GM1
Elite Veteran
Location: Tallahassee, Florida US
| Oh, but NO!Optikaman, et al:
To the best of my knowlege, there are only 2 full time professional R/C heli pilots in the US, Curtis and Wayne. I don't think that qualifies as the top 1%. The other two members of our US team have full time jobs, Dwight in the insurance industry, and Len for Horizon Hobbies. Our former World Champ, Cliff Hiatt works full time as an engineer for Lockheed Martin.
To answer the question : what do you receive out of this?, we could point out that the computer radio you are using was first designed for the competition flyer and all the later itterations were as a result of their needs, the heading hold gyro you fly was designed and used for competition, the big block motors exist currently because FAI changed the allowable motor size to 15cc (.91 cu in.). Maybe all of this stuff would have come about anyway BUT we got it quicker and better because the "pros" got it, worked with it, improved it, helped market it, and support it. I am a sponsored pilot. I do NOT get my stuff free. I pay for nearly everything, at a discount price but not nearly as big a discount as most people think. I try to keep 4 models flying (2 contest models, 1 sport fun fly model, and a model to test new stuff on), drive 10,000 miles a year in direct support of the hobby at my own expense, paying food and lodging out of my pocket. Most of the guys I know fall in the same category, we put in way more than we get out financially but are rewarded by the enjoyment we get in participating with other like minded modelers. I promise it is not for financial gain as the support is just not there.
I choose to compete and support our US team financially but do know others have little or no interest in doing it although I would hope they would support them in spirit. I bet most other heli flyers appreciate the time and effort required to compete at such a high level and have great respect for the people that do,( and I would bet secretly, you do too ) even if they aren't interested in the actual events.
Sorry if this comes off as a rant, my intention is to present a few facts and express my support. for some dedicated guys.
Gordie
On a dog sled team, if you're not the lead dog, the view never changes. |
