The recognition of disqualification's
(Internet Published) May 2002
No one will dispute the fact that Tippler time flying contest rules are easy
to understand. No man is capable of maintaining 100% surveillance on
anything for more than about 2 hours. For this reason sentries in the
British Army did 2 hours on duty and 4 hours off duty.
Nevertheless, the Tippler sport has prevailed for many years relying on the
integrity and educated guesswork over periods extending from 12 to 22 hours.
I know very well the anger, the heartbreak and despair when a kit flies for
many hours and yet is disqualified for failing to drop and enter the loft
within the specified time of 1 hour. Yet to me this signifies lack of
control or a serious breach of rules and management. It compares with
driving a high-powered car with faulty brakes.
Therefore, I do not recognise long times that terminate in
disqualification's of any kind, for they are failures. I appreciate fly
reports that show reason for disqualifications and the actual time recorded
prior to the disqualifications - They are an education.
Tippler flying and life in general is based upon control. There is no honour
in apathy or failure.