I'm sure someone here knows how the different classes at the Valdez stol competition are determined. Are there weight and horsepower limitations for each class or are there just designated models? I see that the light touring class for instance has C-172s and C-150s and Maules all competing together. Where would a C-140 compete or a J-3? I did a search and couldn't find anything...

This is what I found with a quick google search:

Rules for Classing of Aircraft:
1. Classes are defined below by model. If model is not indicated, then gross weight will be used, as defined by the aircraft’s airworthiness certificate.
Exception: All Experimental SEL will be in the “Alternate Bush Class”.
2. A class will not run without a minimum of 4 entrants in that class.
3. Note that classes below may not necessarily accommodate all aircraft.
4. NewentrieswillNOTbeallowedafterSTOLregistrationcloses(seeScheduleof
Events).
5. Competitions Director will make all determinations, which are final.
“Light Touring Class”:
 C-150, C-152, C-170, C-172, C-175, and C-177; Stinson 108-2; Maule M-4, M-5, M-6,
and M-7
 Otherwise, other FAA certified ASEL models as determined by gross weight from
2,301 to 2,499 lbs gross weight.
“Heavy Touring Class”:
 C-180, C-185, C-182, C-206, and C-210; Maule M-9-230
 Otherwise, other FAA certified ASEL models as determined by gross weight from
2,500 to 3,600 lbs gross weight.
“Alternate Experimental Bush Class”:
 Aircraft FAA licensed as Experimental Single Engine Land.
 Also, FAA certified ASEL models as determined by gross weight from 1,321 to 1,499 lbs. “Bush Class”:
 PA-12, 14, 18, and PA-22; Stinson 105; Citabra; Huskies; Tern; Scout
 Otherwise, other FAA certified ASEL models as determined by gross weight from
1,500 to 2,300 lbs gross weight.

I was thinking there were 4 classes. I was thinking there was a light bush class, then the alternate bush bush class that included the experimentals????

Here are the results from another thread.

Valdez Results 2014
Bush Class
3: Paul Claus 167'
2: Bob Breeden 119'
1: Bobby Breeden (61/55) 116'


Alternate Bush Class:
3: 120' Steve Henry Just Aircraft
2: 83' Josh Peppard SQ12
1: 76' Frank knapp Lil Cub


Hvy Touring 1st: Helio Courier (Low 200's)
Light Touring 1st: Cessna 170 (229')"

Those classes tend to basically eliminate some aircraft from reasonable competition. A Cessna 140 at 1450 pounds gross would have to compete against PA-18s instead of against a much more similar Cessna 150. A Piper Pacer should be competing against Cessna 170's and 172's. A 235 hp MX-7 shouldn't be in the same class as a C-172 either. Oh well, I guess you fly what you bring and everybody who knows anything can tell if you were any good.