Quote Originally Posted by RetroAcro View Post
The "one design" concept had a couple flaws, IMO. First was the hope that there would be significant numbers of folks willing to commit years constructing a plans-built airplane for the sole purpose of participating in aerobatic competitions against others who would be flying the exact same plane. Interesting concept,
Even more interesting when you consider the number of existing "one designs." A 7ECA, even the lowly C-150 aerobat. Also interesting is that a competition could be designed where the "one design" airplanes are available for rent. This would encourage a lot of entry level participants. Imagine, one could take the requisite training and then enter a contest without buying/building his/her own airplane. No large cash outlay required, other than some dual instruction and airplane rental costs. Design a basic routine and everyone plays on a level field, no fat wallet advantage. But silly me, what am I thinking, IAC is not interested in that.

If the concept worked, it would be a challenge to fit in these additional categories into the current contest structure that already includes 5 categories that can be hard to get finished in the standard 2 days as it is. You would really need a dedicated "one design" contest, and that would be a little isolating from the rest of the folks in the sport.
Once upon a time we used to brainstorm this idea during hangar flying sessions. It could be made to work, easily. If it became popular, make it a stand alone event. If not, it could be incorporated into a regular IAC event. Maybe start a day early and get down to the final round on day 2. Even as an 'isolated' event it would encourage interest and participation in aerobatics but then again, what am I thinking. In the end, support for entry level aerobatics and grass roots participants isn't there.