Lahti Model Show 2.9.2023

OK, here we go. As in last year, the event was very nice: great models (close to 400) and plenty of visitors. And best of all, it looks that our hobby has a bright future, because there were several skillful teenagers participating the event. Good to see that not all of them are excited only by the internet & social media! Although, I have to admit that the majority of the modellers were old farts like myself !

There were also 3 different retailers, so plenty of temptations available. Manage to buy my childhood dream: Lamborghini Miura (by Hasegawa).

The judges awarded the best 3 of each category (51) and my IJN Tone was on top of the category "Watercraft". Also, IJN Kagero got a Honorary mention (is that correct english?) for rigging. On top of this the participating modellers (around 100) voted for the best model of the show, which was a diarama "Meeting at the sea". But, believe or not, my Tone took a split second place together with a 1/32 Phantom II F-4D (which I personally regarded as the best model with magnificent weathering and faultless details). Without any insincere modesty, I am totally blown away. To get this kind of recognition from your fellow modellers is absolutely the best. And once again, thank you guys for your invaluable tips! Could not have done it without you.

All in all, excellent show! I have divided the photos in groups, so maybe easier to check them by category.

Best model:

Impressive work covering different subjects.

As usual, there were plenty of nice aeroplane models from different eras. And as I said, the Phantom was my clear favourite of the show, but several others were equally impressive. Check, for example, that passenger liner "Kar-Air": those metal coloured surfaces actually are fine aluminium sheet (not painted!). Amazing stuff! And if you recognize that modified Finnish Air Force Hornet, then your eyes are lying. It does not exist, it is an imaginary development of the original fighter.

Various other fields were also covered by impressive models (sc-fi, fantasy, figures etc.).