After 10 nationwide meets in 2025, beginning in April with the Swamp STOL in Jennings, Louisiana, the National STOL (Short Take Off and Landing) series wraps up with the Lonestar STOL and National Finals in Sulphur Springs Texas.
The event, slated for Oct. 30-Nov. 1, will bring together competitors from across the country.
The competition is organized into eight classes of aircraft, ranging from the Vintage Cub class up to Unlimited. Don’t own a hopped up Backcountry Super Cub? No problem: You can compete in the Touring class with a Cessna 182, Piper Cherokee 180, or Stinson 108-3.
“National STOL represents a competitive series designed for pilots across the nation to demonstrate their prowess in a sport-oriented environment,” explain event organizers. “Pilots compete in one or more events throughout the year, accumulating points towards an annual national title for top performers. While proficiency in short takeoffs and landings is typically associated with bush pilots navigating backcountry terrain, it is a skill that all aviators can and should refine, ensuring our competitions are accessible to anyone involved in general aviation.”
On Oct 10-11, 2025, I ventured to the Music City STOL in Gallatin, Tennessee. Perfect weather brought out competitors and spectators alike, and Friday night’s free community concert and fundraiser, Rock ‘n STOL, was a big hit.
With the results in, several of the Music City contestants are now ranked near the top of their class nationally.
Matt Dorssom from Lancaster, Kansas, is at the top of the Sport class, flying his 160-hp Yamaha-powered Kitfox.
Behind him in second place is Eddie Sanches, from Willis, Texas, who flies “Devil Girl II,” a Just Aircraft Highlander sporting a 270-hp Yamaha turbo.
In the Wilderness class, Brandon Corn of Gause, Texas, holds down second place with his Backcountry Super Cub, launched behind a 330-hp Lycoming 540.
Cruising along in third place in the Touring class is Rick Holman in a beefy Maule MXT 7-180. He came all the way from Creswell, Oregon, to compete in Gallatin.
Looking for a new flying destination? Don’t miss the Lonestar STOL and National Finals. Who knows? You might find a new aviation itch to scratch!
For more information: NationalSTOL.com
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