The Berle Trophy

Soaring Lore - The Berle Trophy Origins by Mark Grubb

In 1989 OR 1990, Bill Berle, after multiple pitchers of margarita's in a dive bar in Stead, Nevada and a day of cooking on the ramp at the Reno Air Races, stated categorically that it was IMPOSSIBLE to fly a 500 km task in a 15-meter ship during the current "Berle Trophy Period" using only the typical thermal/ridge lift in our soaring area. He originally placed a bet with those in attendance of several hundred $$ - the exact amount is under dispute due to the alcohol haze in effect at the time, but I recall $500. Those in attendance - me, Rich Wagner, Bill Hinote (the only man to punch a hole through his foot by dropping a AS-W 20 wing root on it and a month later break his finger trying to point out a dust devil) and several others happily took the bet and thus the Berle Cup was born. The task period is October 30 to April 30 annually.

Jim Staniforth was voted (in abstentia) as the sole member of the Rules Committee. He took it upon himself to artfully and at great expense purchase and create the current magnificent trophy from a Bob's Big Boy statue, a permanent marker, and a razor blade.

Unfortunately, no one has ever collected from the original bet, despite several documented 500 km sorties. Bill now claims that all Berle Trophy winners owe him a ride in their ship and is refusing to pay until he gets his flights. Lawyers have been retained and the claims and counter-claims are currently being reviewed by the Supreme Court. It should be resolved by the next millenia.