I started flying RC sailplanes off the beach in California in 1980. Groundbreaking for the new AMA headquarters and National Model Aviation Museum in Reston, VA, hadn't even begun yet. Back then it seemed too far away for me to ever visit.

After moving to Cincinnati and eventually getting back into RC last year I was just a two hour drive away from Muncie, Indiana, site of the new AMA headquarters and museum since 1992. IMAC competition finally brought me to Muncie and the International Aeromodeling Center this past weekend. Even though I was intent on spending the day Friday practicing for the Regional Championships, I took some time to visit the museum before practice and after the event was over on Sunday. The museum is first class and was well worth the little time I had. I don't think even a full day could begin to cover all the items on display. If you are ever in the area, visit a bit of model aviation history. You will not regret it!

One of the most interesting items for me was a replica of a powered model plane built and flown in 1871 by Penaud. It looks almost modern in its conception, yet it flew successfully a full 32 years before the Wright brothers took off in Kitty Hawk. There is much to be amazed at in this beautiful display of aviation history.

I'm sorry the quality of these photos isn't the best. I only had my phone with me....Continue Reading

See here for latest entry to my IMAC Log.

See here for the latest entry in my IMAC Log.

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I just touched down less than an hour ago, after waiting for a lull in the wind. The forecast initially said winds up to 16 mph. OK, no problem. It's always good to get some IMAC practice in less than ideal conditions, since the weather can be equally bad on contest days.

After taking off I immediately ran into turbulent air. It tossed my big Extra around like a plaything. I had to nose into the wind hard to maintain a vertical up line. As I slowed to a stop for the hammerhead the plane drifted about a hundred feet downwind. It was a wild ride!

After landing the weather report said winds were 16 gusting to 24. I was lucky to get this bird safely back on the ground. (I can't imagine what living through Hurricane Harvey was like. It's hard to appreciate good weather until you're stuck in the bad.)

I waited two hours for the winds to calm down a bit before making a second flight, then called it a day.

Windy Day at AirMasters RC Field (0 min 15 sec)