Medford Air Service will host the “World Championship Flour Bombing Competition” June 24-25 at Rogue Valley International Airport (RVI) in Medford, Ore.
The competition is a revival of a practice started during World War I when, in lieu of live ordnance, Army pilots would use “flour bombs” to learn accurate bombing. After the war, flour bombing became a competitive event at air meets around the nation. From World War I through the 1960s, it was a standard event at most air meets and fly-ins. However, it faded away in the 1970s and is now rarely seen at flight gatherings.
Entering the competition is free. Prizes and trophies will be awarded to the top three competitors. First place prize is a $500 AvFuel card. Second place is a $300 gift certificate for products from Spencer Aircraft, while the third place winner will receive a $200 gift certificate from Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co. In addition, Medford Air Service will give a $100 cash prize to the pilot flying the greatest distance to compete in the championships.
Qualifying rounds will be held Saturday June 24, with the finals on Sunday, June 25. Each contestant will drop three flour bombs from an altitude of 200 feet or higher. Each drop will be measured and averaged. The 10 best averages will move on to Sunday’s finals.
For more information: 541-779-5451.