My Rag and Tube Journey from Oregon to Oshkosh: An Unforgettable Adventure

As a passionate aviation enthusiast, I have always harbored a burning desire to embark on an epic aerial expedition. And when the opportunity arose to participate in the Rag and Tube Race, a legendary cross-country air race for homebuilt aircraft, I knew I had to seize it.

Preparing for the Adventure

With months of meticulous planning and countless hours spent in my garage, I meticulously prepared my beloved RV-7A, affectionately named "Oldsmobuick." I equipped it with a powerful V8 engine, a rugged fuselage, and an array of state-of-the-art avionics.

Flying the Interstate: My Rag and Tube Journey from Oregon to Oshkosh

by Conrad Waters

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1258 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	265 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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As the race date approached, I gathered an intrepid crew of fellow aviators, each bringing their unique skills and expertise. Together, we formed a formidable team, united by our shared love of flying and our unwavering determination to conquer the challenges that lay ahead.

Embarking on the Odyssey

On a crisp morning in Bend, Oregon, we bid farewell to our loved ones and ascended into the azure sky. The first leg of our journey took us across the majestic Cascade Mountains, where breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and shimmering lakes unfolded beneath our wings.

As we progressed eastward, the terrain transformed into rolling hills and vast plains. We navigated through gusty winds and fleeting storms, testing our piloting skills and pushing our aircraft to its limits. Each landing and takeoff became a testament to our teamwork and the resilience of our flying machine.

Encounters Along the Way

The Rag and Tube Race is not merely a competition; it is also an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow aviators and witness the boundless ingenuity of the homebuilt aircraft community.

At remote airstrips and bustling airports alike, we encountered a myriad of pilots, builders, and enthusiasts. We exchanged stories, shared technical insights, and marveled at the extraordinary creations that adorned the flight line.

The Joy of Competition

While the primary goal of the race was to complete the arduous 2,500-mile course, a healthy spirit of competition inevitably ignited within our team. We meticulously calculated our flight plans, analyzed weather forecasts, and strategized to maximize our performance.

During exhilarating low-level legs, we pushed our aircraft to the brink of its capabilities, navigating treacherous terrain with precision and finesse. The thrill of soaring through narrow canyons and skimming over rolling hillsides was an experience that will forever be etched in my memory.

The Triumph of Oshkosh

After six grueling days of intense flying, we finally approached the hallowed grounds of Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The moment we touched down on the runway marked a profound sense of accomplishment and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.

We emerged from our aircraft, weary but elated, greeted by a thunderous ovation from the vast crowd that had gathered to witness our triumph. As we proudly displayed our Rag and Tube flag, a wave of euphoria washed over us, knowing that we had overcome countless obstacles and achieved something truly extraordinary.

Lessons Learned and Memories Made

The Rag and Tube Journey from Oregon to Oshkosh was more than just an aerial race; it was a transformative experience that tested our limits, forged unbreakable bonds, and instilled within us an unwavering passion for aviation.

I learned the profound importance of careful planning, teamwork, and perseverance. I gained invaluable knowledge about aircraft performance, weather patterns, and survival techniques in remote environments.

But above all, the memories I made during this epic journey are the greatest treasures of all. The breathtaking landscapes, the camaraderie of my crew, and the triumph we shared at Oshkosh will forever hold a special place in my heart.

To all aspiring aviators, I encourage you to seek out your own Rag and Tube adventures. Embrace the challenges, learn from the experiences, and savor the memories. And remember, the greatest rewards are found not at the finish line but along the journey itself.

Flying the Interstate: My Rag and Tube Journey from Oregon to Oshkosh

by Conrad Waters

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1258 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	265 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE