BEDFORD- Pilots took to the skies Saturday at the Spring Fun Fly R/C event hosted at the Virgil I. Grissom Municipal Airport. Pilots from as far away as Tennessee came to show off their skills in aerial acrobatics, along with some local boys who stole the show with what seemed to be physics-defying stunts while flying helicopters. “The hardest part is hovering, believe it or not,” said 20-year pilot and local talent Josh Easter. That is an impressive statement, considering he was hovering just a few millimeters above the grass…..upside down, and performing maneuvers.
This was the first year for the free Spring Fun Fly. Magic Morning Bakery provided doughnuts, Starbucks-furnished coffee, and cold water, all completely complimentary. Fixed-wing aircraft had the largest presence, but the agricultural drone demo, along with the helicopters, also made a big impression.
Master MC and Event Coordinator Dennis Trump said, “Thanks to Magic Morning and Starbucks for providing the coffee and doughnuts. A big thanks to all who came out to watch a bunch of us play with our toys.” It was an exciting morning filled with smiles, laughs, and plenty of mouths left standing wide open. The talent on display was inspiring. All of the pilots are amateurs. No sponsorships or corporate money goes into their hobby.
How much would it take to get into flying a helicopter capable of doing many of the maneuvers we witnessed? “You can get into it for under a thousand dollars.” Said Easter. I think it goes without saying that crashing would hurt your wallet as much as your pride.
A big thanks to Dennis Trump for allowing us to come out and enjoy the day and to Josh Easter for taking the time to speak with us. We’re looking forward to the event next year and even more edge-of-your-seat flying.
