickles, taken in happier www.hovercraft.org.uk

times in Sweden . I have happy memories when in the earlier years all the Feulner family came to the races father sons and a daughter they were good times In spite of or because of the language differences. Feulner senior and I struck a particular friendship borrowing things from each other at meetings Popnit machina? Was a popular comment.

the names correct, with Andreas and Matthias in FS Gerfried and Michael in F2 and Johann in F1 there father had his work cut out . I hope you will pass on to the Feulners the condolences of the Baker Family, as I have no direct link these days. Regards Rosemary, Rupert, & Bill.

If I am honest there were so many of them I am not sure I got LightHovercraft 05

He was a driver from 1989 ~ 2000. From 2001 to date he has been President and Race Director for HvD, and Chairman of the Munchen Hovercraft Club; EHF Sports Commissar; Race Director at forty National or EHF race meetings; Assistant or Race Director to five World Hovercraft Championships; Chairman of the EHF Scrutineering Committee. He has constructed race support equipment, developed timing software and been very active in noise measurement and control. We hope you agree a very worthy recipient.

The welcome everyone received was fantastic. The organisation was superb which made for racing of the highest standard and produced very worthy World Champions. In summary the whole event was a perfect balance between social activities and racing. Our reigning World Champions are now:

We all accept that any motor sport can be dangerous and we will be examining everything surrounding Michael’s tragic accident to see if there is anything we can learn to further minimise the risk of death or serious injury in our sport.

F1 Michael Metzner (Germany) F2 Joint Champions: Magnus Ivanoff (Sweden) & Denis Ragot (France) FS Chris Barlow (Great Britain) F35 Jake Cooper (Great Britain) F50 Fabien Santoulange (France) FJ Lucas Hall (Sweden)

Kind regards,

And our congratulations go to them all. (Full results can be found on the WHF website at www.worldhovercraftfederation.org )

Tony M. Drake JP. President of the World Hovercraft Federation. P.S. As usual this Bulletin will be circulated to as many people as possible but please pass it on to anyone who you think may be interested.

LightHovercraft 06

In conclusion this was a very, very tragic racing accident with a fatal result and no blame can or should be apportioned to anyone.

WHF Award for Excellence. From time to time the WHF presents its prestigious “Award for Excellence”. This time it was presented by our President to Michael Rausch, by coincidence, from Germany at the World Championships in Saalburg. The citation on the award says it all:

WHF 2012 meeting.

Full minutes of the WHF Delegates meeting can be found on our website at www.worldhovercraftfederation.org There are several outstanding matters, listed below, that were agreed to be resolved by e-mail. These will be discussed and resolved between member Country Delegates, after consulting with others, over the coming weeks. If you have any views on these issues please discuss them immediately with your Country Delegate.

- Germany proposed that the rules concerning crash helmets, life jackets and back protections should be strengthened. - Protest procedures to be reviewed. - Competition Regulations rule 7.3.G. to be reviewed and rewritten. - How should the race course be defined? - The WHF Director of Endurance Racing will be submitting future development plans.

And Finally ~ We are vey pleased to welcome Austria to the World Hovercraft Federation. Their details can be found on the following page. We can also inform you that Paul Hibbard is accepted as the new Vice President Asia.

- Sweden proposed to change the point system when heats are needed. At the moment the difference in points between 1st and 3rd place are too big.

Johnscriven@msn.com

For your information our Member Country Delegates are: Australia (2) Peter Streader peter.streader@thomson.net Belgium (2) Jos Vanderhoven jos.vanderhoven@gmail.com Canada (2) Ross Wease rwease@gmail.com Denmark (1) Uffe Andersen uffeandersen@hovercraftclub.dk France (2) Denis Ragot rpm@wanadoo.fr Germany (2) Michael Rausch rausch@luftkissen.de Great Britain (2) Chris Barlow chrisbarlow@vfast.co.uk Indonesia (1) Soegiarto Soejatono soejatono@yahoo.com Ireland (2) David Ryan hoverireland@yahoo.ie Italy (2) Michele Scanavino mikiscanavino@libero.it Japan (1) Kazutoyo Matsuda matsuda7@mb.infoweb.ne.jp Japan (1) Japan Hovercraft Ass jhover@hovercraft.or.jp Lebanon (1) Houssam Chamseddine calaw@cyberia.net.lb Mauritius (1) Siegi Scherrer hovercraft@intnet.mu Netherlands (2) Christel Martens martens.hovercraft.nl@wxs.nl Norway (1) Ornulf Ostbye hovercraftunion@bluezone.no Poland (2) Jakub Furmanski biuro@pudoszkowce.pl Portugal (1) Mario Gonzaga Ribeira fpm@fpmmotonautica.org Slovakia (2) Jaroslav Balaz info@vznasadla.com Slovenia (0) Alex Muha info@hovercraft-club.si South Africa (1) Francois Malan f.malan@hotmail.com Sweden (2) Magnus Ivanoff magnus@hovercraft.se Turkey (0) Tayfun Sert tayfun@tic.at USA (2) Kent Gano kentgano@bellsouth.net (*) number of votes each country has.

FT, HELP!! A R

Please inform our Secretary, Christel Martens, if your country has made any changes.

PARTS A

Looking for the original photo as need the best quality for personal use

His total dedication to sporting hovercraft in his own country, Europe and world wide. An outstanding man who has given so much to support and develop our sport.

www.hovercraft.org.uk

Delegate

- France proposed that aggressive drivers (driving like bulls) should be penalised.

TS SKIR

The WHF would like to record its thanks to the Hoverclub of Germany and in particular BGS Sport Event (Klaus Bönighausen, Thomas Grabowski and Roy Stache) for organising our recent World Hovercraft Championships.

Sadly, any report on the 2012 BGS World Championships would not be complete without a mention of the accident that lead to the death of Michael Feulner. The incident arose when three craft were close together on the racing line on the first land to water transition. Both engines of the lead craft cut out on the land immediately before the water. The second craft driven by Michael Feulner went over the first craft

The police immediately sealed off the craft and scene and began collecting information, evidence and statements. Their investigations were thorough and incisive ranging from documentation, safety procedures, and drivers safety equipment etc. The final conclusion was that tragically Michael Feulner died as the result of a hovercraft racing accident and that no fault was found with the drivers, organisation, marshal support or safety procedures, and more importantly no criminal prosecutions would follow.

Regrettably, so far we have not received any bids to host the World Championships in 2014. If your country is proposing to make a bid please inform the WHF Secretary within the next six months. If needed there are guidance notes available to down load from our website at www. worldhovercraftfederation.org . Alternatively, advice is always available from the President, Secretary, Technical Director or the WHF Vice Presidents.

- France proposed that for safety reasons each continent should send the WHF a letter which shows their drivers have a least run two international races in the year of a World Championship. An alternative suggestion was made by Germany that a WHF hovercraft racing licence is needed and that only authorised countries should be able to issue these after investigating the driving history of applicants to see if they meet WHF requirements.

D N

BGS Sport Event ~ World Hovercraft Championship 2012.

At WHF events it now seems quite normal to have marshals and officials from many countries working closely together and supporting the host country. This just goes to show what strength and depth we have in the Federation. It is also comforting to know that this expertise is available to new and emerging member Countries who will hopefully be hosting future World Championships. Again the WHF would like to record their thanks to all who help in this way.

at considerable speed forcing it into the water. Michael and his craft were then struck with force by the third craft which was closely following. A red flag was immediately shown and two marshals were at the scene of the accident within 4.2 seconds of it happening and pulled Michael from the wreckage. Paramedics were on the scene very shortly after but were unable to revive Michael.

- France maintains their view that when only 6 craft are registered in a formula there should not be a World title.

HOVE RC

I write the introduction to this Bulletin with very mixed emotions. We had a wonderful reception and fantastic racing at the BGS World Championships in Saalburg, Germany but this was marred by the tragic F 2 accident in which Michael Feulner lost his life. Michael’s death has affected us all greatly and our thoughts and sympathies are with Michael’s wife, family and friends at this very sad time.

Future WHF World Hovercraft Championships.

- France proposed a prize to honour hull/craft manufacturers.

Franciscusstraat 41 6681 VP Bemmel The Netherlands Tel: +31 481-450471 worldhovercraftfederation@planet.nl

Please contact either: johnscriven@msn.com or funkydarkangel@hotmail.com

RAZOR

www.hovercraft.org.uk

RACING

LightHovercraft 07 www.hovercraft.org.uk

Christel Martens, Secretary. Franciscusstraat 41 6681 VP Bemmel The Netherlands Tel: +31 (0) 481 450471 worldhovercraftfederation@planet.nl

Minutes of the 2012 World Hovercraft Federation Board meeting on Monday September 17th at Saalburg, Germany 9:30 am Present: Chris Barlow, Great Britain James Lewendon, Great Britain Techn. dir. Jaroslav Balaz, Slovakia Owen Ellis, Australia dir. Endurance Racing Kent Gano, USA, WHF VP, Americas Henk Martens, Netherlands Margret Heinze, Germany Tony Drake, Great Britain, WHF President Bob Rennick, Canada Christel Martens, Netherlands, WHF secretary Jakub Furmanski, Poland Michele Scanavino, Italy Klaus Bonighausen, Germany Frank Creamers, Belgium Conrad Beale, Great Britain 12.01 Welcome by the President - Tony Drake opened the meeting, 10 minutes later than scheduled because only a few countries where present. 12.02 Apologies for absence - Apologies for absence where received from David Ryan Ireland, Francois Malan - South Africa, Andrew Stelzhammer - Austria, Jos Vanderhoven Belgium gave their vote to Frank Creamers. Denis Ragot - France gave their vote to Michele Scanavino, Magnus Ivanoff LightHovercraft 08

Sweden gave their vote to Michele Scanavino 12.03 President’s WHF board report (including financial report) I would like to start my report by offering both my and the WHF’s sincere condolences and sympathies to the family and friends of Michael Feulner who, as you all know, sadly died in a racing accident last Friday. He will be sadly missed by his family and all that knew him.

weather in England at the time was atrocious with high winds and torrential rain. In fact the weather was so bad the planned World Hovercraft Federation speed trials had to be cancelled. Interestingly, this was the first time we have held our World Championships at two different locations, at two different times AND in two different countries. While I would not particularly advocate this it certainly shows what some lateral thinking can do.

On a lighter note I would like to record my thanks to the Hoverclub of Germany and in particular BGS Sport Event (Klaus Bönighausen, Thomas Grabowski and Roy Stache) for organising our recent World Hovercraft Championships. The welcome we received was fantastic. The organisation was superb which made for racing of the highest standard and produced very worthy World Champions. In summary the whole event was a perfect balance between social activities and racing.

At WHF events it now seems quite normal to have marshals and officials from many countries working closely together and supporting the host country. This just goes to show what strength and depth we have in the World Federation. It is also comforting to know that this expertise is available to new emerging member Countries who will hopefully be hosting future World Championships. I would like to record my thanks to all who help in this way.

It is always dangerous to talk about individuals but would also like to say a special “thank you” to Susanne Bösche. Susanne has been the key contact for many of us before the Championships. Her patience, professionalism, and help has been invaluable and appreciated by everyone.

I would like to record my personal thanks to our Vice Presidents who have given me support during my recent term of office. But in particular my thanks go to Christel Martens, our Secretary and Treasurer, without whose help my role as President would be almost impossible.

It should not be forgotten that the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain organised our World Championship Endurance Race earlier this year. I am very grateful to them for this, particularly as the

It will not have escaped your notice that we have rationalised our administrative publications and rewritten our technical documents. On behalf of the WHF I must sincerely thank Jamie Lewendon, www.hovercraft.org.uk

our Technical Director, for this. For his outstanding achievement in drawing together the hovercraft technical requirements from Clubs and Organisations from around the world, harmonising them and gaining agreement from all. It was a monumental task and one which was long overdue and will stand us in good stead for the future. With any world wide federation it is essential to have a good website both for communications and contact between ourselves and attracting and developing new member countries. Cathy Godicheau, from France is our Web Master and on behalf of everyone in the WHF I would like to say a huge thank you to Cathy for maintaining such an efficient and professional web site for us. It is a superb, impressive and modern website and one Cathy should be very proud of. Financially our Federation is in a fairly healthy position due entirely to the generosity of our Board members who over the past few years have not made any claims for business expenses. In my view it is important to retain this healthy position for those who will follow who may not be in such a fortunate position. After the last Board meeting we had a balance of 120 GB pounds and 943.41 €uro. Since then we have spent £30 on software for producing our new publications. We have also received 475 €uro from the drivers entry fee levy at the 2012 World Championships. The Treasurer and I have decided that this will not as normal go into our funds but will be given to the family of Michael Feulner. To some of us it may seem a strange thing to do but this is the custom in this part of Germany. This leave us with 90 GB pounds and 943.41€uro. This year for the first time F3 was excluded from the Championships. In my view this was a retrograde step and in the www.hovercraft.org.uk

future if at all possible F3 should be included in the programme. We must be as inclusive as possible for the good of and strength of the World Hovercraft Federation. As an organisation we are far too small to start excluding drivers and hovercraft. While I fully accept that the largest number and concentration of sporting hovercraft is in Europe I firmly believe that from time to time it is essential for the creditability of our World Championship that we should hold an event outside of Europe. I am looking for and asking for countries outside of Europe to come forward to host future World Championships and can promise them all the help and support they need. Another thing that concerns me is the frequency of our World Hovercraft Championships. I know that this is an agenda item for our meeting so suffice it to say I fully support and endorse the proposal from Holland. We should be pragmatic now and when the world’s economic situation improves we could always return to a two yearly cycle. I would like to reflect for a few moments on the European Hovercraft Federation. In many ways they are facing the same challenges in terms of venues and support as we do. I sense that they are in decline with only two events this year, one in France and the other in Great Britain. It may be they are also suffering from the frequency of our World Championships. However, I am sure with some lateral thinking they can re-build their Federation events for the future and the World Hovercraft Federation will offer all the help we can. On another sad note I have to report the death Jon Flidh from Norway. Anyone that new Jon will remember him as an active member of the WHF for many

years representing both Norway and Portugal. Jon passed away last December. He was found in his beloved workshop no doubt after working on one of his many engines. My report would not be complete without a mention of the accident that lead to the death of Michael Feulner. It is a great relief to know that the German police and investigators have yesterday reported that they found no fault with the organisation, safety procedures or our marshalling response and have recorded it as a tragic racing accident and very importantly no criminal prosecutions will follow. All our racing documents, log books, insurance and scrutineering were in good order. Our marshalling response was exemplary - the response time of our marshals to the accident scene has been established from video evidence to be just 4.2 seconds. All this just demonstrates that it is essential we rigorously follow our published regulations and procedures along with any that are mandatory in the host’s country. I ask all our member countries to review their own regulations to ensure they are equal to ours. Although not relevant to the accident I would ask that we all review the way in which we assess the competency of our drivers before issuing hovercraft driving licences as I believe that this may be an area in which some countries are vulnerable. On a happier and very positive note we were very, very fortunate to have so many Juniors at our recent Championships. We must do everything possible to support and encourage them and as many others as we can. They are our future. With many Clubs around the world contracting by losing their older members this is the very best way of ensuring a strong and continuing future. I know that the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain is embarking on very ambitious LightHovercraft 09

junior and youth programmes and am sure they will be pleased to share their ideas with you. At our last Board Meeting we were asked to communicate with as many individual World Championship participants as possible. I am pleased to report that this is now happening. Our Secretary now, with some difficulties it has to be said, regularly circulates our Bulletins and other documents to all those we have on our data base. I hope it has encouraged discussion within our member Countries clubs and organisations and through their representatives have a direct input to the WHF. Also, last time we asked our member Countries to prepare a report on their past years activities and submit them to the Board Meeting. This time I am asking you to prepare the same report but we will publish them in our next Bulletin. I think it is very useful if not vital that we should be aware of what we are all doing ~ there will frequently be something that perhaps we can all learn. In conclusion, I am proud to have been your President during my past term of office and represent the World Hovercraft Federation. I am proud to be actively involved with our sport ~ I hope you are too. Thank you. 12.04 Election of Officers. - The following were agreed as office holders until the next Board meeting: President, Tony Drake Vice President Europe, Magnus Ivanoff Vice President Americas, Kent Gano Technical Director, James Lewendon Secretary/Treasurer, Christel Martens Director Endurance Racing, Owen Ellis Vice President Africa & Vice President Asia, vacant LightHovercraft 10

12.05 Any appeals to the Board arising from WHC 2012 - One protest was received. This was from Magnus Ivanoff against the penalty he received in the penultimate F2 race. He sited Competition Rule 7.3.G. complaining that it had wrongly been applied. After discussion the Board members by a vote of 5 in favour, 3 against and 4 abstentions, upheld Magnus’s appeal and therefore the penalty removed. There was no criticism of the original protest committees’ decision as the Board were convinced that the initial protest was not clearly defined and the protest committee were not directed to the appropriate rule. - As a result of this decision the positions of the F2 Championship will need to be re-calculated. - The Technical director has been asked to look at the rule, 7.3.G and make a proposal to rewrite the rule. 12.06 Host for future World Championships - At this time there are no proposals. 12.07 Frequency of future World Championships - Members present gave their view and the frequency for future World Championships will stay at every 2 years. If no Country offers to host the next World Championship it will automatically move 1 year forward. 12.08 Any Other Emergency Business - Andrew Stelzhammer asked if Austria could be a WHF member, the meeting agreed and we welcome Austria as a new member. - The WHF Technical Director ask for it to be recorded that he was pleased to see both the French and English teams had totally complied with the revised WHF

regulations and procedures (log books and compliance check list etc.) But was disappointed to see that other had not, in particular the event scrutineers did not use the new WHF safety check list. - All other business that is mentioned below will be discussed and resolved by e-mail. -Sweden proposed to change the point system when heats are needed. At the moment the difference in points between 1st and 3th place are to big. -France proposed a prize to honour hull/craft manufacturers. -France maintains their view that when only 6 craft are registered in a formula there should not be a World title. -France proposed that for safety reasons each continent should send the WHF a letter which shows their drivers have a least run two international races in the year of a World Championship. An alternative suggestion was made by Germany that a WHF hovercraft racing licence is needed and that only authorised countries should be able to issue these after investigating the driving history of applicants to see if they meet WHF requirements. -France proposed that aggressive drivers (driving like bulls) should be penalised. -Germany proposed that the rules concerning crash helmets, life jackets and back protections should be strengthened. -Protest procedures to be reviewed. -Competition Regulations rule 7.3.G. to be reviewed and rewritten. -How should the race course be defined? -The WHF Director of Endurance Racing will be submitting future development plans. The President thanked everyone for attending and participating in the meeting, and the meeting closed at 11.30 am.

www.hovercraft.org.uk

YOU CAN RACE THIS HOVERCRAFT This could be you! Learn to drive, compete, and gain that crucial experience of racing before you purchase your own machine. A craft is available that has been specifically built for new members to have a go at racing. It is a simple single engined craft suitable for new Novices and Juniors, and is available at most race meetings. The skill and insight you gain will be valuable in deciding what type of craft you may wish to build or buy in future. This craft comes with its own trailer, and has a race kit of spares and consumables to see you through a race weekend. You will need to provide: • towbar and number-plate • helmet • buoyancy aid/life jacket • overalls and gloves • petrol • race entry fee • boundless enthusiasm!

For more information on hovercraft visit http://www.hovercraft.org.uk

Midland’s Branch Fun Night Everyone is invited to the annual Midland’s Branch Fun Night on Saturday 8th December 2012 at the Barrowupon-Soar Conservative Club, LE12 8QA from 7.30pm

Knock-out skittles competition, quiz, buffet and raffle – all monies raised to Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance. Any donations of raffle prizes gratefully received.

Hot food and drink are often available on site. Warm waterproof clothing is recommended suitable for the British weather. At least one change of clothes is recommended, you may well get wet. A donation towards the upkeep of the craft is recommended at £50 for a 2 day race meeting.

Tickets for the event are £8.50 for adults and £5 for under 16s – this includes a buffet and entry into the skittles competition.

Club Membership and provisional Novice racing Licence will be required. Get membership at www.hovercraft.org.uk, you will need to register, and then add a paid subscription. Buy your Novice racing licence from the Racing Services area in the club shop, which can also be accessed from www.hovercraft.org.uk Any queries contact memberservices@hovercraft.org.uk You will also need to pass a manoeuvrability test before racing.

Contact Dan Turnbull by 30th November 2012 on 01332 700658 or danielturnbull@btinternet. com

If you would like a go or to find out more, contact Daniel Turnbull Tel 01332 700658 danielturnbull@btinternet.com

www.hovercraft.org.uk

LightHovercraft 11

Don’t write in, it’s just for fun!!! My dear old Dad, in between his five visits to the golf course a week, gardening, and watching every sport Skysports, ESPN and Eurosport has to offer writes pub quizzes, which he distributes to pubs and working mens clubs. When myself, and my brother visit our parents this quite often descends into the Clarke families’ very own version of ‘A Question of Sport’!! My Dad, even though he won’t admit it, has become something of a hovercraft fan. He claims he isn’t, but when we visit the weekend after a race meeting he’ll comment on the close racing between Nick Drew and Conrad Beale, or as good as Dan Turnbull is, does he not get bored of not racing anyone?!?!?!?! Or more mockingly ‘was the water warm son?’. Anyway please find below some samples of my Dad’s handy work, and welcome to my world!

11)What is Tiger Woods Christian name?

13)At which ski resort would you see the Cresta Run? 14)Name the last four British Formula One World Champions? 15)What colour is the centre scoring zone on an archery target?

I still don’t believe it. I was going like a bomb.

16)What have the following in common; Earth Summit, Party Politics and Rag Trade?

I could not identify this craft from the race report – but there were plenty of incidents like this over the weekend. The best of the bunch were:-

17)In badminton, how high is the centre of the net from the ground?

2)Which sport uses 5 different balls depending on the temperature, ranging from, yellow for hot to blue for cold?

20)Susan Brown was the first woman to take part in what?

5)In snooker how many points are scored on the black ball in a break of 147? 6)What’s the name of the game played by Harry Potter and his teammates on broomsticks?

And finally some trivia for you to mull over, which I’m certain once digested you will all sleep a lot easier tonight!! In 1982 Keke Rosberg won the World Formula 1 Championship, but only won one race!

10)The Bill Shankly Kop can be found at which football club?

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It was not all bad news though; it was reported that the conditions were fierce with many snags that the 18 drivers would not have been faced on some of the closed circuits. The skills of the drivers were well tested. Skirts were the main casualties of the junk in the Thames, with the additional hazards of wind, rough water caused by the “constant majestic progress of the pleasure boats that plied up and down the middle of the course”. The most outstanding competitor of the weekend proved to be Derek Ibbotson in his craft “Vulcan II”, and as you can see from this photo,

Geoff Kent’s craft – Caliban IV – coming to grief on a bicycle frame. Before this incident he had struggled valiantly with his engines and getting them to operate separately had been quite a challenge.

Nigel Beale disappears up the river and comes second to Derek Ibbotson

Nigel Beale was in close contention taking second place to Derek. Derek’s prize was £10 and the Sutton in Ashfield Trophy. Nigel prize in Cyclone 2 was a magnificent £7. A natty headline from the August 1972 magazine! ‘YOU CAN’T BEAT INFLATION!!’

A soccer ball is made up of 32 leather panels, held together by 642 stitches

Answers 1) Polo. 2) Squash. 3) Federation Cup. 4) Adolph Hitler. 5) 112. 6) Quidditch. 7) Table Tennis. 8) Swifter, Higher and Longer. 9) George Best. 10) Deepdale, Preston North End. 11) Eldrick. 12) Tiddlewinks. 13) St. Moritz. 14) Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, Lewis Hamilton and Jensen Button. 15) Gold. 16) They are horses whom have won the Grand National. 17) 5 feet or 1.524m. 18) 7. 19) Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. 20) The first woman to take part in the Oxford – Cambridge boat race.

9)Which footballer’s autobiography is titled ‘ The Good, The Bad, and the Bubbly?

Caliban IV aftangling with that bike. Note the new propulsion unit.

Did you know that Slazenger supplied 52.200 tennis balls to Wimbledon 2012!

7)Which sport uses the lightest ball? 8)What is the Olympic games motto?

part of the banking support and leaving a great “log” floating in the water as a hazard for his competitors!)

18)How many players in a netball team? 19)What does the acronym SCUBA stand for?

4)What 20th century leader introduced the custom of carrying a flame torch from Athens to the site of each Olympic games?

Not an unfamiliar picture, but this goes back to July 15th and 16th 1972 at the Thames Rally

12)In which game would you use a squidger and a circular disc between 25mm and 51mm?

1)Which is the only sport you are not allowed to play left handed?

3)In tennis what is the female equivalent of the Davis Cup.

FORTY YEARS AGO – GRANVILLE SPEDDING

Geoff Harding removes the extra ballast.

Geoff Harding (our late president) is seen examining the underneath of his craft after doing one circuit of the course with half a sleeper and a whole bedstead inside his skirt. (Watching the racing at Claydon last month it would seem that Jake Shaw had a similar experience demolishing www.hovercraft.org.uk

This was the new 2 seater Pindair “Skima” with Barry Oakley at the controls. A clear description showed its evolution. “Put together the manoeuvrability and control of ‘Pinkushion’ (which www.hovercraft.org.uk

was the clear winner of previous manoeuvrability tests at previous rallies), the thrust and reliability of ‘Hover Yak’ (which had travelled 1,200 miles through the Himalayas, over 3,000 rapids up to 10,000 feet), the toughness of a Dunlop Commando Boat and you get the Pindair “Skima” To prove its worth it had finished 4th in the Thames Rally described earlier. The ‘craft only weighed 190lbs, could be carried by two people, and folded quickly into a large car boot, on a roof rack, or in a luggage trailer. “Skima” was a regular at races for many years, and when developed into larger versions, was a great workhorse for many organisation. United Utilities based in Warrington used one regularly for mud-sampling on the River Mersey and around the North West coastline. The HoverClub branches had many events to organize or attend in their localities. A sample of these included:Stanford Hall Hover-In (Midland), Chichester Lake Southern), Connan’s Quay on the River Dee (Cheshire), Beccles Regatta, Norfolk Show Ground, and Earlham Hall (East Anglian), and Biddenham Spectacular, Southall Carnival (London) all in August of 1972. The Southern Branch published its programme of Autumn and Winter of monthly lectures: 1. Industrial applications of the Air Cushion Principle. 2. Structures: an engineer from Vosper’s Ltd. 3. Engines: a forum with guest speakers. 4. Skirts: with Ron Fishlock. 5. Fans: Another forum of guest speakers. 6. Electrics: tba! 7. Fire Precautions: with P. Hampson . These were organised by Neil MacDonald, a highly regarded member of the club for many years, and a prolific contributor to the magazine as editor and writer of “Molesworth” keeping us all up to date with latest developments and gossip. Just added to give some idea of the activities of Branches in the early days of light sports hovercraft development.

Membership Changes At the AGM of 1972 in Malvern the Council announced that the subscription rate would be: £3.00 p.a. for full membership £4.50 p.a. for family membership £1.50 p.a. for junior membership (1518 years) As subscriptions were on a rolling basis the new rates applied from renewal. A lapel badge was issued free to all new members a part of the joining subscription Below is an image of the original badge, which was issued to me in 1972. It has been worn proudly for many years, even though it was hard to describe the image to nonhovercraft enthusiasts!

The final photograph taken from the cover of the July 1972 edition shows two very familiar faces:

Keith and Anita on their wedding day. So as a thanks for all that they have done together over the many years – congratulations (though a little belated) on your 40th Wedding Anniversary. 1972 proved a very hectic year of racing and hovercraft development, so there is more to come yet. So to coin a phrase ‘Keep reading!’)

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Formula: FJ

My brothers, Matt and Colin

When and where did you first drive a hovercraft?

Who does the repairs to your craft? Me, my dad and my brothers.

At the Starlight Foundation in Bob Beaches Scat. Why hovercrafting? Why not? What is your favourite hovercraft venue? And why? Either Towcester or Prudhomat because they are fun to race and have good transitions. Out of everyone, me and Sarah must of had the best racing this season. we put in our all and was happy with the end result. a proud 1st for Sarah this year. out of 7 race meeting Sarah had three lucky 1st which is most deserved. unfortunately me and Sarah has had a few bumps this year but happy to say no one got seriously hurt. it was great to have the two girls on the front row all season it shows that the girls are much better at driving hovercrafts then the boys. Stevie Gill Name: Sarah Foster Race Number: 11 Make of Craft: Venom

If you could choose any other craft but your own what would it be? And why? Colins F2, when it’s finished! Because it is going to be awesome! In the world of hovercraft whom would you give a special trophy to? And why? To Debs at Bearwood, because she works really hard keeping the Bearwood Team fed and organised. Is there anyone in the world of hovercraft you admire? And why? Katrina Polfrey because she is a great and consistent driver and she likes gravy!

Do you use the HCGB page? No Other hobbies other than hovercraft related? Horse Riding, Trampolining and playing the Cornet. If you could be invisible for just one day what would you do? Annoy my brothers. What is your favourite holiday destination? Austria for skiing. Are you on Facebook and/or Twitter? Yes 7 facts about you? •I am National Junior Champion 2012! •I have canoed through Pont d’Arc during a 25km treck in a day with my family. •I have a dog called Millie and a horse called Daz. •My Granddad built a hovercraft in the RAF in 1968 which lead to my family being a part of the HCGB. •I am Grade 7 on the Cornet •I am taller than my Mum! •I love Pancakes.

Want to work in the hovercraft industry? Flying Fish Hovercraft are currently looking to recruit staff in the following areas. Sales & Marketing Manager We’re looking for an experienced and motivated sales manager to develop and maintain our network of representatives and agents. You’ll have a strong background in a relevant industry and be confident in preparing and delivering on a plan to increase both direct sales and (particularly) overseas dealers. This is a demanding role and you’ll be prepared to work long hours, travel to attend overseas shows and achieve targets. Package will include a basic plus commission with on-target earnings in the region of £35k. It’s not necessary that you have any hovercraft experience, what’s crucial is that you have the right attitude, drive and ambition - coupled with the right background - to help the company achieve its targets. Laminator Laminator required to join our team producing parts and hulls at our factory in Sandwich, Kent. Experienced preferred but not crucial if you can prove a relevant background or experience which demonstrate you have the right skills to develop. Salary after probationary period is £16k Design Consultant 2012 has seen a complete redesign of our existing range of craft and the release of new models. We’re looking to constantly improve, upgrade and develop our hovercraft and breed a culture of innovation within the company. We have an R&D program in place and welcome fresh input and ideas from experienced designers. If you feel you have the skills necessary to join us on a consultancy basis, we’d love to hear from you. Remuneration by negotiation. To be considered for any of these positions, please forward CV via email to Russ Pullen at Flying Fish Hovercraft www.flyingfishhovercraft.co.uk

Who is the hovercraft driver you would most like to beat?

Here we have for sale a new Razor (racing) Hull complete with buoyancy, which has never been raced, never had an engine nor fan frame fitted. It is a deep blue with white inner duct and orange base, it will come with (but not fitted) a white seat, white rudders and white flow straigtheners. We put this unit together to time the assembly process, note - there are a few small blemishes in the very thin gell coat of the upper hull.

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Flying Fish Hovercraft Ltd. Building 4, Sandwich Industrial Estate Sandwich, Kent CT13 9LU t : 000444 (0) 1304 619820 sales@flyingfishhovercraft.co.uk Company Reg. 07818507 www.hovercraft.org.uk

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HCGB AGM & Social Weekend 8th, 9th & 10th March 2013 The annual Hovercraft Club of Great Britain AGM is to be held on the 9th March 2013 at the Hilton Northampton, just off junction 15 of the M1. For anyone starting their AGM weekend on the Friday evening, a carvery meal at the local Toby restaurant is available – please advise numbers online so we know who is interested. Planned activities for your AGM include: A display and talk on Crash Helmets and Body Armour. A question and answer session with your Council members. A technical talk by Jamie Lewendon. An update on cruising activity and planned events. The HCGB shop will be open on Saturday and Sunday for all your new season clothing requirements. There are a couple of slots available to fill if you know of anything that would be of interest – please contact either Del Smart or Carla Thomas with details. Itinerary for the AGM Saturday 13.45 Talk and demo about Crash Helmet and Body Armour fit and function 14.45 Tea/coffee and biscuits 15.00 AGM 15.45 Council Question and Answer session

16.45 Technical Talk 19.00 Pre dinner drinks 19.30 Dinner dance and Award Ceremony Sunday 10.00 Sunday morning hangover challenge 11.00 Cruising Talk The AGM costs for Saturday and Sunday including room, dinner, breakfast and all entertainment are as follows: Single room Package £100.00 Twin / Double room Package £180.00 Triple room Package £240.00 Adult / Child room Package £120.00 Other options: AGM only £0.00 Saturday Dinner and Evening Entertainment £40.00 Friday night room and breakfast: Single £50.00 Twin / Double £80.00 Triple £90.00 Adult / Child £50.00 Saturday Light Lunch £12.25 Menu for Saturday Light Lunch is a selection of the following: Roast Beef and Onion Wrap Finger Sandwich Selection Mixed Olive and Red Pepper

Kebab Roasted Vegetable and Cous Cous Pitta Melon Platter Cheese Platter Chocolate Éclair Mixed Fruit Tarts Please book for the number of people requiring Saturday Light Lunch on the HCGB shop website. Bacon butties and chips are available late evening Saturday for those that need more food. The bar prices for the evening are again discounted by 15% for drinks bought from the Collingtree bar and also there will be no corkage charge for anyone bringing their own wine for consumption during the evening meal (one bottle per person max please). Full details are available from the HCGB shop webpage. All of the AGM options listed above are bookable on the HCGB shop website from November 2012. Any queries please contact either Del Smart or Carla Thomas via the HCGB website.

Letters from across the pond ...

The Dutch Hovercraft Club have kindly again sent us a copy of their latest newsletter, thanks again to their Editors Hans Peerenboom and Ben Meijer for kindly forwarding this on to us and letting us use there hard work and endeavours. Again in defence of Hans and Ben, I will apologise for my translation, google translator is good, but not that good!!! Thanks again Hans and Ben.

After 25 years, the future for the club? That might be a question of conscience, but also politics does not participate in the maintenance of the hovercraft as hobbies and sports activity. What is going on? In Arnhem, the Monster Trucks cracks around your heart and make noise, and on Texel Nieland there may trigger pull competitions are held! Any idea how much noise it produced? Any idea how much ‘black’ exhaust smoke is vomited out? How many speedboats there again this year on the receipt thrown due to sail fast with oversized outboard engines that produce much noise that hearing and see you perish! Insurance companies also make us very difficult and the Ministry of Housing is still bothering! Well, then do the owners of the hovercraft much neater and better, but we are continuous bothered! I hear you thinking ... where are the editors well to? Well, then this tricky question number 2: Does one after years battle finally won? Are we tired of fighting? We give up? Sorry, but it looks a bit ... There are very few messages on the editorial inside, once we could choose, we must now begging! It seems that our ‘hovercraft world’ really is on its last legs! Is it the end of the Dutch Hovercraft Club? There are less newsletters, because they are difficult to fill! The NHC website has been long time no amendment experienced! And when is the last ‘’ Real’’ club convention? Where do we go? Anyone have an idea? Any comment is welcome! It would be a terrible shame if, after 25 beautiful years, all cease to exist! Yet? ... The construction of the Vortex 7 goes well. There are some points been causing construction delays. The biggest stumbling block so far is the lift motor. Because I aandegrongen got that absolutely must be diesel, there uiteindleijk a chinese engine received. Previously makes Briggs

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& Stratton a vertical shaft diesel engine, but this is no longer available. Now there’s a Chinese engine is used. This is Vortex completely stripped, and after all good to have checked, and newly created, it is put back together. Also there was doubt whether 18 hp enough power would be enough to lift the hovercraft to give. There is a turbo put on, which was not easy, the engine would now more than 25PK should give. In addition, we are working on skirt shift system; because there is fear that the hovercraft needs more space, we do not always have we often fly over small tributaries where space is limited. I am in October in England for trial flights and tests. The hope is that the hovercraft then ready for shipment. It’s a little late, the question is whether we hovercraft still in a given project area before the rainy season begins. Otherwise it is very difficult to get there. Or a very long flight. The planning for maintenance of the River Rover has been postponed because the new later comes. Attached some pictures of the new Vortex. I find the result very nice. And I fully confident that we have a lot of work done faster.

On a cushion of air, they slide, the wing in ground effect vehicles By: Hans Peerenboom

If you think we are talking about a new type hovercraft go than you are wrong, because we are going to have a very old invention where already the second world war Scandinavia is experimented. Only early sixties was This development again, either with the Russian Rostislav Alexeiev and the German Alexander Lippisch independently together continue the investigation. Both had a total different background but struggled with exactly the same problems. Due to the difference in the background, they came up with completely different solutions the problems encountered. Alexeiev had a background as a known artist-- but was also known naval architect. We all know the famous hydrofoils such as the Meteor. Alexander Lippisch we know from the history as a German aircraft designer in the Second World War the first tailless aircraft designed. A well known design is the flying wing ‘Messerschmitt Me-163

“, a rocket-powered” interceptor “type. After the war Alexander Lippisch moved to America and has still contributed to the development of the Convair F-102 Delta and the Convair F-106 Delta Dart. These were the first American fighters who used a delta wing. All this happened in the 50’s. In the early 60s, he studied wedge devices skimming low over the surface at a cushion of air created itself, also called Aeroskimmen. In the Second World War, this method of coating the surface float, commonly used by pilots on the way back to England were tipsy. Through their aircraft very low over the water to shave, which they air cushion created between the wings and the water, they could significantly cut fuel use and was often able to just mainland England to retrieve. The influences of Alexeiev and Lippisch are still reflected today in the developed WIG devices. Recently I’ve seen an Iranian film of a naval review of the Iranian Navy which a many armed WIG aircraft were seen and closely resembling one of the designs of Lippisch. The WIG development in the USSR took place at the Central Hydrofoil Design Bureau (CHDB) led by Alexeiev. As the name suggests, this was mainly desk specializes in designing Hydrofoils (Hydrofoils). They wanted more within the office, including faster transportation on water. One therefore began to build and develop Wig devices. The military potential of these vehicles were Soviet leaders not escape. Alexeiev received personal support for his plans of the then President Khrushchev, including the necessary financial support. This important development in WIG history has led to the construction of several small and large appliances including the famous KM, better known as’’ The Caspian Monster’’. This is a Military Ekranoplane, which a number of years in secret built. In the beginning designed Alexeiev a WIG boat with hydrofoils. This was obviously a logical development because of his hydrofoil background. The first full-scale WIG boat of the Design Bureau was the tandem wing, the SM-1. This system was soon rejected, then proceeded to Alexeiev Ekranoplane design. The reason for the rejection of the SM-1 was that it is too high take-off speed was, combined with poor air properties. Another reason was that this machine also was poorly LightHovercraft 17

controlled. The first Ekranoplane a bit satisfied, was the SM-2P, built in 1962. This machine was equipped with a low wing and a long tail high. Another development in Ekranoplanes was the jet. This was positioned so that during the start propellant gases under the wings Ekranoplanes blew. The 550 tons KM (KM means in Russian concepts prototype ship) was baptized in 1966. Five years above, various tests with various manned and unmanned prototypes up to 6 tons, it got the name SM followed by a number (SM was an indication that this was to propeller-driven aircraft. The KM was built in the Forbidden City for everyone ‘Gorky’ whose current name Nizhny Novgorod is. No outsider came this city and the workers all had a confidentiality obligation. Just the word ‘Ekranoplane’ if one does not even speak in public. The KM was the Western world first discovered by spy satellites on the mement that was transported the Caspian Sea to be tested. When one of the photos, which were also very vague at that time, well studied, came to the conclusion that it is sometimes a new type seaplane could go, but one hundred percent certainty had one does not. The KM program was started in 1963 and was a huge project. The device was 100 times heavier than the SM-2P, which at that time all the heaviest ekranoplane craft that existed. The KM was his time forward, even today dare developers that several large designs on the drawing board have are new WIG aircraft, the still not to build a machine of this size. After these major experimental programs, the Russian Ekranoplane program, which led to one of the most successful Ekranoplanes of time: The 125 ton A-90 Orlyonok. In this Orlyonok was all that had been extensively tested in various designs, met. The aircraft was equipped with a turbo jet in the top of the back to the front tail which is also fitted with two propellers and the nose of the aircraft had been two jet placed directly in the air under the wing blew. A number of these A-90’s are from 1979-1992 in service with the Russian Navy. In 1987 two large Ekranoplane built, both had a weight of 400 tons and had the name “LUNs. The first device was on his back fitted with 6 missile launching tubes The second device was not reduced. By the time that the Soviet Union disintegrated one was however well advanced in the second LUN and this version had to do without the missile launch tubes on his back. This last device was already 90 percent ready, but by the stopping the flow of money, caused by the poor economic situation and the end of the cold war, the project halted. Over time there were new plans and ideas suggested that the new LUN project back to life. These plans and ideas ranged LightHovercraft 18

from use as a passenger to a rescue device. Second LUN one would want to baptize LUN to Spasatel. At this second unit is a short period worked for it to build up rescue Ekranoplane, but here were already soon financial problems around the corner and the project was stopped again. To ... in 1998 went to vote on the idea Ekranoplanes again be used for a worldwide network rescue! After extensive research and improved techniques, they are now able to unit building with a takeoff weight of about 700 to 800 tons! Bigger so if the Orlyonok and LUN. Establishing a worldwide network rescue at sea, based on (Heavy) Ekranoplanes will certainly not more expensive than the international community can afford. A global international rescue network should focus on the rescue of passengers and staff ships, submarines, aircraft, personnel of drilling platforms and other technical facilities at sea. Also, it can provide relief from environmental disasters at sea. The Krylov Central Research Institute has shown come with some technical proposals regarding a global rescue network. This involves the construction of 12 bases at ports in the Far East, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe and North and South America, where a total of 50 (Heavy) Ekranoplanes will are stationed. Because these vehicles have been made for the water, there will be no additional facilities need to be built. Ekranoplanes can also be stationed at on the water arrival halls with floating piers. These can for little moneybe built. If one interprets the work of the Ekranoplanes into consideration, it appears that the 12 bases the possible to make the rescue network with all areas of the international shipping, fishing, aviation, oil drilling and transport, inclusive. The stationing of 3 to 4 Ekranoplanes at each base would allow that 1 or 2 vehicles can be deployed immediately after receiving a distress signal. In combination with the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system, Ekranoplanes ensure that the first efficient rescue at sea a reality and that for hours, if necessary, and without interruption can search for victims and that all types of necessary help can be offered. Krylov Research has also submitted a proposal for a Ekranoplane with a displacement of 750 tons, used for a global rescue network lie. This vehicle will demonstrate a high seaworthiness in off and landing on rough sea, making it easily most of the year at sea can be used. In addition, the vehicle has a prolonged, as they say, sailing ability and can from any point in the latter’s working area at a low speed (approximately 15 knots) a filled achieve. Even if for any reason, therefore, is no longer able to fly. The flight speed of the Ekranoplanes lies between 400 and 500 km / h, and the scope of the work varies between 3000 to 4000 km. The

vehicle can have a wide range of rescue equipment inns, of rafts, boats and a helicopter to it. Disaster Victims can way to the port to board the necessary medical assistance. The establishment of such a worldwide network salvation requires good international cooperation between all maritime countries. Thus, it is important that all these countries provide financial support to this project. If there are claims arise in this area, we will let you know that of course. Soon returning to an earlier piece in this text, as shown in this article previously may have read caused the collapse of the Soviet Union before that it was no longer possible to build extremely large Ekranoplanes, let alone fund. For this reason, concentrated the Design Agencies on the development and construction of smaller WIG aircraft. The CHDB had been in 1985, the 8 seater Volga-2 developed, but other Design Agencies wanted the Russian ahead Wedge technology exploitation. The most successful in this area was the company who Technologies & Transportation narrower and more modern aircraft such as the built Amphistar. Both the Volga-2 as the Amphistar is currently in production. As you have read earlier also, is aircraft designer Lippisch began to develop Wedge planes. Lippisch started around 1960 and in that time he soon get an assignment of a single Collins. This was a rich American and also owns a company called Collins Radio Company. Mr. Collins asked Lippisch a fast boat him to build. This was the time that Alexander Lippisch name had already made in aircraft design and then known as the father of the Me163 delta wing. The flying boat for Collins, the X-112, was a device with delta to the back a T tail. Because of this design was very Lippisch stable and efficient WIG device. Yet Collins pulled the plug out of the project and the patents were sold to the German company, Rhein Flugzeugbau (RFB) which continued with the development of this WIG unit. In Germany saw some in the use of wedge devices for military use. The RFB got an assignment to a military prototype, this was the X-114. Requirement: this unit should primarily be used as ground effect machine, but the should also just be able to fly. After a time, the Company Fischer Flugmechanik the whole project of RFB continued the work of Lippisch forth. Their two-seater, the Airfisch-3 proved to be a successful design which after some time also been extended to a six-seater version. A Singapore-Austalian Joint Venture called Flight Ship will produce the FS-8 series. While Airfisch technology ready made for the mass market, was Fischer already busy with the next generation WIG aircraft. This time with hovercraft technique for takeoff and landing of the aircraft. The two-seater Hover Wing www.hovercraft.org.uk

prototype, the HW-2VT, has already been successfully demonstrated. At this Currently we are working on the design and construction of a twenty-seater. While Alexeiev had dropped a WIG with tandem wings, such as the SM-1, the German Günter Jorg later rediscovered this construction. After several test flights with radio control models, he succeeded in tandem to develop a stable WIG. This tandem WIG stood out for its simplicity and low production cost. The design is most like a WIG boat performance and, unfortunately, for technical reasons flopped again this project. There were then, and now, all over the world for many projects, which deal with the development of WIG aircraft. Part follows the technique of Alexeiev technique, the other part of the technique Lippisch. For this form of transport on a cushion of air are still several proposals in the offing. It is now also working on the refinement of the plans for the international global rescue network WIG Ekranoplanes. As stated in previous newsletters, in which attention is paid to the Wedge Ekranoplanes, have read, Can you Ekranoplan also as a kit in the store can buy. There are also known as Add-On for Microsoft Flightsimulator that you can download for free. The latter can you the flight behavior of the A-90 Ekranoplan yourself. Certainly do, it remains a fascinating device. For a very long time I want a working model of a hovercraft building and started with a draft of the SR.N6. Since there is no single blueprint consists of and I Mark Porter’s model does not really like it, I really think everything myself. This takes the necessary time. Besides the conception, everything must be fit. My biggest problem is the weight ‘low’ to keep because balsa fairly pricey and I make use of 3mm plywood. The future will answer the question whether this model I really flying or can get the weight before it on the high side. Should that latter is the case, then I still have the pleasure of inventing and building had. Of course I’m sure that this model will work really well! A fun challenge! Because I cannot wait, I also started the construction of the Griffon 2000. The building instructions and drawings by Mark Porter and can be found on the site model hovercraft.com. It is be very typical that the information is very poor, so also in this model is still the need creativity look. Fortunately, others gone before me, so there is enough material to be able to watch. Find yourself via the internet explorer to: scale model griffon 2000 For other model hovercraft enthusiasts to activate, I my progress in the NHC newsletter Tracking and hope that others will follow me to build this model. Mark gives roughly the instructions for building the following components: Cabin floor, Bulk Heads, Side beams, Forward and rear decks, Center section, www.hovercraft.org.uk

side decks, Cabin, Lift & Forward thrust duct and of course the Skirt. It will take some puzzling before; this model is ready, but hey ... that’s the fun of this kind of modelling. On a sunny Sunday afternoon I was bored a bit and then I started to build the bulkheads. I had somewhere a bit 3mm plywood lying and now came the old sticks of flares (See an article I wrote earlier model) with a thickness of 6mm me well. At the end of the afternoon, the four Bulkhead parts lightly sanded and finished.

of Lindholm in Denmark. He flew about 412 meters on a half meters and was thus seen as the ‘first European’ that really has flown. What for us is much more interesting is the fact he also “airboat” is designed which he in 1913 in the port of Copenhagen experimented. Elle Hammer tried by means of a large air funnel on the bow ‘Sailing wind’ under the bow to force the friction between the boat and water, with the aim of reducing as efficient and faster to sail against comparable boats with the same power.

1913 Jacob Christian Hansen Elle Hammer (1871-1946)

In addition, he constructed a sailboat with a contoured bottom to the friction with the water decrease. These experiments indicate that Elle Hammer seriously was engaged in reducing water friction by means of air lubrication between water and hull. Thanks to his urge to explore, experiment, and not to forget his daring and courage as a pioneer, has Jacob Christian Hansen Elle Hammer structural contributed to various developments in Europe on technical field. Although his experiments were mainly based on ‘learning by doing’ and in the whole not scientifically substantiated, he still paved a path for future researchers. Elle Hammer was married and had 4 children of which two died at a young age. Himself died on Elle Hammer May 20, 1946, which Denmark is a very versatile, inventive citizen lost.

Jacob was born in 1871 as Jacob Christian Hansen Bakkebølle (Vordingborg) in Denmark. He grew up in false Vig, an inlet of the island of Falster. From his youth he experimented with kites that could lift big weights and had large interest in flying and birds. At a young age, Jacob went to work at a Watchmaker learned the tricks of the precision mechanics until his military service had role in the Navy. After this period, he moved to Copenhagen in 1893 where he became acquainted with further technique by working first as an apprentice clerk and later as a clerk at a company where among other dynamos and typewriters were made. Here he developed a certain interest in electricity. At some point he started to experiment and play together to craft. Altogether he thus the special ability to understand mechanical devices. In 1898 he founded his own company ‘Ellehammers Mekaniske Etablissement’ on. This is a pretty strange because he was only three years later, in 1901, the surname of his mother ‘Elle Hammer’ behind his name added. In the beginning the company repaired typewriters and built the “amusement machines” for “Skandinavisk Panoptikon ‘entertainment center and wax cabinet in Copenhagen. For he built Panoptikon the ‘cinematograph’. With this device you could look through a glass a short movie. This ‘cinematograph’ led to the first patent of the final 59 Danish patents in the name of Jacob Christian Hansen Elle Hammer. His first real commercial success was its own motorcycle design. It thus earned money enabled him to realize his dream, building a flying machine actually achieve. His “bird studies’ were him to good use. It helped him to the number of HP’s to calculate would be required to fly. Elle Hammer built on the basis of his calculations handedly a radial engine for his dream to achieve. A typical ‘Elle Hammer’ Motorcycle Source: www.tekniskmuseum.dk Totally unaware of the success of the Wright brothers in December 1903, remained Elle Hammer experiment on 12 September 1906 itself airspace choose on the island

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LightHovercraft 19

Prices of HCGB Logo Merchandise Woolly hat - £7.50 including embroidered club logo Fleece hat - £7.50 including embroidered club logo Kids Hoodies - £14.00 including embroidered club logo on breast Kids Zipped Fleece Jackets £14.00 including embroidered club logo on breast Kids short sleeve T shirt - £6.50 including embroidered club logo on breast

Soft shell jackets – black or navy - £35.00 including embroidered club logo on breast & back Fleece zipped jackets – all colours - £22.50 including embroidered club logo Hoodies – all colours (other than orange) - £ 20.00 including embroidered club logo Ladies fit short sleeve T shirt – all colours – £12.00 including embroidered club logo Ladies fit long sleeve T shirt – all colours - £15.00 including embroidered club logo Men’s short sleeve T shirt – all colours - £12.00 including embroidered club logo Men’s long sleeve T shirt – black only - £15.00 including embroidered club logo & printed logo down right sleeve Unisex short sleeve polo shirts – all colours - £15.00 including embroidered club logo Unisex long sleeve polo shirts – all colours - £17.00 including embroidered club logo Baseball Cap - £7.50 including printed club logo LightHovercraft 20

Mouse Mat - £6.50 All-in-one race suits – navy – N/A Two piece water proof sets – black - £25.00 Puncture repair kits - £1.50 Kids ear defenders - £7.50 Ear caps – £1.00 Lipsyl - £1.50 Sun cream - £3.50 The Hovercraft Story Book - £8.50 5 Postcards in frame - £22.50 4 Postcards in frame - £20.00 Powered Model Kit - £15.00 Combat force Hovercraft - £3.50 Logo Pens – 40p Thermal Mugs –£6.00 Mugs – £7.00 Key rings –TBA Wrist bands - £1.00 Umbrellas – £15.00 Cotton Shopping Bags – £5.00

Hovercraft for sale BBV F3 Shaft drive, TZR 250 with trailor £1800

F3 Meteor Racing Craft Fully recondition hovercraft currently being carried out, available in any colour that the customer would like, integrated hull fitted with standard TZR 250 engine. Brand new set of skirts fitted. This can be built to any spec wanted. Price depends on spec wanted. From £1700 upwards Call Ricky Goosey: 07875335702 Eagle 1 Single seater craft, with inverted Rotax 503 engine & gearbox. Used mainly at Magnoll’s Orange hull, white duct. Very reasonable condition. C/w trailer Offers in region £1,800.00 Bob Clegg 07986089323 r.clegg@btinternet.com For Sale – Mr Bump Lee Willars built, modified Eagle Racing Hovercraft Elegantly finished as Mr Bump Built and raced in 2012, finishing 3rd Overall in F50 Hull, Engine Frame, Steering, Splitter Plate, Fuel Tank and Skirt only (No Engine) Two careful owners, c/w HCGB Log book and very minor ‘war wounds. Engine frame to suit Rotax 503 c/w Gearbox. Stick an Engine in and your ready to race!! Collection only - £1,500.00 Contact Clive Mason Mob – 0772 9783989 Email – clivemason33@yahoo.com

most of the local branches meet regularly, normally in a pub, to sit around and chat hovercraft or organise an upcoming meeting or event. feel free to contact them and they will be more than happy to welcome you along to the meetings.

ONLY AVAILABLE TO HCGB MEMBERS Hoodies – orange - £20.00 including embroidered club logo, own name printed on right breast (optional) and HCGB Marshall on back. Unisex short sleeve T shirts – orange - £7.00 including printed club logo Sweatshirt – orange - £17.50 including embroidered club logo, own name printed on right breast (optional) and HCGB Marshall on back

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local branches