The Sixth Annual Touchdown Autorotation competition will be held June 26 at Jerry Trimble Helicopters (JTH).
The contest begins at 10 a.m. The cost to enter is $75, and includes a Robinson R22 helicopter to use in the contest. A $5 donation will be made to the local charity of the pilot’s choice with the purchase of each admission.
The autorotation grand prize winner will receive $600 and an engraved piece of R-22 rotor blade to commemorate the win. Second and third place winners will receive $400 and $200 respectively.
The autorotation competition will be judged on straight-in full down autos. Scoring is based on distance from the pre-established “spot,” technique, and the slide distance (if any).
Pilots will have points subtracted from their total score depending on how much assistance is given by Trimble. Each pilot is allowed two full-down auto rotations and all flights will be flown with Jerry Trimble unless the pilot supplies their own helicopter.
The competition corresponds with the annual Lions Cub Fly-In/Drive-In and the public is invited to bring their favorite aircraft or car for a chance to win a trophy. With every breakfast purchase, spectators receive a ballot to vote on their favorite car and airplane.
This event features the following (based on aircraft availability and weather):
7 a.m.: Lions Club Pancake Breakfast
8 a.m.: $25 Helicopter Rides
9 a.m.: Long Line Demonstration
9:30: FAA Wings Presentation
10: Touchdown Autorotation Contest
11: Panel Discussion on Aviation Careers and State of the Industry
12: Debriefing at Grain Station Brew Works
To register for the event, call JTH at 503-577-6371 or send an email to [email protected]