The South African Power Flying Association describes itself as a community of aviation enthusiasts passionate about recreational flying in South Africa. It also envisions fostering continuous learning from experienced aviators and expanding flying skills, all while having fun.
The Brits Speed Rally took place this past weekend, and I was fortunate enough to attend and capture the action.
I was kindly offered a lift to Brits by Derek Hopkins in his beautiful RV8. I was especially excited to fly in the RV8, having previously experienced the RV7 and RV4. Arriving at Eagles Creek early on Saturday morning, I was warmly welcomed by Derek as we entered the airfield. With the aircraft prepped, we were soon airborne and en route to Brits. I pointed out some hot air balloons in the Hekpoort Valley, and without hesitation, Derek steered the nimble RV8 in that direction. We greeted the balloon passengers with a friendly fly-by before continuing on our way. I was amazed at how quickly the RV8 covered ground and how effortlessly it did so. I also found the rear seat surprisingly comfortable, certainly more spacious than the tight fit in the RV4.
Looping and rolling our way to Brits, I secretly hoped the flight would never end. But alas, as soon as the fun began, it was time to land.
As always, David le Roux from PilotInsure was on hand with his team of marshals and assistants to help park the arriving aircraft. Protea Flying Team members, and husband and wife, Iaan and Tarryn Myburgh also welcomed arriving pilots at one of South Africa's most well-known flying clubs.
This event was the second in a series of four Speed Rallies scheduled for the year. The first took place at Rhino Park before the Pretoria Airshow; the second, this event at Brits; and two more are planned, at New Tempe on 23 August and the grand finale at Heidelberg on 27 September.
Speed Rallies are fun, skill-enhancing events designed to develop pilot and navigator capabilities in a safe and controlled environment. This year's series includes two route options: a shorter route of around 65 nautical miles and a longer route of 120 nautical miles. The races run at different times during the day, allowing both faster and slower aircraft to compete on a more level playing field.
David le Roux opened proceedings with a briefing on the Speed Rally format and handed out race numbers. Iaan Myburgh followed with a detailed briefing covering the route, safety, and weather. Shortly after, competitors collected their data loggers and race packs.
With everything in place, the first take-offs were imminent. I positioned myself on the eastern side of Brits Airfield's Runway 02/20 to photograph the departures.
Even after the departures, the airfield remained lively with club members, students, and recreational fliers enjoying a hearty and affordable breakfast.
Before long, the competitors began returning, arriving in close succession, a clear indication that the handicapping system was doing its job well. It was a magnificent sight as aircraft streamed in from the west.
Once all the competitors were safely on the ground, score tabulation began. Iaan Myburgh carefully downloaded and analysed the GPS logger data.
With results finalized, the prizegiving took place, highlighted by a Jabiru aircraft clean sweep!
1st Place: ZU-DUU - Piet Meyer and Adrienne Visser
2nd Place: ZU-BSA - Tarryn Myburgh and Derek Orford
3rd Place: ZU-FLF - Chris Baker - Solo
A heartfelt thank you to Derek Hopkins for flying me to and from Brits for the event. Needless to say, our return flight to Eagles Creek was filled with more loops and rolls, punctuated by Derek's endless supply of dry humour. After landing, I had the pleasure of sitting down with him to chat about his 15,000 hours in the sky, his countless adventures, his RV, and his favourite aircraft-the beloved Douglas DC-3.
As I left Eagles Creek that Saturday afternoon, I felt deeply grateful for such a memorable day spent with friends under the warm winter sun.
.jpg)
