At a recommendation to Lockheed-Martin from the AMA, the Clovis Area Modelers – Contest Directors – were contacted and asked if they would assist Lockheed-Martin in tracking time for a continuous and near autonomous UAS flight over a 24 hour period.  On April 11, 2022, CD’s from the Club were Dave Fusinato, Erik LaCour, Conrad Nerdahl, and Jan Sunberg.  On the ground at the skunkworks test flight location near Pismo California were Jan, Dave, and Erik; while, Conrad monitored the event remotely through a Lockheed-Martin web interface.  This event was kept quiet until a final verification and validation of the flight record could be made.  Overall, this was an exciting opportunity for ClovisRC to assist in what ultimately became an incredible observation of extended flight duration.  All those on the ground (Erik, Dave and Jan) were equipped with ISO rated stopwatches to independently track the time for this flight from liftoff to touchdown.  The flight surpassed expectations and finished up at 39 hours.  A new official FAI record for a single continuous flight. Please use the attached link to read the entire story from Lockheed-Martin.

The Clovis Area Modelers Inc. also referred to as the ClovisRC Club is purchasing the property that encompasses the old Ketscher Ranch Airstrip known as PEG FIELD.

Such an opportunity helps to secure an existing airstrip for dedicated Model Aviation purposes from Radio Control Aircraft to Control Line Flying.  Such facilities are difficult to find as many are being encroached upon and eliminated.

Most importantly; securing this property will put ClovisRC in a strong position to establish this field under Clovis Area Modelers – CBO (Community Based Organization) and as an FAA recognized FRIA (Federal Recognized Identification Area) that will be exempt from UAS  (Your RC Planes) transponder requirements as well as forthcoming altitude restrictions.  At Peg Field as a premier regional RC Field, you’ll be able to fly when other locations may have imposed restrictions.

By purchasing the land outright and partnering with nearby educational institutions and community STEM programs, the Clovis Area Modelers will create a regional model aviation facility void of ongoing development threats; and, renovate the existing property and solidify its purpose to further education in aviation.

To achieve this goal, you can be a part of this endeavor by donating to the Clovis Area Modelers for the exclusive purpose of purchasing this property.

Donors will be recognized in some way unless the donor chooses to remain anonymous.

Introduction to NMPRA Electric Formula One (EF1)

          NMPRA (National Miniature Pylon Racing Association) Electric Formula One (EF1) is a racing event for radio control airplanes powered by electric motors. The event is intended to be easy to get into, available everywhere, reasonably priced and using off-the-shelf components (ARF and build KITS) to create the maximum amount of fun. While there is a great diversity in equipment available for electric models, the rules are designed to eliminate a technological advantage available to a limited few and allow all participants to compete on an even level.

          The NMPRA maintains strict control of the rules and their interpretation; and, will make necessary adjustments to these rules to eliminate any development, technological or otherwise, which upsets the level playing field. Therefore, the rules will provide a guideline for the racing event and its equipment, necessary for the CD to execute the EF1 event. The EFI rules to be utilized can be found by searching with your browser “NMPRA Electric Formula One Rules”. It is a 12-page PDF document dated 4/15/2014.

          The (Fresno Radio Modelers) would like to invite all interested pilots to come to Ave 12, FRM field for the 2021 YSPRA racing season, starting the last weekend of March on Saturday 27th. Pilots do not have to be a member of FRM; however, do need to have their AMA license. There will be a nominal pilot fee (to cover prizes and awards) at each contest. FRM would like all pilots that come to our YSPRA EF1 events to have an enjoyable good time and be sure to have fun.

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EF1 – NMPRA Website – http://www.nmpra.net/index.php

EF1 – Approved Equipment – http://www.nmpra.net/EF1Approved.htm

EF1 – Racing Guidelines – http://www.nmpra.net/basics.htm

EF1 – Provisional Rules – http://www.nmpra.net/rules/EF1NewRules4_15_2014.pdf

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EF1 – Pilot Interest Form – https://clovisrc.club/wp-content/uploads/YSPRA-Pilot-Application.pdf

EF1 – FRM (modified) – Intro Form – https://clovisrc.club/wp-content/uploads/YSPRA-Racing-Intro.pdf