Model air show to take flight

BROOKSVILLE - Just because an airplane is a "mini" doesn't mean it can't hold its own.
This weekend, local families and aviation enthusiasts will get the chance to see large model airplanes loop, circle and dive at the Hernando County Radio Control Club's Sixth Annual Big Bird Fly-In.

Held Nov. 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at New Potter's Field, the event will consist of model airplane hobbyists and their "big birds," or radio-controlled planes that are about one-fourth the size of real airplanes.

While the event is not a competition, every pilot who participates must have his plane quarter-scale or scale-documented, said assistant contest director Larry Hawkins.

"To qualify for a big bird, a plane either has to have a 60-inch wingspan or a single wing of at least 80 inches," he said.

A High Point resident, Hawkins said the local model aviation club attracts members of all ages, from 16 to 80.

"A lot of people say, 'You mean those things really fly?'" he said. "You control them from the ground, but they're capable of anything. They'll go out of sight until you can't see them anymore."

Since Saturday's event has also been featured in a national flying magazine, Hawkins said he expects the family-friendly showcase to attract entrants and spectators from across the state.

"We'll probably get people from all over Florida," he said. "And a lot of winter people come down around this time from up north, and they bring their airplanes. It's a lot of camaraderie."

With a nominal charge of $2 per carload for spectators and $5 per pilot, all profits will benefit Pasco-Hernando Hospice.

"We want to get as many people as we can," Hawkins said.

There will also be concessions, door prizes and raffles at the event.

Fellow club member Pete Christ emphasized the hobby's importance, and encouraged any locals who've never seen a show to bring lawn chairs, binoculars and family members to the field to watch.

"It's a great sport," he said. "We call it a hobby, but it's really a sport, and it's international now. In Las Vegas, they used to have a big bird tournament with a first prize of $50,000."

Pilot registration starts at 8:30 a.m., with the event kicking off at 9 a.m.

To get to New Potter's Field, take Ayers Road East from U.S. 41. Turn right onto Phillips Road, then another right on Bennes Roush Road. Follow the air show signs.

For more information, call Hawkins at 352-596-6883 or Christ at 352-232-0969.