The July 2011 issue of Flight Lines features President Walt Barbo’s reflective message on the cancellation of the 2011 Denver to Jackpot Air Classic after 34 years of continuous operation since 1977. Barbo traces the event’s history, origins with CPA member Hal Gamble and casino operator Carl Hayden, and evolution from an air race to an “Air Classic” due to insurance concerns. He discusses how the competition’s character changed over the decades—from a challenging test of navigation and pilotage skills in the pre-GPS era to a more routine endeavor once participants became familiar with the course and relied on autopilot. The cancellation came after a member survey indicated insufficient participation to justify the event’s expenses, reflecting broader questions about changing pilot interests and economic conditions affecting general aviation activities.
Barbo provides extensive detail on the technical evolution of aircraft categorization and handicapping systems used throughout the event’s history, from speed-based categories to aircraft type classifications, and the ongoing challenges of setting fair handicap speeds. The article also highlights notable participants like Jim Hollis and Tim Roberts, who voluntarily raised their own handicaps to enhance competition for other pilots. The newsletter also teases an article about member Lothar’s whale watching aviation adventure.
Key Topics
- Cancellation of the 2011 Denver to Jackpot Air Classic
- 34-year history of the event (1977-2011)
- Evolution from air race to “Air Classic” terminology
- Impact of GPS and autopilot technology on competition character
- Aircraft categorization and handicapping systems
- Changes in member participation and interest
- Economic and insurance considerations
Member News
- Hal Gamble (Member #4, deceased) — founding member credited with establishing the Denver to Jackpot event
- Jim Hollis — frequent Air Classic winner with Skylane who voluntarily raised his handicap to increase competition
- Tim Roberts — frequent Air Classic winner with Bonanza who voluntarily raised his handicap to increase competition
- Lothar — featured in article about whale watching aviation adventure
