After 6 years of flying the Streak Shadow G-BVOR, it has now gone to its new owner. I have been flying the Streak and prior to that a 'C' Series for almost 10 years, and apart from one landing incident the time has been very enjoyable. It is not just flying the Shadow that is fun, it is also the atmosphere especially within the Shadow Owners Club at fly-ins etc. I often explain the Club to people as being like the 'MG Owners Club'. Unfortunately this year has not been good with weather affecting most of the planned fly-ins. Priory Farm back in June, and more recently Horsey Island, were frequented by a number of Shadows.
So what am I moving to you may ask? A Jabiru UL is the answer. Yes I know that the visibility in the Jabiru is not as good as the Shadow, and the seating position for the pilot is not as good, and it is unlikely to climb at 1200ft/min solo with my weight, but it does have a 4-stroke engine, it is side-by-side, and it does have plenty of panel space for additional instruments, but then it does cost a serious amount more than a Streak. Time will tell whether I have made the right decision. I do however have a sneaking feeling that I might be begging a flight in a Streak in the future, just to keep my hand in, and bring back memories of what I am missing.
I am aware that I am not the only Shadow owner who is converting to the Jabiru, so I think it is highly likely that we will see Jabiru's dropping in at Shadow Owners Club fly-ins, and of course vice-versa.
Clearly with my interest moving over to the Jabiru, it would be inappropriate for me to remain as editor of the Shadow Owners Club website. I will therefore be handing over to the Treasurer Tim Harvey in the next few weeks.
Anyone who would like to join the Shadow Owners Club and join in the Shadow Fly-Ins should contact Tim Harvey on telephone. UK (01245) 460357 (evenings). The cost is £5.00 per annum from 31st December 1999.
Have a safe flight,
John Lord
Email: j.lord@shadowowners.flyer.co.uk
Last updated - 15/08/00
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