Rocky Mountain STOL Reflects Growth

This year, the number of spectators doubled and pilot participation tripled for the event in Pinedale, Wyoming.

Monday, August 21, 2023 at 12:53 PM ET

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The Wind River mountain range served as a picturesque backdrop for the second annual Rocky Mountain STOL competition. [Credit: Daniel Major]

Key Takeaways:

The second annual Rocky Mountain STOL competition in Pinedale, Wyoming, experienced significant growth, doubling spectators and tripling pilot participation from various states.
Competitors faced unique challenges due to the event's high altitude (7,084 feet msl) and strong winds, which significantly impacted measured distances.
The event was praised for its community engagement, with pilots participating in local activities and organizers receiving commendation for their hospitality.
Notable winners included Steve Henry in the Unlimited Class with a 76-foot combined distance and Rick Boardman in the Sport Class, while Collin Caneva received the "Fan Favorite" award.

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Ralph Wentz Field (KPNA) is situated in the rustic town of Pinedale, Wyoming, with the Wind River mountain range serving as a picturesque backdrop for the second annual Rocky Mountain STOL competition hosted by Emblem Aviation.

The event, sanctioned by the National STOL Series, experienced remarkable growth this year, with the number of spectators doubling and pilot participation tripling. It featured a full field of competitors across the various classes, including not only local participants but also those from Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Colorado, Kansas, Texas, Minnesota, and even Alaska. Angela Douglas, co-owner/founder of Rocky Mountain STOL, said “of the 850 people who attended, 268 visitors from 30 different states were in attendance, according to our gate survey.”