The Skippy Cup

The idea for this contest originated during LDRS 42 in Potter, NY in 2024. Recognizing the lack of formal TRA contests, Gerald Meux ("Skippy"), along with other members, proposed this competition. The name "Skippy Cup" is a playful reference to Gerald's nickname, inspired by his fondness for Skippy peanut butter. Last year was the first year of the contest and was met with great success. Since the top projected altitude was not met, let’s do the contest the same way for 2026. Thank you to the Contest and Records Committee, our sponsors, Indiana Rocketry for hosting LDRS, and all participants!

Read about the Inaugural Skippy Cup - Altitude Contest

1. Objective:
   
   To achieve the highest altitude during the LDRS 44 launch at Indiana Rocketry using a single-stage rocket powered by a commercial H motor.
2. Eligibility:
   
   
   • Participants must be current TRA members in good standing and adhere to the Tripoli Unified Safety Code (TUSC).
   • The qualifying flight must be completed before the conclusion of Saturday's flying.
   • A designated flight card must be obtained from Skippy (Gerald Meux) or a member of the Contest and Records Committee before the flight.
   • Participants must inform Skippy (Gerald Meux) or a member of the Contest and Records Committee of their intended flight time to allow for witnessing the launch.
3. Rocket Specifications:
   
   
   • Minimum Tube Diameter: 4 inches (101.6 mm)
   • Minimum Straight Tube Length: 8 inches (203.2 mm). Additional length is permitted via nose cone and/or boattail sections.
   • Motor: A single commercial H motor is required. Cluster motors are prohibited.
   • Rail Buttons: Fixed 1010 rail buttons are mandatory.
   • Altimeter: A commercially available altimeter is required.
4. Judging and Scoring:
   
   
   • The winner will be determined by the highest recorded altitude, as verified by the participant's altimeter data. The committee reserves the right to review and verify all altitude data.
   • In the event of a tie, the winner will be the participant who launched their rocket first. Time will be determined by witness testimony and any available video/photographic evidence.
5. Prizes:
   
   
   • Prizes will be awarded to the top-performing participants. Winners will be announced at the Saturday night banquet. Example - Prizes that were used in LDRS43 included kits, motors, rocket supplies, and other fun things.
6. Safety:
   
   
   • All participants must adhere to all safety regulations established by the TRA Contest and Records Committee and Indiana Rocketry.
   • Participants are solely responsible for the safe launch and recovery of their rockets.
   • Failure to comply with safety regulations will result in immediate disqualification.
7. Disputes:
   
   
   • Any disputes regarding the rules or the results of the competition will be resolved by the TRA Contest and Records Committee.
8. Amendments:
   
   
   • The TRA Contest and Records Committee reserves the right to amend these rules at any time. Any changes will be communicated to participants promptly.