BONANZAS TO OSHKOSH

Welcome to Bonanzas to Oshkosh XXIII

Larry Gaines

Registration is open for B2OSH XXIII. If you plan to join us this year, we have some special requests:

1. Please read the registration instructions carefully and comply fully. When shirt sizes are omitted or lines are left blank, we have to follow up. Normally, that’s a minor inconvenience, but this year I will be circling the globe with Wayne all of April and most of May. Internet access will be spotty. As registrations come in, it will be much appreciated if follow-up is no more than a reply of, “Got your form. C ya in RFD.”

2. Please sign up early. We know that a few can’t commit too far in advance, but do your very best. Wayne & I will leave the country from Sun N Fun at the end of March. Every registration that comes in before March 15 will be one less form that has to be dealt with while away from home.

3. If you have questions, please try to find answers on these web pages first. Elliott does a terrific job managing this web site. Its content reflects 22+ years of experience. There’s a good chance you will find what you need in these pages.

4. In addition to printing & snail mailing your form and check, please e-mail a copy of the form also. Be aware that if snail mail arrives from mid-March through May, your check will not be deposited right away.

Training. We saved the most important subject for last. You cannot fly in formation with other aircraft unless you know how to do it. That means training and practice. Ours is a loose formation. “Formation” implies a disciplined, organized configuration of aircraft, with each airplane in its designated and briefed position relative to other aircraft in the formation. We fly with greater than airshow “parade” separation, but we are a not a “gaggle”. Our single goal is to arrive safely and expeditiously at Oshkosh at the same time so we can park and camp together.

There will be organized practice sessions at various locations around the country. Most will have small fees to cover some of the host’s expenses, but these “clinics” are basically free. They are genuinely outstanding opportunities to acquire or sharpen a specialized skill that will increase the proficiency of all your flying. These events also serve as excellent social events. They are the fabric of a wonderful and growing network of friendship and camaraderie. First timers will need to document their training and clinic attendance is just about the only way to get that done. We will post dates and clinic registration instructions as clinic hosts confirm details.

Final Note: Take a look at our Sponsor’s Page and click through to their websites. Bonanzas to Oshkosh is very proud that the companies & organizations that support us are passionate about aviation and good friends of General Aviation and of Bonanza owners in particular. The donors & sponsors of B2OSH are part of “us”. They are more than business owners who support machines we own & operate. They support what we do and who we are.

See you in Rockford!

Larry