Record Crowd Gathers for Third ArkanSTOL Competition

ArkanSTOL is the only backcountry flying competition held in the Ozark mountains at Byrd's Adventure Center.

Cam Walton

Friday, October 28, 2022 at 05:35 PM ET

Verified

Kris Griewahn landing after successfully completing the qualification course. [Courtesy: Cam Walton]

Key Takeaways:

The third annual ArkanSTOL (Arkansas Short Takeoff and Landing) competition in the Ozarks saw its largest turnout, introducing a refined scoring system that combined flight time, measured landing distance, and other factors.
Competitors across three aircraft classes navigated a challenging multi-strip course requiring precise takeoffs and landings, clearing pylons, and accurate touchdowns measured by laser.
Beyond the core competition, the event featured AOPA-sponsored presentations on aviation safety and education, unique aerial demonstrations (including C-130J simulated approaches), and evening entertainment with live music and camaraderie.

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How fast can you go slow? It’s a question that was answered during the third annual ArkanSTOL (Arkansas Short Takeoff and Landing) competition held in September in the Ozarks before the largest turnout to date.

ArkanSTOL—Arkansas’ only backcountry flying competition held in the Ozark mountains at Byrd’s Adventure Center (51AR)—began as an idea started around a campfire by co-founders Joe Edwards, John Young, and Rusty Coonfield.