HMB-3

The original idea for this track was suggested by fellow streamer Splasher_6, but the intended canyon had so many terrain issues that it had to be scrapped.   As a replacement, this one is offered.    Still, it turned out to be such a fun track that I'm still giving him credit for pointing me in this direction.    It would have taken me a lot longer to put a track here if it wasn't for his idea.

The HMB-3 airport sits atop a mesa just on the southern edge of Golden, Colorado.    It offers a nice view of this sleepy little town.   At least it was sleepy before MeeshTrax built a race here.

The start of the course begins near the Walstrum Quarry at the intersection of Hwy 6 and Interstate 70.  Walstrum Quarry is a primary source of road-bed for mountain roads.    The finish line is on top of the mesa just south of the Coors Brewery.  Coors is a primary source of... well... Coors.

So if you have a great run, you can celebrate it in Golden.   A miserable run can be commiserated similarly.   It's funny how we treat success and failure so close to the same way, isn't it?  I believe a study of the "human condition" could be conducted here.   I'm not saying we should, but at least you won't get thirsty.

There are a couple really tight corners that will necessitate aircraft capable of tight turns at slow speeds.   So my best advice is to start with a very nimble plane as you learn the track.    Then, as you attempt to increase your speed, flaps will help in these situations, but fair warning is given that this track will challenge you quickly as the speed increases.    The rock walls of the canyon are unforgiving in real life.    In the sim, they are little more than a nuisance.    That is, until you start mashing the "start" button repeatedly muttering something that sounds like revenge.    But how you handle disappointment is up to you.

However it still seems this is a good place to mention that this track will be fairly easy to finish.  But to finish quickly will bring out an aspect of your psyche that you might not know you have.    And a plane that doesn't turn well might require an expertly executed hammerhead stall turn in a couple of these tight canyons.    As you can see from the pictures, this track can be flown in planes you wouldn't normally expect to use in a "race".   Be creative.   Flying an under-powered plane is a great way to show off your skills.  Anyone can fly fast and turn left.    This track with a potato powered kite will get you the respect you deserve.  

It is assumed that you won't need a yellow line painted on the ground to follow the river run.   That being said, if you get to Golden and lose your way, the last 2 pylons are on top of the mesa at the airport.    Just complete the pylon set that's close to the football field and then head for the hill.