Local and regional pilots as well as airplane enthusiasts could not have asked for more suitable weather during the annual Mother's Day Fly In Breakfast.
Following some late-day rain and hail on Saturday, conditions at the Sundre Airport had largely improved by Sunday morning ó despite a cool breeze, the skies were otherwise clear and the sun was shining.
Organizers had their concerns about the weather throughout the week leading up to the event, and Sundre Flying Club director and past president Bruce Goodwin told the Round Up Monday morning that pilots and visitors alike were relieved to see the sun shining.
"It turned out really well. You never know with the weather for an event like that," he said, adding inclement conditions can have a detrimental impact on the number of pilots who choose to fly in.
Among the aircraft landing at the local airport were some helicopters and an amphibious float plane, as well as a wide variety of planes ranging from more modern models to some that have soared for decades.
Miss Rodeo Sundre 2016 Martina Holtkamp and this year's contestants Alisa Brace and Dana Blasetti were among numerous volunteers helping to prepare a breakfast of pancakes, ham, sausages and eggs. The local IGA made available all the morning's fixings. Based on the amount of food cooked and served, Tom Mennear, who owns the grocery store, estimated as many as 500 people came through that morning.
Without the contributions of local volunteers, the event would not be possible, said Goodwin, who expressed his gratitude for all the help.
Sundre's airport, which is owned by Mountain View County and largely operated and maintained by members of the Sundre Flying Club, is an important asset for the community, said Goodwin.
Among those who flew in for the morning was Richard Reid, who owns a farm with a landing strip near Cremona. His grandson Evan Reid beamed with enthusiasm at the opportunity to go for a flight ó even if the trip only takes about 10 minutes by air.
Richard told the Round Up he enjoys making it out for the annual event when possible.
"Nice airport, nice people," he said.
