Model Aviation Event: Fly For Tots
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FUN-FLYS ARE great to attend. Not only do you get to do a lot of flying, but you also get to see a bit of everything, from helicopters to jets and all typesof propeller-driven models. AMA Chartered Club #733 The Raleigh Durham Radio Control Club (RDRC) Fly-for-Tots (FFT) event takes it to the next level; all money raised goes to a good cause. The club chose Victory Junction as its charity, and in 2009 a remarkable $27,100 was raised.
“It is so cool that somebody put together a charity fund-raiser around our sport. We can do what we love and contribute to a great cause.” —Fred Midgett of Higher Plane Productions
The key to this gathering is helping children, which RDRC President Larry Lewis reminded everyone throughout the weekend. A total of 230 pilots from throughout the US heard the call and converged at the club’s beautiful field the weekend of September 19-20.
“I come to Fly-for-Tots to help support a great cause that means a lot to me as well. I know what it is like for those kids to go and be able to do something normal like other kids. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I want to support the RDRC and Victory Junction Gang.” —Chris Carnes of Radio Active Airshows
No one made better use of that space than Jason Noll, who put on an amazing flying demonstration both days with his Extra. His model flirted with the ground, soybeans, and trees, to the amazement of the pilots and crowd alike. constructing this 1/3-scale Balsa USA PT-17 kit to add scale realism. The 250cc radial engine had no problem hauling the 54-pound, 118-inch wingspan, Stearman across the sky.
I have a bold—but honest—statement to make: FFT is like no other event I have attended. The mentality of those who were there was amazing. The event was all about fellowship and flying for a great cause.
“I think the best reason to come to Fly- for-Tots is because this event represents modeling in the coolest possible way ever. This does more for the community and is a great example for how people can contribute back to the community and make model aviation part of the community, rather than isolate it.” —Peter Goldsmith of Horizon Hobby
Yet throughout the event, the pilots flew together without issue. There was not even a midair, outside of the ParkZone T-28 mass flight. And that in itself was an amazing accomplishment; all 230 pilots flew from one flightline with no problems. It’s an example of what aeromodeling is about.
To date, more than 10,000 children have experienced everything the camp has to offer. It is a great opportunity for kids to set aside their health problems and enjoy themselves in a safe environment with new friends.
Another fantastic activity was a children’s raffle, in which the prizes were RTF electric-powered aircraft. They were given away almost every hour, and each winner received a promise from the club of free RC flight instruction. All the kids have to do is return on any weekend!
What a great way to introduce aeromodeling to the younger generation and their families and provide a positive learning experience. The kids’ excitement and enthusiasm about winning raffle prizes surpassed the adults’—except Nelson Phillips, who won the Grand Prize Package.
The noon demonstrations were a favorite, and the large contingent of spectators let pilots know when they saw something they liked. Robert Vess kept the interest and excitement high throughout most of the flying, with his spirited commentary via the loudspeakers. But he didn’t have to work hard; some of the best pilots in RC stole the show.
Many warbirds flew in groups designated by their type or era. World War I was well represented, and World War II had even more participation. A big draw was the “flight of bombers,” which consisted of bombers and ground-attack aircraft. Pyrotechnics were used at show center to create explosions when the models made their diving passes.
3-D and precision flying also had a good showing, with representation from Jason Noll, Seth Arnold, Jamie Hicks, RJ Gritter, club.
Chris Carnes, and Riley Kissenberth, to name only a few. Tails touched the grass, some great team flying was performed, and RC Aerobatics and IMAC (International Miniature Aerobatic Club) routines were flown.
Jerry Smith showed everyone why he is a repeat National Competition Fun Fly Champion while having fun with the crowd, pretending to be an inexperienced, elderly pilot.
Radio Active Airshows put on a demonstration with its flying lawn mower—something that amazes many people the first time they see it. This group also took its impressive simulator trailer, which provided spectators with the opportunity to experience RC flight on one of the two big-screen projectors. Even experienced pilots found it easy to get immersed in the experience.
The focus returned to the children each day at the close of demonstration flying, with a candy drop. A large group of kids of all ages stood along the flightline as several models took to the air with their precious cargo: more than 10 pounds of treats.
“I think that in the stressful times that we are in during a recession, anytime we can be a part of something to help someone, or at least give a smile to someone regardless of what level, be it a child or older person [we should]. Being a good influence is one of the main things, and I come to have fun with old friends and make new friends, and that’s why I am here.” MA —Jerry Smith, Fun Fly Champion
Once the aircraft dropped their payloads on the far side of the runway and were successfully recovered, the children sprinted to find the candy, in what closely resembled an Easter egg hunt. The club made sure no child walked away empty-handed.
The club even managed to give crowds a few surprises, such as full-scale flybys by a P-51 Mustang and a PT-17 Stearman.
There were several vendors at FFT, and not only did they provide raffle prizes, but some of them also donated a part of their sales to the event. Horizon Hobby supported the cause by attending and providing a free receiver, on the spot, to anyone who purchased a DSM transmitter from any of the vendors at the fly-in.
AMA President Dave Mathewson and District IV Vice President Bliss Teague also made it to the event. They helped support the fly-in and answered questions from members and the public.
“For the fun and entertainment and to see all the members in District IV.” —Bliss Teague, AMA District IV Vice President
What the RDRC has done with FFT is not only special; it’s nothing short of amazing. It has expanded the event each year in both attendance and money raised and has managed to garner the local community’s support. This proactive approach shows what a club can do for its community, instead of asking what its community can do for the club.
I hope that this fly-in will continue to grow and be successful, as well as be viewed as a model for other clubs that are looking for ways to give back to their communities. Our sport is one of the greatest in the world, and being able to enjoy it while making a difference to someone in need is truly fulfilling. Who could ask for anything more? MA
Jay Smith jays@modelaircraft.org