The Aviators

On Tuesday we (Bill, Gary, Jackie, Linda and myself) set off for a day trip to the Naples Zoo. On our way we passed the flying field were the Lake Placid Flying Club members meet every morning. This was the first time we had seen anyone at the field and we stopped in for a breif visit. Almost three hours later we were on our way to Tampa.

We were greeted most cordially and were soon deep in conversation with some of the members. Irv, the club trainer invited all three of us to take a turn at the stick of one of the club training planes, a Kadet LT40. Gary, an experienced pilot was first up, followed by Bill and then, reluctantly, myself.

We all left with a high level of enthusiasm to return the following day. At 8:00am we arrived and met a few of the early morning flyers. Charlie, an ex navy pilot and retired commercial pilot was there with an outstanding Yak stunt plane, powered by a 50cc four stroke engine and wit an 8'-0" wingspan.

Needless to say his prowess at the stick was most impressive. By the time Irv showed up with the trainer winds had picked up dramatically and we were unable to fly.

Today Bill and I had a chance to once again get airbourne with Irv's assistance. I think I am going to build a plane, most likely a Chance Voight F4U Corsair. Bill remains enthusiastic but it remains to be seen what his intentions may be.

The RC flying community here are very friendly and accomadating. We have been t Irv's garage and seen his great collection of aircraft. Tomorrow Charlie is taking us to his 'warehouse' to show us his collection. Can't wait.