SNOHOMISH — It’s loud, it’s fast and it’s aggressive.
The 37th annual “Bladder Grabber,” a line-flying competition for model airplanes, is set to take place Friday through Sunday at Harvey Field in Snohomish.
The fast-combat tournament features model airplanes flying on cables that are controlled with handles from the ground. Streamers are tied to the back of the planes, which try to fly behind their competitors and cut the streamers with their propellers.
“We dogfight with them basically,” said Jeffrey Rein, the 18-year veteran contest director.
Spectators are sure to see plane crashes and mid-air collisions.
Rein, of Covington, said the event was dubbed the “Bladder Grabber” because the planes have pressurized fuel systems that use bladders to carry the fuel.
“Where they got the grabber part is anybody’s guess,” he said.
Rein said about half of the competitors build their own planes, which can reach speeds of 125 miles per hour. He expects to have about 15 entries from across the U.S. and Canada for the tournament.
The event was larger when it started in the 1970s, Rein said.
“It’s one of those sports that’s fading but those of us who like to do it still fly,” he said. “Most of us are in our 60s. It’s a hobby that’s a passion for people.”
The tournament starts at noon Friday. Seven rounds are scheduled to be flown Saturday and Sunday. The contest culminates with a championship match.
The $50 entrance fee includes lunch all three days. Prizes include motors for model airplanes.
More information can be found at flyinglines.org.
Amy Nile: 425-339-3192; anile@heraldnet.com. Twitter: @AmyNileReports.
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