Futaba Team USA

Futaba USA has cultivated the ultimate grouping of talented, knowledgeable RC pilots and drivers to represent Futaba. When selecting team members, we look for ambition, passion, motivation, and reliability as well as being skilled in their hobby. They are truly the best of the best.

Team Futaba Air

Each year, Futaba selects a prestigious few Advocates and sanctions them to be official Futaba Ambassadors. These pilots and drivers are considered the faces of the Futaba Radio Control brand due to their talents and credibility on behalf of the Futaba name. At events, online, or even just at their local field/track, these are representatives of the Futaba Team that demonstrate the caliber of skill and knowledge an expert should.

A.J. Jaffe

My hobbies of choice include scale aerobatics (IMAC) and 3D helicopters - I especially enjoy them using my Futaba 18SZ transmitter and CGY760 gyro. I'm proud to have accomplished the title of 2018 IMAC Intermediate World Champion. My dad taught me to fly - I've been flying since I was nine - and I am lucky to have been able to turn my hobby into a career! I'm a huge Boston sports fan, especially hockey, and I have visited 36 states so far and hope to see them all. My favorite fields are AMA Headquarters in Muncie and Bear Mountain Flyers in California. Follow A.J. on Facebook.

AC Glenn

My hobby of choice is model airplanes - my dad got me into the hobby and we still fly together. I love my Futaba 32MZ transmitter and am proudest of placing ninth at the 2017 F3A World Championship. I enjoy Top Golf and long walks on the beach, and I fly UAVs for a living. I am a hot wing connoisseur and have been working on my modeling career. Email AC Glenn at AirplaneShawty@iCloud.com Follow AC on Facebook and Instagram.

Adam Drake

RC racing is my passion, but I also enjoy supercross, motocross, and bowling. My favorite Futaba product is the Futaba 7PX Limited Edition radio system. My favorite R/C accomplishments are my 5 ROAR National Championships, Neo Buggy Championships, and just helping racers at events around the world. My favorite track is Thunder Alley Raceway in Beaumont, CA. Email Adam Drake at AdamDrake117@Gmail.com Follow Adam on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.

AJ Hemken

I enjoy RC flying, golf, hockey, snowmobiling, cooking, grilling, boating, and travel. My favorite Futaba product is the 18SZ and I'm proudest of making my first USA F3D Team in 2016. My favorite sports team is the Minnesota Vikings (SKOL), I enjoy listening to country music, and if I'm honest my favorite hobby is golf. I try to play as much as I can and my dream job would be PGA teaching Professional. My father's name is Gregg, my mother's name is Patrice, I have one older sister named Christina and she has two kids named Connor and Kiah. My favorite fields are Old Julian in NC and AMA in Muncie, IN. Email AJ Hemken at AnthonyHemken@Yahoo.com Follow AJ on Facebook and Instagram.

Alan Szabo Jr.

I have been piloting RC helicopters since I was 12 and RC airplanes since I was four. If I had to pick, my favorite Futaba products would be the CGY760 gyro and 18SZ radio. I'm proud to have earned the title of 2007 XFC Heli Division Winner and I hold a private pilot license in fixed wing and rotatory wing. I enjoy riding motorcycles, going boating, horology, and shooting photography. My favorite field is William Bennett Air Field in Las Vegas, NV. Follow Alan on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Alex Kosciuszek

Although I am a full-time college student studying Mechanical Engineering, I have a lot of hobbies like driving RC, baseball, watching F1, video games, and hanging out with friends/family. The 7PX is my favorite Futaba product - switching to Futaba was my first ever sponsor change in my RC career and I have loved every minute of it! My proudest accomplishment is winning 4WD Open at the 2016 REEDY Race of Champions. My favorite sports teams are the New York Yankees and the New England Patriots, I like designing and printing 3D objects in my spare time, and Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel are my favorite F1 team and driver. My favorite tracks are OCRC Raceway and Trackside Hobbies. Follow Alex on Facebook and Instagram.

Andrew Rizzo

I love driving RC with my Futaba 7PX Limited Edition transmitter. I've always used Futaba since my Magnum Junior, seriously never used anything else! I love camping and building furniture, my favorite accomplishment is earning second in the Quebec Classic for Nitro Buggy, and my wife and I run a German Short-Haired Pointer Dog Rescue. My favorite track is Ohio RC Factory.

Andrew Jesky

My hobby of choice is flying precision aerobatics/IMAC 3D. Choosing a single favorite Futaba product would be difficult, but I can narrow it down to the 18MZ and all BLS servos. My proudest accomplishment is winning third place individual and first place team at 2011 F3A. I play hockey two or three times a week in an organized hockey league and I fly UAVs for work in Utah. When I'm getting ready to fly, I'm listening to country music through my headphones. My prized possessions are the memories I've made with my RC friends, and of all the places I've been fortunate enough to visit...Italy is my favorite. My favorite field is Clover Creek, TN. Follow Andrew on Facebook and Instagram.

Ben Weaver

My name is Ben Weaver, and I started flying in 2021. My first flights were at a local hobby hobby shop just a few minutes from where I live, with the help of the owner. I have always flew with futaba starting off with a t6k, then upgraded to a 16iz in 2023. Since then, my passion for rc planes, especially aerobatic/3d flying has been growing.

Ben Storick

My hobbies of choice include RC helicopters, planes, cars, and quad racing. I love my Futaba 18SZ radio and CGY760 gyro. My proudest accomplishment is placing second at the 2014 Zone Format Competition. I was born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, but I enjoy traveling and being able to check out new places. I enjoy photography - I have an iPhone photography Instagram - and I love to play guitar. I might even consider joining a band someday! I also love to bowl; one of my favorite professional bowlers is Jason Belmonte. My favorite field is William Bennett Airfield in Las Vegas. Follow Ben on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Bill Malvey

My favorite hobbies include soaring (F5J), sport scale, IMAC, pattern, and helicopters. I really enjoy using my Futaba 18SZ and Futaba S.Bus servos. I am very proud to have run SCAT Scale Aerobatics Series in SW from 2001-2005. I am a professional geologist - oil exploration/hazmat, an FAA certified private pilot with glider add-on, and an FAA Part 107 certified sUAS pilot. I'm a graduate of the US Navy Nuclear Power Program and an FCC licensed amateur radio operator. My favorite field is OCMA in Orange County, CA.

Brandon Rosenquist

So I was introduced to rc flying as a young kid with my father. After he moved to flying full scale we got away from the hobby until my mid 20’s around 2006 when I wondered into a hobby shop and purchased a p51. First day out at the field in SLC Utah several guys showed up with iMac airplanes. Cardens and Daltons. Watching them fly I was instantly hooked and knew I had to learn. So went home purchased my first 35% and 2 weeks later was my first IMac contest. I’ve never felt more welcomed into any sport or hobby than I was with the IMac family. Precision aerobatics is my true passion and helping to grow the IMAC community! I’m currently flying in the Unlimited class with a Kam Aero extra NG and a Kam Aero extra 300. Both are set up identical with a Da200, qc120 exhaust, Futaba aa702’s in the wings, Futaba a703’s in the tail, Futaba 7208 receivers with 900mhz backup and dlph-2 for power distribution. Guided by a Futaba 32mz and 18sz.

Bryan Blanchard

I enjoy flying RC airplanes with my Futaba 16SZ and finished 2nd at the 2019 Pro NATS. My other proudest accomplishments are when I was in the NATS Championship in 2015 and when I called for my dad for his second Q500. I am a bartender in downtown Charleston, SC who enjoys building motorcycles, bike riding, and New York Yankees baseball. My favorite fields are Old Julian Airport in Liberty, NC and AMA in Muncie, IN. Email Bryan Blanchard at PlayHardCycles@Gmail.com

Chad Northeast

I enjoy RC modelling and skiing. The Futaba 32MZ is (of course!) my favorite product, and my favorite accomplishment is the first time I was a finalist in the US NATS. I am married to Agnes and have two sons, Matthew and Thomas. I am an engineer in my professional life and manage an engineering team in the oil and gas sector. Although I am from Canada, I learned to fly in Minot, ND. I first started competing in Q500 racing but switched to pattern and have been active in it ever since. As of 2019, I have competed for Canada in nine World Championships! My favorite field is AMA Site, Muncie, IN. Email Chad Northeast at ChadNortheast@Gmail.com

Chris Siembieda

I enjoy a wide variety of R/C hobbies including 1/10 RWD drifting, scale rock crawling, custom scale builds, monster trucks, desert racers, 3D design and printing, custom vinyl and decals. The Futaba 7PX is by far my favorite product, the combo of the 7PX, MC970 esc and GYD550 gyro is unmatched. My favorite tracks are Cookeville Hobbies drift track, Buddha's RC ranch, Drift Ninja's slab, and Super G drift. My biggest accomplishment was Finding my dream job with Monster Energy, giving me a work/life balance I've never had before which allows for more RC time!

Cole Ogden

I enjoy driving 1/8-scale buggy and truggy with my Futaba 7PX, of course. My proudest accomplishment is when I took the double win in Pro Nitro Buggy and Pro Nitro Truggy the weekend after 2014 IMAR Worlds at the Southern Nationals held in West Monroe, LA. I like golfing when I'm not racing RC. It really helps with mental preparation and hand eye coordination. golf is a complex game and keeping composed is also a key to being a better golfer. I also enjoy watching football - I'm a Miami Hurricane fan and, for NFL, like to see the Dallas Cowboys do well. I took flying lessons in my younger days and always wanted to be a commercial pilot (or at least get my commercial pilot license) so I can fly people around the world. Traveling for RC can definitely get hectic, so when I'm home from a crazy travel schedule, I prefer to chill at the house and sometimes go out for a drink with friends. I really enjoy playing cornhole while at races or anywhere really. I'm athletic and played soccer throughout my middle/high school days, so I also like to do anything involving sports. My favorite track is Circulo Verde, home of the Philippine Masters. Follow Cole on Facebook and Instagram.

Dan Skuropacki Yuma, AZ

With 25 years of experience as an RC hobbyist, I have a deep passion for Giant Scale 3D Aerobatics, turbine-powered sport jets, and thrust-vectoring jets. For the past 6.5 years, I have also flown professionally as a Senior UAS Pilot, blending my lifelong enthusiasm with industry expertise. My current radio systems of choice are the Futaba 32MZ and the 16IZ, delivering precision and reliability.

Darwin Barrie

My favorite hobby is competition sailplanes which I enjoy flying with my Futaba 18SZ 70th Anniversary Edition. The accomplishments I'm proudest of are earning commercial/instrument rating in both fixed wing and helicopters as well as getting to fly medical helicopters! I have built two full-scale Van's RV 7s. My retirement job is flying medical helicopters for a living and also flying the old Bell 47s on tours at Oshkosh Airventure every summer. My oldest son followed in my footsteps with my first career and is in law enforcement and my youngest son is a popular Sports Center celebrity on ESPN. I'm blessed to live on an airport and have a beautiful home with a hangar attached. I'm collecting all kinds of balsa kits that I have had over the years to build when I fully retire in 2020. My favorite field is Elliot Bowl in Mesa, AZ. Email Darwin Barrie at KTLKRN@Gmail.com Follow Darwin on Facebook.

Dr. Ben Minor

First and foremost, my favorite hobby is radio-controlled model helicopters. I also enjoy electric unicycles, lawn care, and gardening. My favorite Futaba products are the 32MZ transmitter and CGY760 gyro. I'm proud to have been AMA Class Model Helicopter National Champion several times. I regularly tempt life and limb riding my electric unicycle. I'm almost as fussy about my yard (especially the grass) as I am about my models. I have been a very proud Team Futaba member for 22+ years and have flown model helicopters for 33+ years. I'm a partially retired veterinarian - I have more time for hobbies now, but still love practicing medicine. I provide US service and support for a well-known manufacturer of model electric motors and speed controls and serve as a liaison between their products and those of other manufacturers, including Futaba. My favorite field is Triple Tree Aerodrome. Email Dr. Ben Minor at TBMinor1968@Gmail.com or you can find him on most online forums as Dr. Ben.

Dustin Evans

I enjoy road cycling and racing RC cars; for RC driving, the Futaba 7PX is my favorite radio to use. I am a 2-time Reedy Invitational winner and National Champion and racing has been a huge part of my life since I was five years old...from racing RC, BMX, Go-Karts, and road bikes (which I still enjoy racing when I'm not driving RC). My favorite sports team is the Denver Broncos. My favorite track is OCRC in Huntington Beach, California. Follow Dustin on Facebook and Instagram.

Edgar Vera

I enjoy flying and completing with RC gliders in following categories: F3J, F3K, F5J, F3F. I've also started to fly RC drones for filming different life experiences during outdoor entertainment. Flying is made better with the Futaba 18MZ transmitter; the programming and different capabilities allow for easy flying model set-ups and unlimited functional options. My favorite accomplishment is having been able to attend and complete annually at the 2-day thermal duration contest in Visalia, CA. for 22+ years. Winning this contest opened the door for me to become a Team Futaba Member, which I would say has been the best part of it all. One favorite activity I enjoy is off-road trail exploring and camping. It's great to find a remote location where you can enjoy nature and get away from the daily noise of cell phones, TVs and other electronic items we all seem we can't live without. My favorite sports team is by far the Oakland Raiders. Growing up, it was fun watching this team play rough and nasty football. Another hobby that I enjoy is restoring old classic cars from the 1960s and early 1970s. It is great to find a car and bring it back to life; I enjoy spending the necessary time to hunt down the rare parts needed to get these old cars back on the road. A new hobby I've been introduced into is horology - the study of time and the art of timekeeping. Of course, this has opened my interest in to collecting and enjoying many different watches from different origins around the world. Fly Fishing is another activity I enjoy and have become an expert at tying my own fly-fishing lures. It is a great activity to clear your mind and trying new tricks to catch many types of fish. My favorite field is CVRC club location in Visalia, CA. It is a vast, open land that allows for far away flying to chase thermals for our glider soaring competitions. Email Edgar Vera at VeraEJ1313@gmail.com

Gary Schmidt

My hobby of choice is pylon racing with my Futaba 18SZ radio. I am a three-time AMA National Champion, and my airplane hobby/addition lead to my career as an Unmanned Aircraft Pilot/Instructor with a major defense contractor! I am married to Claudia Schmidt, the best thing that's ever happened to me. She's embraced my hobby and enjoys traveling with me (both to pylon racing events and on fun vacations that often involving beautiful sandy beaches.) I am a second generation modeler who was taught to fly at age eight by my father, Jerry. I enjoy classic cars and plan on restoring a car of my own in the future, and my favorite teams are AZ Cardinals and AZ Diamondbacks. I also enjoy all forms of motorsports! My favorite track is Speedworld RC Flyers, Phoenix, AZ. Email Gary Schmidt at GaryESchmidt@Hotmail.com Follow Gary on Facebook.

Glen Watson

Located in SE Texas, originally from western PA. Glen was introduced to RC aircraft at an early age in the mid-sixties by his father. He has been an avid RC model builder and pilot ever since. Precision Aerobatic competition has been a main passion from 1994 to current, however Glen is active in other RC aircraft genres. He joined Team Futaba in 1999 after becoming the 1998 Advanced AMA National champion. As a Team Futaba member his additional accomplishments include 2007 Masters AMA National champion, 6-time AMA Masters class National finalist, 7-time NSRCA district 6 Champion with 50+ first place finishes in regional competitions. Futaba’s quality and reliability have played a huge part to these achievements. More details on Glen’s RC background along with aircraft and equipment he uses can be viewed at https://glenwatson.blogspot.com/.

Greyson Pritchett

I enjoy flying airplanes including F3A (pattern), IMAC, 3D, and F3P (indoor). My Futaba 18MZ transmitter is the best, and I'm proud to have won third place at the 2019 F3A AMA Pattern Nationals. I'm a fan of Indiana University basketball and Indianapolis Colts. I enjoy high-performance cars, paintball, and hanging out with our dog (Stella). I'm getting into designing and building my own model aircraft designs. My favorite field is Tucson Aerobatic Shootout. Email Greyson Pritchett at GreysonPritch@Gmail.com Follow Greyson on Facebook.

Jackson Brunson

I enjoy racing anything with an engine and tires, especially with my Futaba 7PX radio. I have two proudest accomplishments: I made the semis at the Fuel Nationals, and won second in Pro E-Buggy at Fall Brawl. There isn't a day where I don't do something RC related, but outside of RC, I enjoy watching F1 racing all the time - my favorite team is Ferrari. I'm an organizing freak that cannot stand a wrench room or anything that isn't organized. I'm a very picky eater; I enjoy my steaks with ranch, and my favorite snack is called Puppy Chow. My mom has made Puppy Chow since I was in elementary school - it's Rice Chex, peanut butter, chocolate, and powdered sugar. My favorite track is Loganville RC Complex. Email Jackson Brunson at JacksonBruns99@Gmail.com Follow Jackson on Facebook, Tik Tok (@Jackson_Brunson), and Instagram.

Jason Russell

I have been involved with flying RC helicopters and airplanes for 25+ amazing years. My father got me into model aviation when I was 10 years old. We learned how to fly in southern California slop soaring. The life-long love of model aircraft quickly took over and I have now introduced my two step-sons to the hobby! Outside of flying, I enjoy camping, fishing, and boating. The Futaba CGY760 gyro is easily my favorite product, and my favorite field is the AMA Headquarters.

Jason 'UncleJas' Shulman

My hobby of choice is model aircraft, though picking a favorite Futaba to hobby with is a difficult decision! My all-time favorite is the 9ZAP, but currently I love the R7003SB because it is nice and small/lightweight - perfect for F3A pattern planes! I have two favorite accomplishments: flying an electric plane in the 2003 F3A World Championships in Poland, and being Kal Reifsnyder's caller at the 2019 F3A World Championships in Italy...watching him become the Junior World Champion. I am a third generation RC flyer, and my home field/club is RCACF. Great people, facilities, and it has a pattern box!

Jim Allen

I enjoy RC aircraft of all types, but focus on Pylon Racing with my Futaba R7006SB receivers. My other hobbies include classic cars (1966 Corvair) and riding ATVs in the Imperial Sand Dunes - riding a wicked KTM ATV in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area is like a roller coaster ride that stops when you decide (most of the time). Been doing it for over 30 years with wife and friends. My wife, Debbie, has a wicked KTM too and really knows how to ride it. My favorite accomplishment is winning the 2019 426 Quickie NATS with a Monokote covered ARF Quik-V6 that I designed - it was kitted by Great Planes - and won against all of the composite wing or full-composite quickie designs. My wife Debbie is a national caliber Western horse show competitor and trainer with several national titles. The show horses are boarded and trained at home facilities. My Australian Shepherds, Bandit and Hutch, put smiles on our face every day. I worked for Honeywell and predecessors since 1986 and as an Air Safety Investigator since 2002. My prized possession is a 1966 Corvair 500 restored to concourse level by Dad, Jim Sr, and Blue Max II fun fly plane was my first RC design published in Feb '85 Model Aviation and kitted by Off the Ground Models/ACE R/C. My favorite field is Speedworld RC Flyers field in Wittman, Arizona. Email Jim Allen at JamesEA1@EarthLink.net

Joe Bornhorst

I enjoy racing RC cars, flying RC planes, and following motocross/supercross. I love my Futaba 7PX transmitter, and my favorite accomplishments are winning my first two ROAR National Championships (2018 & 2019) and winning Pro Truggy at Silver State 2019. I grew up racing motocross from ages four to 17, but suffered a severely broken leg in 2010 which focused me to step away. I still follow the sport closely, but after getting hurt I started racing RC. I only raced RC a little over three years before turning professional; after turning my hobby into a job, I needed a new hobby! So I turned to RC planes which I still like ot fly from time to time when my schedule allows. I got engaged in 2019 and am getting married October 2020, and I enjoy getting to see all of the new places that I get to go because of racing. I'm always thankful to have my dream job of traveling and racing for a living. My favorite tracks are LCRC in Pennsylvania and Beans RC in Ohio. Follow Joe on Facebook and Instagram.

Kal 'Fiddy' Reifsnyder

I love to fly radio-controlled airplanes and play baseball; my favorite Futaba products are my HPS-A700 servos. I'm proud to have accomplished being the F3A Junior World Champion in 2019, and my favorite sports team is FSU. I love to fish, play video games, and have played baseball for 12+ years. My favorite field is Clover Creek Aerodrome.

Kevin Young

Kevin Garland

Based in Iowa, Kevin Garland has been deeply involved in the world of radio control aviation for nearly 30 years. A dedicated Team Futaba pilot since 2013, Kevin specializes in precision aerobatics (IMAC), actively competing in both the Unlimited and Freestyle classes. Kevin’s aviation expertise extends well beyond RC. He holds a Commercial Pilot Certificate and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating, and currently works in the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) industry. His combined experience in manned and unmanned aviation gives him a well-rounded and forward-looking perspective that he brings to the Futaba team. As a long-time Futaba user and advocate, Kevin is proud to represent a brand known for its reliability and innovation in RC technology.

Kody Donath Tucson, AZ

My name is Kody Donath, I am 17 years old and I started flying about 4 years ago now, I began to compete in IMAC in 2023 and freestyle in 2024, I quickly became obsessed with the hobby and aviation in general making it a part of my everyday life and definitely plan on making it my future.

Manuel Santos

I love piloting RC airplanes and also enjoy making films with drones. The Futaba 18MZ radio is my favorite product by far, and I'm proud to have participated in XFC. I am a photographer and cinematographer, and I have an amazing family with my wife Elisa and two wonderful children, Manuel and Valentina. My favorite field is RC Texcoco in Mexico.

Marcus Blanchard

I enjoy flying RC airplanes with my Futaba 16SZ and am a two-time NATS Q500 Champion (2002 & 2015). I am a fan of the New York Yankees and I enjoy spending time with my wife, daughter, and son (who is also on Team Futaba). I am a small business owner - Just for Fun Playgrounds - and have a degree in aeronautical maintenance engineering. My favorite field is AMA in Muncie, IN. Email Marcus Blanchard at Marcus18992000@Yahoo.com

Mark Griggs

I enjoy flying RC helicopters with my 18SZ and my CGY760 gyro, which also happens to be my favorite Futaba product. I'm a huge college football fan - go Notre Dame Fighting Irish! Each May, I get to drive the 5th place finisher of the 1971 Indy 500. We cruise about 140 mph around the track! My favorite accomplishment is beating a few of the top guys in a spot auto contest. The flying field I consider my favorite is Triple Tree Aerodrome in SC. Email Mark Griggs at Maj_Griggs@Yahoo.com Follow Mark on Facebook.

Mark Atwood

I enjoy flying F3A precision aerobatics, sport RC, and full-scale. My favorite Futaba product is the 18SZ radio. I am a relatively new, full-scale, instrument-rated pilot and I'm learning to enjoy all aspects of aviation. With my new granddaughter, I have entered the next stage of my life as a grandpa. My favorite accomplishment is the full-scale construction of an RV14A Aircraft. Email Mark Atwood at AtwoodM@Paragon-inc.com

Matthew Botos

I really enjoy anything RC, but especially helicopters. The Futaba CGY760 gyro combined with Futaba HPS servos are unbeatable! I am proud to have accomplished designing and owning Synergy RC Helicopters and Rail Blades. I was the Ohio State Pole Vault Champion in 1991, my first car was a 1978 Chevrolet Monte Carlo purchased for $500, and my favorite vacation spot is Playa Del Carmen, MX. I've been a PC Gamer since the Commodore 64 and still enjoy playing PC games today. The worst job I ever had was selling Kirby Vacuum Cleaners in the summer of 1993. My favorite field is Mac Hodges in Americus, GA. Email Matthew Botos at Matt@MattBotos.com Follow Matt on Facebook.

Michi Akimoto

I love F3A precision aerobatics, 3D planes, helicopters, and indoor flying. I couldn't pick a favorite Futaba product; the best Futaba products are the 32MZ and 18MZ radios, BLS servos, CGY750 gyro, GPS sensor, and anything using the S.Bus telemetry system. I'm a four-time Canadian National Team Pilot at the F3A World Championships, and I was a semi-finalist at the World Championships in Argentina and the AOC in Taiwan. I enjoy traveling and meeting new pilots around the world as well as building and crafting. I am the father of a fun, trouble-making daughter with a creative imagination, and I enjoy cooking (and eating!) Japanese food...especially sushi! Since I moved from Japan, I am now used to driving on the wrong side of the road. My favorite field is VRCMS. Email Michi Akimoto at MichiCanada@Shaw.ca Follow Michi on Facebook.

Mike Truhe

I enjoy racing cars, flying planes, and everything else RC related! My favorite Futaba product is the 7PX, and the accomplishments I'm proudest of include World's Top Qualifier and runner-up, my national championships, and growing the Futaba popularity across the industry from top pros to average Joes! I really enjoy hanging out with my friends in and out of the RC industry, and I'm passionate about passing on the knowledge I have learned in this industry from my mentors on to the new generation. I am fascinated with flight, both RC and full-scale, I enjoy challenging my mind into any task I'm not familiar with, and I started working in the semiconductor industry this past year and have enjoyed the challenge. My favorite track is the Nitro Compound in Arizona.

Mike 'Grimracer' Zaborowski

I enjoy radio control hobbies of all types - planes, helicopters, boats...telemetry in RC boating is VERY powerful! Especially when paired with an incredible system like the 7PX Limited Edition. I am proud to have been inducted into the International Model Power Boating Association's (IMPBA) Hall of Fame as well as receiving the William E. LeFeber award in 2008. I am an avid model railroader; I have a home layout as well as belong to a local model railroad club. I have a sweet and VERY rare muscle car that I keep tucked in the corner of the garage. My 1969 Hurst SC/Rambler is one of 1412 made and only 500 in the derived paint! I love drag racing and build models in 1/24-scale. I have a new in box collection of over 125 kits! Model rocketry is also a big part of my hobby enjoyment; I hold a L2 with the National Association of Rocketry (NAR). I have patents for a product called an "infant simulator". Yep.. those Baby Think It Over dolls you took home from school and had to care for that cried and screamed all night? Sorry about that! In the world of RC boating, the Mendota, IL pond is about as good as they come. The locals are great and so is the racing! When it comes to flying, the AMA facility is very nice. I love attending the NATS! Email Mike 'Grimracer' Zaboroski at GrimracerCNC@Yahoo.com Follow Grimracer on Facebook and his website.

Mitch Marozas

My hobby of choice is flying RC helicopters, especially with my Futaba CGY760 gyros. In 2016, I achieved my proudest accomplishment of 1st place Freestyle Global 3D. My secondary hobby is drag racing, and I enjoy cheering on the Chicago bears and my brother who plays football at Indiana University. I was once on the Nickelodeon show "Figure It Out" flying an RC helicopter, but nowadays my favorite field is Traffic Port Venlo. Follow Mitch on Facebook.

Nic Case

I enjoy going fast with radio-controlled cars, especially when I'm driving with my Futaba 7PX! I made it into the Guinness World Record with taking my RC Bullet 202 mph. I'm lucky to be an American, happily married, and love dogs. I'm a clay modeler for Ford Motor Company and hope to see the Northern Lights one day! My favorite track is Encino Velodrome.

Paul Stenberg

I enjoy RC turbines, scale, and racing. My favorite Futaba products are the 18SZ and 12Z radios and the R6014HS and R7008SB receivers. I'm proudest of accomplishing being notable in Formula 1 airplane racing, both flying and MFG, being a class winner in USScalemasters Competition, and co-owning House of Balsa/ZAP Western Distributor with my wife. I was a collegiate soccer player, I'm a fan of Clarkson Golden Knights college hockey, and my favorite non-RC hobby is golf. I've been married to my wife Pat for 40+ years - we have no children just dogs and cats. My prized possessions are all of the great friends we have made in and out of the hobby! I enjoy flying at Speedworld RC Flyers in Surprise, AZ! Email Paul Stenberg at HobandZap@AOL.com or PaulSF86@Prodigy.net

Paul Lemieux

My hobby of choice is driving modified touring cars. The Futaba BLS551 low profile servo is easily my favorite product to use! I am proud to have won the Reedy Race of Champions, and I run a very basic setup. My full-time job is running Gravity RC and Motiv RC, as well as being a father. As of Spring 2020, I will have four children. My oldest son, Chase, is now a better RC driver than I am! I was born in Green Bay, so of course the Green Bay Packers are my favorite NFL team. My favorite track is Trackside Hobbies Raceway in Brookfield, WI.

Rocky 'RockoFlex' McCarter

Managing Team Thunder Tiger and winning the XFC are my all-time favorite accomplishments, but they are closely followed by being chosen to fly Team Futaba and working for Flex Innovations, which are both pretty awesome. I love to BBQ and have also worked as a chef - I really enjoy BBQ catering. My prized possessions are my dogs. My favorite fields are the AMA field and Rabbit Dry Lake in southern California.

Ryan and Mark Pavidis

RYAN: I enjoy driving off-road 1/8-scale using Futaba HPS-CB700 servos. Two accomplishments I'm proud of are winning E-Buggy at the 2018 Dirt Nitro Challenge and graduating high school a year early. I'm studying to become a mechanical engineer, like to ride dirt bikes and mountain bikes...really anything with two wheels, and I have one sibling. I've been to 11 different states and three different countries, and in all that traveling I have two favorite tracks: Thunder Alley Raceway in Beaumont, CA and Silver Dollar Raceway in Chico, CA. Email Ryan Pavidis at RyanPavidis@Gmail.com Follow Ryan on Facebook. MARK: My hobby is driving 1/8-scale nitro buggy. The Magnum Jr. was my first Futaba product and I've been hooked ever since. I have won 1/10-Scale Nitro Touring Car World Champion, 1/10-Scale 4WD Electric Off-Road World Champion, and 1/8-Scale Off-Road Buggy World Champion. I enjoy mountain biking and road bike riding, camping with my family in the Sierras, cruising with my wife, traveling, and motocross. My favorite track is Palm Desert R/C Raceway. Follow Mark on Facebook and Instagram.

Ryan Lutz

Off-road RC racing is my hobby of choice, especially complimented by my Futaba 7PX transmitter. My favorite accomplishment is having earned 2019 DXR Dirt Kings Champion. I donate all my trophies at the end of each year with any proceeds going to charity. I have four children, and no matter where I have lived, I always root for Cleveland sports. I wanted to be a pro at bowling (high game 299, series 802). My favorite track is Thornhill Racing Circuit. Email Ryan Lutz at Lutzinator408@Gmail.com

Spencer Rivkin

My hobby of choice is RC car racing (favorite class is 2WD Buggy) which is made even better with my Futaba 7PX. I would say my two 2WD Off-Road World Championship victories are my proudest accomplishment. I'm a big New England Patriots fan and I enjoy bowling and football. I love checking out new food places when traveling the world and although my family is from the East Coast, I was born in AZ. I collect RC tools, mostly ones that are hard to come by such as the Brian Kinwald Carbon Handles, and the Old Trinity Blue handled ones. My favorite track is Hobby Action Raceway. Follow Spencer on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Steven Hartson

I enjoy RC cars, boating, jet skiing, and anything to do with racing. My 7PX is easily my favorite Futaba product, and I'm proudest of being the 2013 LFMAR 4WD World Champion. My favorite track is OCRC Raceway.

Tim DiPeri

My hobbies include aviation of the model variety, primarily helicopters, golfing, woodworking, restoring antique furniture, and I am a amateur surgeon (looking for volunteers!). I have a soft spot for dogs, Pugs in particular. I enjoy cooking - not cleaning - and my family. Once, long ago, I flew a model airplane from Long Island (New York) to Bridgeport (Connecticut) over open water; I did that again with a helicopter about 10 years later (the first and only to have done that to my knowledge). I did some protects for the film industry and the military and those were fun. I have a tough time deciding between preferred Futaba products, but would narrow it to 32MZ, CGY760, and HPS servos. My favorite flying field is IAC in Muncie, IN. Email Tim DiPeri at TimDiPeri@Caseco-inc.com and Caseco@Comcast.net

Will Berninger

I enjoy flying RC IMAC and Scale and it would be hard to choose which Futaba product is my favorite. Futaba servos are awesome, but so are the transmitters and support gear! I've won first place at Top Gun Pro Am Pro in 2017 and 2019. I am a licensed full-scale pilot and mechanic who owns a flight school and maintenance facility near Cincinnati, OH. I also manage the entire airport facility for the airport sponsors and have an Inspection Authorization license that allows me to return to service aircraft after major repairs. When not competing or flying model aircraft, I enjoy traveling with my wife and two dogs in our motor home. I grew up on a horse farm near Miamitown, OH and switched to model airplanes as a hobby at the age of nine. I have a couple vintage Toyota cars that are prized possessions. We purchased our Toyota Supra brand new in 1985 and it continues to be "absolute" to this day with approximately 54,000 original miles. My favorite flying field is the National Model Aviation flying site in Muncie, IN. Email Will Berninger at Will.Berninger@Gmail.com

AIR ADVOCATES

Annually, hobbyists and professionals that really stand out are requested to become Futaba Advocates. These pilots and drivers are meant to be Futaba’s boots on the ground. From hobby experts to world champions and everything in between, Futaba Advocates are a great resource for anyone looking to get into the hobby, improve their craft, or just to talk to about RC!
Our Futaba Air Advocates contain fixed wing RC aircraft and all rotary aircraft with most members specializing in more than one hobby! Find the best Advocate for your Futaba needs below.

Adam Picard

I am the proud father to an awesome future pilot and I am the husband to a very understanding wife. My proudest accomplishments are becoming a father and becoming a member of Team Futaba! I love flying IMAC and full size with my 18MZ, and I always seem to find myself starting new projects then forgetting about them because of flying! My favorite flying field is KW Flying Dutchman Field in St.Jacob's, Ontario.

Al Young

I have been into RC aircraft since 1965, motorcycles since 1970, and boating for my entire life. I have been in the hobby business since 1990 and currently own JTEC Exhaust Systems, Radiowave Aircraft, and Dalton Aviation. Along with my son, Kevin, we have designed and manufactured several successful IMAC aircraft. This includes models that won the 2017 Clover Creek, 2017 Tucson Shootout, 2018 IMAC Worlds held in Muncie, and 2019 TUS with the Dalton designs. One of my prize possessions is a 1977 BMW R75/7. It belonged to my father. We spent a lot of time riding together and taking motorcycle trips. In 1987 when he passed I inherited the bike. Both Kevin and my son-in law learned to ride on that bike, which I passed along to Kevin in 2018. To get away from the business, Kevin, MY son-in-law Miguel, myself and usually one of my very close friends would take a motorcycle trip or two each year to different places. For some reason it always' seemed we would end up at the Tail of the Dragon on the NC-TN boarder. 318 turns in 11 miles. Its sort of a motorcycle haven like Joe Nall is to RC. I enjoy restoration of cars and motorcycles, and have previously owned several original mini-coopers from the 1960's. Since they we not allowed to be imported after January of 1968, we would restore them and show them off. Currently I have a 1980 Kawasaki kz1000 Z1R D3 that is undergoing restoration. One of my favorite things to do is spend time with my family and grandson. Both Kevin and his family and my daughter and her family live a fair distance away so time spent with them is always to short. My primary hobby though will always be designing and building models. Sorry, but I have been involved in RC since 1965 so it has been a lifetime hobby! It passed onto my son and now my grandson at age of four is showing great interest. If I go to build, he comes with me and helps. We have been flying Futaba since 1990. I currently own Futaba's 18SZ, 12ZX, and 7UAP radios, as well as lots of receivers and servos. The R7014 receiver has to be one of the most versatile around for S.Bus. My favorite field is WSRC Mocksville, NC - our home flying field. In a radius of about 35 miles, we have five or more flying fields available. Email Al Young at JTEC@EarthLink.net and Sales@JTECRC.com Follow Al on Facebook, the JTEC Radiowave Facebook, the Dalton Aviation Facebook, and his son Kevin's Facebook.

Al Kretz

My hobbies include RC scale, horseback riding, and camping. I love my Futaba 18SZ transmitter, and my proudest accomplishment is attending three world championships representing United States, South Africa, and Poland twice. I am a fan of the Chicago Bears and the LA Dodgers, and I love being retired! My prized possessions are my wife and dog - I have a small family since my son passed at 40, but I love my two step-daughters and four grandchildren. I'm in good health and have great friends, and my favorite field is Coffee Airfoilers field in Tullahoma, TN.

Alex Dreiling

My hobbies of choice are flying scale aerobatics, scale warbirds, and scale helicopters with my 18MZ WC. One day, I want to build a Kitfox full-size plane and RV7. You'll usually see me with a bag of M&M's and my family - I'm married with three beautiful kids, and they usually all travel with me to events! My proudest accomplishment is Unlimited Champion for 2018 at the Tucson Aerobatic Shootout and being able to compete in the 2019 invitational! My favorite flying field is East Valley Aviators. Email Alex Dreiling at AlexDreiling@Gmail.com Follow Alex on Facebook.

Ben Batts

I enjoy flying RC planes especially with my Futaba 18SZ. Other hobbies include getting out to fish, going to car meets with my Focus RS, and I'm big into PC sim racing, project cars, Dirt 4, and Forza Motor Sports. My proudest accomplishment is winning first place at the 2010 Clover Creek Invitational Sportsman Class. My favorite field is Red Apple Flyers in Wenatchee, Washington. Email Ben Batts at BigBenBatts@Gmail.com

Blake Brown

My hobby of choice is giant-scale airplanes. Each year, I help host the 3D Bash in Kennett, Missouri which is growing more and more each year. It has grown to be one of the biggest 3D events in the mid-south! I do my best to help promote this hobby, traveling the mid-south to various events in states like AR, MO, KY, TN, LA, and TX. My favorite Futaba product is the 18SZ transmitter. I am a auto body painter by trade and my other hobbies include helping in the pits on a super late model dirt car when I'm not flying. My favorite sports teams are the Arkansas Razorbacks, the Dallas Cowboys, and the St. Louis Cardinals. I have been married to my wonderful wife Jamie for over 10 years and we have one daughter, Braylen. Braylen travels with me to events in the summer and I hope she will get into flying one day! My favorite field is Kennett RC Flyers in Kennett, Missouri. Follow Blake on Facebook.

Bob Krull

I enjoy building and flying scale aircraft, primarily military WWI and WWII. I also like building 1/32-scale aircraft and I collect die cast military aircraft from WWII. I compete in scale events when I can, and I'm proud to have been the WRAM Show Manager for it's last five years after being actively involved with the show for 30+ years. My Futaba 18SZ transmitter is my favorite product, I have interest in building a 1.5" scale Live Stream locomotive, and I follow all of our New York teams - Yankees, Mets, Jets, and Giants! My favorite field is Rhinebeck Aerodrome in Rhinebeck, NY. Email Bob Krull at RCFlier12570@Comcast.net Follow Bob on Facebook.

Brandon Reimschiissel

My hobbies of choice include 3D aerobatics and turbine jets, especially with my Futaba 18SZ and R7008SB receivers. I was able to help with disaster reconnaissance of earthquakes in Italy because of my remote-control airplane background. I played soccer all growing up and through high school. I still believe this is the greatest game on the planet! I lived in Costa Rica for 2 years, I loved the great people and everything the country has to offer especially the wildlife. If you are thinking about traveling there for vacation, let me know. I will make sure to point you in the right direction! My prized possessions are my wife and three kids! Next time you see us at an event make sure to come say hi and make yourself at home! My young kids and I have an awesome time making robots and costumes out of cardboard, and making peach cobbler is my specialty! My favorite field is St. George, Utah, because of the amazing background shots we get with our models. Email Brandon Reimschiissel at Brandon.Reimschiissel@Gmail.com

Brett Wickizer

I like to fly RC airplane precision aerobatics, also known as pattern. Although I currently use the 18SZ transmitter, I have loved every Futaba transmitter I've ever had. Picking a favorite would be impossible! My proudest accomplishment is that I won 11th place at the 2019 F3A World Championships in Calcinatello, Italy. I'm married to the woman of my dreams, a huge fan of Formula 1 racing (my personal hero is Ayrton Senna), and I'm a travel junkie and food-lover. Seriously, just ask the other world team members! I fly a Citation X for XOJet Aviation; when I'm not flying airplanes...I'm flying airplanes! Along with Bryan Hebert, I co-founded CK Aero. We sell unique competition air frames and accessories and have a blog full of great information for anyone trying to improve their flying. My favorite fields are Dixie R/C (near Baton Rouge, LA), the location of my first ever pattern contest, and the home field of my best friend and competition compadre Bryan Hebert. Email Brett Wickizer at FlyingTrumpet@Gmail.com

Caleb Turner

My favorite hobby is flying RC helicopters, especially with my Futaba CGY760 gyro. I love anything that goes fast: Mustang GT500, Focus RS, Corvette, etc. I enjoy riding my bike at fun flys, I play the piano and the cello, and my proudest accomplishment are my opportunities to fly for Futaba and XNova. Other hobbies include fishing and hunting, I took my first deer with a bow and arrow at age 10 (an eight-point buck). My favorite hamburger is Five Guys, at Cracker Barrel I always get chicken and dumplings with apple sauce, and my favorite breakfast is the meal cooked at the Spring Fling event in Fredericksburg. The field I enjoy flying at the most is Triple Tree in South Carolina and my favorite event is Spring Fling in Fredericksburg, VA. Follow Caleb on the Only Fine Helis Facebook.

Chris Nelle

I enjoy all types of fixed wing RC airplanes using my Futaba 14SG transmitter. I have served as an Event Manager and received a President's Award from my local RC Club. My non-RC hobby is dove hunting, and I am a small business owner (Aerial Options Photography). My favorite sports team is the Texas Longhorns, and my favorite field is Apache Pass.

Cleveland D. Coleman

I love flying RC helicopters with my Futaba CGY-760, and I truly enjoy helping people with the hobby. When I was 24, I was a body builder and won third place in my weight class. I've provided personal security for Michelle, Sasha, and Malia Obama, and I've ridden 205 mph on a sports bike! I used to have a pet iguana, I don't like watermelon, and my favorite field is the famous Ditch near Birmingham, AL. Email Cleveland Coleman at QRoadRunner96@Gmail.com

Cliff Hiatt

My hobbies include piloting F3C helicopters, sport 3D helicopters, SPA/classic pattern, and parkflyers. I'm proudest of my accomplishment winning the 1995/1996 F3C World Championship, and my favorite Futaba product is the CGY760 helicopter gyro. I'm a full-size fixed wing pilot, enjoy sports that involve shooting shotguns (skeet, sporting clay), and I was born in Chitose, Japan. My modeling hobby is to thank for my introduction to the girl I married as well as my career in the aerospace industry. I have flown Futaba radio control equipment exclusively since 1984, and my favorite field is wherever I'm flying at the time! Email Cliff Hiatt at F3Cliff10@Gmail.com

Dale Arvin

My hobby of choice is radio control planes, primarily scale. A few of my favorite accomplishments include: being a Team Futaba member, District 6 Associate VP, AMA leader member, AMA R/C Scale Contest Board Member, AMA Contest Director, and NASA Executive Board Member. My all-time favorite Futaba product is the 14MZ. Email Dale Arvin at DArvin8094@aol.com

Darin Peirce

I am married to my wife Darcie of 32 years, I have 3 kids who are all married, and our daughter and her husband gave us our first granddaughter in 2019! I am into guns and shooting sports and I like to play golf. I am a baseball fan and have loved the Boston Red Sox since I was five or six years old. A prized possession of mine (outside of my family and my home) is an HK MP5K submachine gun... and all my model airplanes, of course. I enjoy flying RC Pattern and Turbine Jets with my Futaba 18MZ. Several years ago, I helped start a firearm silencer manufacturing company which I have since sold my stake in but it has grown to become the largest silencer manufacturer in the U.S. Probably my most favorite recent accomplishment was my 4th place finish in the 2018 Red Flag Jet Aerobatic competition. This contest was an invitation only event with 15 foreign competitors and 15 U.S. competitors invited. To finish 4th in this field was a great accomplishment for me flying my big Havoc jet in the contest. My favorite field is Utah Valley Aeromodelers. Email Darin Peirce at DLPeirce8@iCloud.com Follow Darin on Facebook.

Dino DiGiorgio

I first took an interest in model aviation in 1976 at the age of 5. For a long time, I was limited to cleaning off the glow fuel on my father's models, but I managed to solo at the age of 8. Age 12 brought some new aircraft and new challenges. I flew pattern for a few years until I then discovered my true passion. I soon learned that Giant scale would become my modeling obsession. I purchased Meister Scale Models in 2004 and have spent the last 20 years growing the line of kits and accessories. I competed at Top Gun Scale competition from 1992 - 2019 with achieving 9 first place victories. I could not be more happy now that I am back with the radio system I grew up with.

Dean Stone

I enjoy pylon racing with my favorite Futaba radio, the 16SZ. I finished sixth Q500 at the 2018 NATS, and I have quite a few hobbies out side of RC. I build custom five-string banjos, I'm a fan of the Washington Nationals, and I enjoy spending time with my five grandchildren. I like fishing, hunting, flying RC, and music. My favorite field is the Muncie AMA Field. Email Dean Stone at DeanStone29@Gmail.com

Dean Copeland

I have numerous radio-controlled aircraft hobbies including, prop, jet, scale, and sport. My favorite Futaba product is my 18MZ transmitter, and my favorite accomplishment is being invited to Top Gun for the last 12 years and winning the craftsmanship award a few years ago. I am a fan of Huskers football and female volleyball. I love working on and maintaining my 1972 Triumph TR-6. I have one son, one grandson, and three great-grandchildren. Email Dean Copeland at DCopeland937@CenturyLink.net

Derek Koopowitz

I enjoy flying RC airplanes, especially F3A aerobatics. My trusty and reliable 18MZ radio is easily my favorite Futaba product. I have a few favorite accomplishments including NSRCA president from 2007-2010, organizing the 2011 F3A World Championships logistically, and being a judge at the 2015 F3P and F3A World Championships. I fly full-size and own a Piper Arrow 200. I have a wonderful and supportive wife, Jill, and the best son in the world! My favorite field is East Bay Radio Controllers. Email Derek Koopowitz at DerekKoopowitz@Gmail.com

Devin Hammond

I have an array of hobbies including RC helicopters, planes, and cars (drift and dirt). My favorite Futaba products are the 18SZ and CGY760, and my proudest accomplishment is winning second place at the 2015 NATS AMA in Sportsman Class. I am an Auburn fan, I enjoy fishing, and I'm a fan of drag racing stack racing team. I like mountain biking, sport-bike riding on and off track, and my favorite field is Huntsville's Heli Field. Email Devin Hammond at JLNumber3@AOL.com or DJH1987n7@Gmail.com Follow Devin on Instagram.

Devin McGrath

I enjoy flying giant-scale aerobatics, indoor F3P and F3P AM (Aeromusical), and F3K. My favorite Futaba product is a tie between the 18MZ radio and new HPS-A700 servo. I'm a three-time member of the US F3P team and won third place in the World Air Games Dubai in Aeromusical. I've traveled to Europe many times for RC and for work; I've visited Poland, France, Germany, Austria, and Italy. I am a New England Patriots fan, I'm engaged, and I like bike riding when I have the time. I typically ride 500+ miles per year on my bike, and I enjoy working on cars. Currently I'm restoring a 1982 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia camper- it will make a great RC event vehicle. My favorite field is Hasman Field located in Rochester, NY. Email Devin McGrath at DMcGrath009@Gmail.com

Dwight Shilling

I enjoy flying RC helicopters, especially with my Futaba CGY760 gyro. I'm proudest of being a part of the 1995 and 2009 World Helicopter gold-medal-finishing Teams. Email Dwight Shilling at DwightShilling@Yahoo.com

Eaton Bryce

My hobbies include RC helicopters and sail planes which I especially love with my newly acquired Futaba 32MZ. My proudest accomplishment is being able to compete in RC Scale Helicopters and RC Helicopter Aerobatics as well as being able to help anyone that's interested in RC helicopters. I am an avid Deep House Music DJ - I still play lots of wax. In my opinion, the New York Yankees are the only team that matters in the baseball world. I am a classic video game aficionado (Centipede, Zaxxon, Asteroids), a huge fan of AMC's The Walking Dead, and a saltwater and freshwater fishing enthusiast. My favorite field is Seaview Rotary Wings RC Helicopter Field in Brooklyn, NY. Email Eaton Bryce at FastRCHeli@AOL.com Follow Eaton on the Seaview Rotary Wings RC Flying Club Facebook and the CP Helis Facebook.

Evan Quiros

My hobby of choice is flying RC giant-scale warbirds with my favorite Futaba products, the 18MZ transmitter and BLS172 servos. I'm proudest of my accomplishment involving building and flying six quarter-scale Luftwaffe fighters. I'm also a full-scale A&P mechanic and a long-distance rifle shooter, and my favorite flying field is Huber Air. Email Evan Quiros at EvosHangar@SatX.rr.com

Frank Kelley

I am a retired Air Force Vietnam veteran of 21 years and a retired commercial pilot of 23 years. I married my High School Sweetheart 57 years ago and we are STILL married! I enjoy target shooting as family fun, my favorite sports team is the KC Chiefs (I went to college in Kansas City), and I am also a NASCAR fan. My hobby is radio-controlled model aircraft using my Futaba 18SZ and 14SG. I'm also still very much using my trusty, 10+ year old 14MZ! My favorite accomplishment in the hobby is making the finals at the Pattern Nationals many years ago, earning NSRC District 10 FAI Champion one year, and being invited to Team Futaba in 1994. My favorite field is Willie McCool Model Airpark, North Las Vegas, NV. Email Frank Kelley at FJKelley@Cox.net

Greg Poppel

I love flying RC planes with my Futaba 18MZ in events all over the US. I enjoy ziplining and cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes. My favorite fields are Columbus Big Birds and Joe Nall. Email Greg Poppel at AirWild1@Yahoo.com Follow Greg on Facebook.

Helmut Schmitter

My hobbies include flying RC scale and RC gliders. Of my accomplishments, competing in the 2018 and 2019 Top Gun Scale Competitions is my favorite. The Futaba 18MZ radio and S9156/S9157 servos are my favorite Futaba products. My favorite fields are Flying Tigers Hamilton and Stoney Creek Hawks.

Ivan Kristensen

Jason Neves

My hobbies of choice include scale airplanes and aerobatics, pattern, and racing quads. My two favorite Futaba products are the 18MZ WC radio and R7014 receiver. I competed in the 2016 and 2019 Scale Masters Championship and flew at the Tucson Aerobatic Shootout; I consider them my proudest accomplishments. I am married to a wonderful woman named Gina who supports me in this great hobby. I have four children, two boys and two girls, and four corgi dogs. I love hockey and football - my teams are the Coyotes and the Cardinals. My two songs love to shoot trap, so when I'm not flying, we are at the range. My favorite field is my home field, East Valley Aviators, though the AMA Field is great too!

Jeff Fassbinder

I enjoy flying RC helicopters, airplanes, jets...almost anything that I can fly! I love my Futaba 18SZ radio and being a part of the radio control industry is my favorite accomplishment. I put my family first, enjoy the outdoors and seeing America while camping, and like to relax while underwater snorkeling. I have a son and daughter who enjoy baseball and swimming. My favorite field is a tie between Prado Airfield and AMA in Muncie. Follow Jeff on Facebook.

Jerry Smith

I am a fixed wing RC aircraft enthusiast who also enjoys boating and golfing. My favorite Futaba product is the 18SZ, and I am a nine-time NCFAA competition fun fly participant. My favorite track is RDRC.

Joe Cutright

My hobbies involve flying IMAC, pattern, and scale with my Futaba 18SZ. Running the Clover Creek Invitational for three years is one of my favorite accomplishments. I am an avid mountain biker who enjoys fishing, spending time at the beach, last-minute getaways, and spending time with my two sons. My favorite field is Clover Creek Aerodrome in TN. Email Joe Cutright at Joe.Cutright@Gmail.com

Joe 'Mean Joe V' Vermillion

I enjoy flying remote-controlled airplanes and was the 2019 Bob Lirette Award recipient. My favorite Futaba product is the 18SZ transmitter, though I fly pretty bare-bones with the setup. I like to spend time with my family, in my shop working on projects, or cheering on USMC. I am a Health and Safety Trainer with General Motors and I have a degree in Photography and Videography. My favorite field is Capital Area Radio Drones Squadron Field. Email Joe 'Mean Joe V' Vermillion at TheTeam@BalsaUSA.com

John Wolfe

I enjoy flying RC pattern, scale aerobatics, and helicopters with my Futaba 18MZ transmitter. In my time in the hobby, my proudest accomplishments are helping someone new in the hobby and seeing the light turn on, qualifying and competing in the 2018 IMAC World Championships, and earning 2019 Advanced AMA Pattern National Champion. I enjoy competitive pistol/rifle shooting and reloading, camping, and spending time with friends. I am a fan of Atlanta Braves baseball and the University of Georgia Bulldogs football. I have been married over 36 years to my lovely wife Sharon and have two wonderful sons (Chris and Brian) and two grandchildren (Chloe and Lennon) who are my prized possessions. My favorite flying field is CMJ Hobbies Flying Field in Roberta, GA. Email John Wolfe at WolfeJohnE@Cox.net

John Drake

I have been flying RC planes for 48 years and I'm a big sports fan - I enjoy hockey and football. My favorite sports teams are Michigan football and the Detroit Red Wings hockey team, and my favorite Futaba product is the 18MZ transmitter. I started and have owned Ohio Model Products for over 18 years and am very proud of it! I've been married to my wife Patricia for over 48 years, we have four grown kids. I spent 20 years in the Air Force and have over 1500 hours flying F-4s. I started financial planning business after retiring from the Air Force and worked in that business for 17 years. My favorite fields are Xenia RC Field and Triple Tree in Woodruff, SC. Email John Drake at JRDrake9@Outlook.com Follow John on Facebook.

John Burdin

I am a full-scale pilot that loves model aviation and golf. My favorite Futaba products are the 18SZ and their receivers and servos. I have a daughter and two great grandchildren, I'm a fan of the Florida Gators, and my proudest accomplishments include competing in my earlier years of RC aviation, promoting events for broad sections of the hobby, and helping people better understand and use their Futaba products. My favorite field is Imperial RC Club in Mulberry, Florida. Email John Burdin at JohnWBurdin@Gmail.com Follow John on Facebook.

Jorge Escalona

I enjoy designing, building, and flying RC scale jets. My favorite Futaba product is the 18MZ radio with it's S.Bus protocols. I won first place in 2019 Pro Sport Jets Class, achieving my proudest accomplishment. I was born in Cuba, raised in Puerto Rico and the states. I lived in Europe and Latin America while working in the telecom industry. I love photography and enjoy working with my wife Karen writing a family book. I am a family man with five kids - none of them are into RC, but hopefully my grand kids will be! I participated as assistant general manager of the Puerto Rico National Basketball Team in 1991 Pan American Games and wining gold at the 1992 Atlanta Olympics. My favorite field is Paradise Field in Lakeland, FL, the site of Top Gun. Email Jorge Escalona at JLEscalona@ATT.net

Kasey Campbell

I enjoy flying RC jets, helicopters, 3D airplanes with my Futaba favorites, the 32MZ transmitter , HPS-A700 servos, and CGY760. I am a private pilot, a deputy chief for the volunteer fire department, and I occasionally help as a dive master scuba diving. I am the drone pilot for a local sheriff's office for search and rescue operations, and I an ATV enthusiast that loves to ride 4-wheelers and side-by-sides. My best accomplishment in the hobby is when I started flying with the Fredericksburg area club back when I was in middle school. We were flying out of a parking lot off of a dead-end road, but I was only able to fly couple times a year. My dad told me and one of our friends to take a spot on our farm and mow the field down so we could start flying on the farm. Since then, the Fredericksburg Area RC Club has been thriving on our family farm now with 150+ members, two full runways, and seven sanctioned events per year (some with 100+ pilots). Email Kasey Campbell at Yesak007@Gmail.com

Kevin Feil

I enjoy having the opportunity to meet and introduce people to this amazing hobby through my sponsorships alongside my fellow teammates. I am going on my fourth year being on Team Futaba, and I appreciate the opportunities to create and cultivate life-changing experiences within the hobby. Not only do we get to establish a common point of interest among them, but we play a role in bringing families closer together. Being able to pay it forward alongside an army of fellow enthusiasts is not only an accomplishment I share with others, it's an ongoing mission. I have been fortunate enough to work with Milos Benadik, owner and engineer of Night Magic Blades, over the years. Seeing Nick Maxwell win 2013 XFC Night Competition on a set of my prototype color NMBs and collaborating as part of the development team for the RGB NMBs was an amazing experience. I fly RC Turbine/Nitro/Electric Helicopters and Turbine Jets and my favorite Futaba products are the CGY-760, 18SZ, and my new 32MZ. I learned to fly helicopters and perform 3D maneuvers before I ever learned to fly fixed wing, and I witnessed my wife perform an auto on my flight simulator (yes, I was a little jealous). My favorite field is Triple Tree Aerodrome, SC. Email Kevin Feil at HWood3160@Yahoo.com Follow Kevin on Facebook.

Laddy McMurry

I like to pilot electric and nitro helicopters, places, and drive RC cars. My favorite Futaba products are the 16SZ radio and the CGY760 gyro. Being on Team Futaba is easily my favorite accomplishment! I'm an avid F1 fan, as well as any car racing series. I built IndyCar engines for 30 years and motors for Bobby Rahal, Mario Andretti, and AJ Foyt. I worked at Chaparral Cars for three years and helped build Cosworth DFX engines. I was on the team that won the only IndyCar Triple Crown Championship in 1987 with Al Unser Sr. I have been married 38 years and have two kids and four grand kids. My favorite field is Abilene RC Society.

Louis Matustik

I enjoy flying IMAC and AMA Pattern precision aerobatics with my Futaba 12Z transmitter. My favorite accomplishment is earning 2019 IMAC North Central Region Unlimited Class Champion. I am retired and enjoy traveling, learning, playing golf and ice hockey, and I am the pilot of the NHL Columbus Blue Jackets RC Blimp. My favorite field is the AMA Muncie International Modelling Center. Email Louis Matustik at LAM3Rd@Yahoo.com

Lyndel Roe

My hobbies include all forms of model aviation, cycling, and skateboarding. Although I think all Futaba products are great, I really love my BLS177 servos! My favorite accomplishment is placing in the top ten at IMAC Nationals in the Unlimited class. I have two cats, Flyer and Ace, and I was a professional skateboarder in the 1980s. I ride my bicycle at least 100 miles a week and my favorite shoes are checkerboard Vans. I love the backdrop of the mountains and desert at the Tucson International Modelplex Park. Email Lyndel Roe at LyndelRoe@Yahoo.com

Mark Radcliff

My hobbies include model aviation, full-scale aviation, die case and plastic model cars/airplanes, playing trumpet, singing, and directing church choir. I love my Futaba 14MZ and I'm proudest of representing the USA on four F3A aerobatic teams between 1975 and 1981. We won first place at those championships, and I individually won third place in the 1979 South Africa World Championships. I'm a Pittsburgh Steelers and WVU fan, I'm proud to be married to Charmel for over 39 years, and I have two lovely daughters. My favorite field is Wing Nutz flying field in St. Marys, WV. Email Mark Radcliff at MRadcliff@SuddenLink.net Follow Mark on Facebook.

Mark Parker

I enjoy flying RC pylon (422, 426, EF-1) and indoor electric. My favorite Futaba product is my 16SZ, and the accomplishment I'm proudest of is winning 422 National Champion, first place 2016 EF-1 Nationals Champion and second place in 426. I am a grandfather, have been married to my wife Sandy for over 40 years, and like to tournament bass fish. I enjoy turkey, pheasant, and dove hunting as well as whitetail bow hunting, and I am a private pilot. My favorite flying field is Nationals Flying Site in Muncie, IN. Email Mark Parker at Mark.Parker58@Outlook.com

Matt Kloss

My favorite Futaba product is the 18SZ transmitter, which I enjoy flying my RC airplanes with. An accomplishment I am the proudest of is earning my private pilot certificate in 2011. I actively compete in various disciplines of archery and I am an avid hunter. I really enjoy air-cooled automotive engines and currently have a 1972 Fiberglass Manx Dune buggy powered by a 1835cc VW engine. The best (and my favorite) field to fly is actually the event Joe Nall in Woodruff, South Carolina.

Michael Fearing

My favorite hobby is building uncommon/unseen jets and giant-scale war birds. The entire Futaba S.Bus System is amazing for this and the HPS-A700 servo has really let me upscale my models with more peace of mind. Additionally, I enjoy using the FASSTest 18SZ Air Telemetry Radio because it has the ability to program S.Bus servos directly, easy programing, and trustworthy connections. My favorite accomplishments are some of my one-off projects like completing 160 in C130, the 145 in F7F Tiger cat with 2 ZDZ 97cc singles I'm working on, and the all wood 118 in long F100 Saber jet in progress. I love old school Mopars; I've owned a 1968 Charger since I was 19-years-old (it took 10 years to restore). I'm looking to restore an old 1954 Panel Van to make a amazing Airplane Toy Hauler. My favorite field/event is Central Iowa Big Bird and Scale Fly-in, an amazing RC jet, giant-scale RC warbirds, full-scale air show where you can fly at the original Byron Air field! Email Michael Fearing at Mikes68Charger@Yahoo.com Follow Michael on Facebook.

Mike Goza

My hobbies of choice are F3C and 3D helicopters, which I enjoy with my Futaba 32MZ, CGY760, and HPS-HC700 servos. I was part of Team USA representing at the 2019 F3C Helicopter World Championships in Germany. I helped design Robonaut which has flown on the International Space Station, and I've flown in NASA's Zero G aircraft. Sports cars are the only cars...well almost. I sometimes need bigger cars for carrying helicopters! My favorite field is Texas City RC Club.

Mike Fox

Anything RC is cool, but I really enjoy RC soaring. I'm still working on learning all the different Futaba products that are available, but I really enjoy the 18SZ and 16SZ transmitters. I won third place at the World Soaring Championships and beat some tough competitors at the Nationals! I'm working on restoring a '67 Camaro which is a very slow project, but I have plenty of other hobbies to keep me busy. I like going for motorcycle rides, woodworking, home remodeling, and traveling with my wife. There is a local field we use for competing - Muscatine Iowa Field. It is out in the country and has some character with a small clubhouse and a wood burning stove. The local guys are a really fun group!

Mike Zellars

I enjoy flying RC airplanes, turbine jets, and helicopters. My Futaba 18SZ is my favorite radio, and I've won multiple awards for scale RC aircraft I've built! I'm the proud father of two grown children and have a wife of 31+ years - my family is my prized possession. Since both kids went to University of Central Florida, I am a big fan of their football team! My favorite field is Imperial RC. Email Mike Zellars at MSZellars@acelkd.com.

Mike Stroup

My hobbies include RC1 airplanes, helicopters, sailplanes...everything that flies! My favorite Futaba products include the 18MZ, S9177SV, WTR-7, 9ZAP, and pitot telemetry. I have been practicing Engineering for 20+ years. The predator series of UAV have my fingerprints all over'em and I recently started doing aerial photography with drones! I've been doing FPV fixed wing for several years, and my favorite accomplishments include teaching my sons to fly RC, 2nd place International Slope Race in 1986 (with the flu)! CD'ing Central Valley 3D Festivals for several years, flying a demo at the Edwards Airshow several years back, and being a member of Team Futaba! I have five children and love them and my wife very much. My favorite fields are Bennett Air Field in Las Vegas, Rabbit Dry Lake in CA, and Victor Valley RC Flyers Field in CA. Email Mike Stroup at Stroup@GA.com

Neil Lagstrom

My favorite hobbies include RC helicopters, gliders, and airplanes using my favorite Futaba products, the 8FG and CGY750. I'm a fan of the rock band RUSH, love exploring Alaska back country via side-by-side and snowmobile, and my favorite NASCAR driver is #48 Jimmie Johnson. My love of aviation started with my dad and u-control airplanes, and now I'm an aircraft mechanic working at Alaska's largest regional airline. My proudest accomplishment is flying with team members and sharing our experience, and my favorite flying field is AMA in Muncie, IN.

Patrick Ash

I fly giant-scale warbirds and vintage flow, both of which I enjoy piloting with my Futaba 16SZ transmitter. I'm proud to have had my 2019 Competition Airplane (FW 190A) featured on the front cover of MRA "Modele Reduit Davion", a french magazine for RC aircraft. I am an A&P mechanic, I work for Sikorsky Aircraft Corp Flight Test MX MGR specializing in Blackhawk helicopters, and I'm an avid bass fisherman. I am married with one daughter and I am a KY Wildcats fan. My favorite field is Mac Hodges Flying Field in Andersonville, FL. Email Patrick Ash at Patrick.Ash18@Gmail.com

Raiko Potter

My hobbies include flying pattern, helicopters, IMAC, scale, and jets; my passion is anything that flies! My all-time favorite radio is the 18MZ...or it was until the 32MZ came out. I presently own the 14SG and 16SZ and will be adding the 18MZ WC and the 32MZ. I have been using Futaba ever since 1983 and the products are still the Top Shelf of the RC radio equipment industry. Most of my major accomplishments come from my creativity with Raiko Dzigns. As a artist and creator in the RC Industry, I feel fortunate to get to see satisfied customers flying something that I created. My youngest son is my most recent favorite accomplishment because I now have a son that can carry on the tradition of RC (using Futaba of course) and I look forward to guiding him for years to come. I am a composite technician with over 25 years of experience. I love commercial airline jets; you could say live, eat, and sleep aviation. I am from Cincinnati, Ohio and love my Bengals (even though the team is not that good)! I also love Alabama football. Gymnastics and extreme sports like motocross catch my interest as well. I sometimes watch golf on the weekends - the concentration level is so intense! I am married to a beautiful woman named Tiffany and she has been a nurse for 16+ years. Along with my son, I have two older daughters. My prized possessions are my faith and family. I will have to add that my passion for what I believe in is also a treasured possession because for as long as I have been fortunate to have such a great hobby, my equipment has been through it all. Thanks Futaba! My favorite track/field are pole vaulting, high jump, and long jump!

Ray Morton

I enjoy flying F3A and IMAC with either my Futaba 18MZ or 32MZ and my Futaba HPS-A700 servos. My proudest accomplishment is being the USA Team Manager for the 2018 IMAC World Championships. I love to dance with my wife (country, swing, Latin, ballroom, etc.), and I love to fly full-size helicopters. I'm an award winning faceter (gemstones), and my favorite field is Flying Cardinals of Northern Kentucky. Email Ray Morton at JRMMorton@Zoomtown.com

Richard Barch

Rick Byrd

I enjoy any hobbies that involve flying. My main focus is F3A for the coming year, but really I enjoy anything that has to do with aerobatics. I do like to shoot touch-and-goes from time to time! The feel of the Futaba 18MZ radio is priceless in my opinion. I have several favorite accomplishments including: Tournament of Champions competitor, making the USA IMAC Unlimited Team twice, two time National Champion in pattern, and of course 30+ years as a Team Futaba Member. I have three children: Hayden, Alice, and Grace. I've been married 18+ years to my wife Kimberly. Hayden enjoys baseball and online gaming while Alice and Grace enjoy softball, cheer, and volleyball. Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys are my favorite sports teams. They both have seen better days. I've spent 18+ years as a Honda Master Technician because I enjoy working on cars. 17 of those years I worked with my family at the same dealership! I enjoy working on my '65 Malibu SS. I have a 402 big block Chevy with a Muncie 4 speed behind it. It's a constant work in process, but I'm proud that my dad and I have done all the work to the car. I enjoy watching NHRA drag racing, and my favorite field is Clover Creek. That place is just so peaceful! Email Rick Byrd at RKByrd@SBCGlobal.net

Robert "Full" Montee

My hobby of choice is RC helicopters, but I also enjoy wooden and metal puzzles. The Futaba 18SZ transmitter, HPS-HC700 servo, and CGY-760 gyro are tied as my favorite product. My favorite accomplishment has been competing within the AMA/FAI helicopter classes. Competition has taught me so much about RC helicopters and been a great way to improve all skills within the hobby. I served in the United States Marine Corps from 1998 - 2005. I started and host with friends the TellARotor RC Podcast where we discuss technical topics on R/C helicopters monthly. While serving in the USMC, I raced Cross Country Mountain Bikes as part of the Quantico MTB Team. I married my high school sweetheart in Joshua Tree, California in 1999, and I have helped Santa Claus visit residents in my county with the Spotsylvania Volunteer Fire Department. If you are interested in Futaba radio setup, I have made some videos answering common questions brought to me by Futaba users and friends. I regularly fly at Fredericksburg Area RC Club and thoroughly enjoy traveling the East Coast flying at great fields like Triple Tree Aerodrome and Triple Creek RC. Email Robert "Full" Montee at MonteeRM@Hotmail.com Follow Full Montee on Facebook and YouTube.

Ron Barr

My hobbies include pattern aerobatics which I have had the honor to compete in at the National Championships for the past 20 years. My favorite Futaba product is my 18MZ radio, and my proudest accomplishment is earning NSRCA District 6 Master's Class Champion multiple times. I like to drive and restore vintage muscle cars, I have a 1969 Shelby GT500 that I have owned for 35 years. The Oklahoma Sooners are my favorite team since they are also my alma mater. I spend an inordinate amount of time fishing for bass and catfish with my three grandsons. I have read over 300 books of all types since I retired in 2013, and my favorite field is Jetero RC Club.

Rusty Fried

I fly pattern, IMAC, and scale RC airplanes who has had Futaba sponsorship since 1989 helping countless individuals from beginners setting up aircraft for the first time to very complex scale aircraft. I am a sober member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 40+ years, owned a Marine business with many satisfied customers for 40+ years, and competed in 31 US Nationals in CL Stunt, Navy Carrier and RC Precision Aerobatics. In addition to that, I finished in multiple first place finishes and multiple Top Five finishes, and I competed at the Tucson Shootout and Clover Creek in IMAC. Collectively, those are all accomplishments I am very proud of. I enjoy following the local Arizona professional sports teams such as the Arizona Cardinals, Phoenix Suns, and Diamond Backs. I enjoy target shooting (both indoor and tactical), and have been happily married for 39+ years. I am a full-scale pilot that, at one time, held an ATP certificate. I competed in IAC events in a Pitts S2B and Super Decathlon, restored a Super Decathlon and Cessna 182, and owned five other aircraft including a Pitts S2B.

Ryan Gonsoulin

My hobbies include RC (IMAC, Pattern, &F3K - Discus Launch Gliders), fishing, and spending time with my family. My favorite Futaba product is the 12FG, and I've been flying Futaba since day one (over 33 years ago). I'm proudest of my 2007 NATS & Tucson Shootout Championship in Advanced IMAC. I love motorsports, especially IndyCar and Formula 1, I am a mechanical engineer, and I think offset mixes are underrated! My favorite field is AMA in Muncie, IN.

Ryan Haldenwanger

I enjoy flying scale and sport turbine jets, especially with my Futaba 18MZ transmitter. My proudest accomplishment was winning my class at the first Top Gun Invitational I attended in 2009. I purchased my first RC airplane when I was 12 years old with money I saved from delivering newspapers - I've been flying Futaba ever since...35 years later! I am originally from central MN and enjoy motocross trail riding in the Rockies. I have attended two RC events internationally this past year and plan on more in the future, so far Germany is my favorite international destination. My favorite field is Fond du Lac club field in Fond du Lac, WI. Email Ryan Haldenwanger at RTHalden@MSN.com

Scott McHarg

I'm an absolute aviation nut. Even all of my HotWheels had wings instead of supercharged motors and wheels. I'm a real pilot flying out of KCLL and beginning work on my Instrument rating. I'm also a certificated Part 107 pilot and do a lot in the field of instruction for Texas A&M and TEEX as a WAGE Instructor for their UAS Program that I wrote the curriculum for. My hobbies of choice are F3A and, recently, F3S (Jet Precision Aerobatics). I adore my 18SZ. The features built into the model are amazing and exactly what most could ever need and/or want. The price is very affordable for such a complex radio that meets all expectations. When I came back to College Station, Texas A&M contacted me and asked me to become their sUAS/UAV pilot for all the Colleges at the University. I have converted them all off other brands and on to Futaba including a class that I now teach, AERO402, which consists of up to 6 teams per semester where they build and then fly their CAPSTONE Senior Design project. In that class, alone, we now have 6 Futaba 10J radios, a 12MZ, and several 8-channel radios. Not to mention a ton of different Futaba servos and transmitters. If nothing else, I'm incredibly honored to champion Futaba at Texas A&M. I'm a motorcycle enthusiast. My wife and I currently have 3 motorcycles including a V4-engine Aprilia Italian race bike. The sound is very unique and loud. I love them Dallas Cowboys. Through thick and thin, I will always be a fan. I enjoy spending time with my family - we are a party of 6. We have three boys and one girl. Our daughter, Anna, is working on her PhD in Psychology and looking to be a clinical psychologist. We're looking forward to her graduating and starting her practice so that she can buy us our 20 acres and I can build a runway! I was the first pilot to ever fly a sUAS in the National Airspace System (NAS) with an ADS-B Out unit on-board. I was tracked by radar at the KCLL tower and the event was a success to help find better ways to integrate sUAS into the NAS. My home field is Brazos Valley R/C Modelers. While we are a smaller field, we get many visitors that want to come to the area. It's a great place to be in a position to share the Futaba experience. Email Scott McHarg at SCMcHarg@Gmail.com Follow Scott on Instagram.

Shailesh Patel

I enjoy RC scale jets, aerobatic, and scale warbirds with my Futaba 18MZ transmitter. My favorite accomplishment is scratch building my F-86 in 2000 which was one of the largest jets in the world at the time. I've been flying RC for over 40 years, enjoy auto racing like NASCAR and Indy car, and my scale aircraft have been on the covers of over 20 magazines. My son started flying by taxiing my jets back after each landing and running them around like his RC race cars when he was nine, and I fly Mode 1 which is getting to be more unique in the US. My favorite field is my home field in Samoa, CA. It used to be a navy blimp base in the early 1940s. Email Shailesh Patel at Nil24@SBCGlobal.net

Stephen Hamilton

I enjoy flying (manned/unmanned), camping, fishing, and surfing. My favorite Futaba product is the 32MZ radio, and I'm proud to have won the 2006 IMAC NATS Bennett Cup. I was born in Florida, so I'm a fan of the Dolphins, Heat, and Rays. I love to laugh and enjoy new challenges, and I welcomed my first child in 2019! My favorite track is Bear Mountain in Bakersfield, CA. Email Stephen Hamilton at FSHamilton.Stephen@Gmail.com Follow Stephen on Facebook and Instagram.

Tim Tripoli

I enjoy flying RC helicopters and airplanes, as well as hunting and fishing. The Futaba CGY760 is easily my favorite product. My proudest accomplishment and most prized possession is my family and the time I get to spend with them. Living in different parts of the country, we don't get to get together as often as it use to, so it means a lot when we get to see everyone. I have four kids, six grandchildren, and three puppy dogs! I gave up rooting for sports teams, deciding instead to follow players and cheer for them. I no long have an emotional involvement in wins or loses, but maybe some day I will cheer for the Steelers again. Once a week, we get together with friends for a night of crafting and woodworking - I always look forward to it. My favorite flying site is Triple Tree Aerodrome.

Todd Blose

Tom Easterday

Ty Lyman

I enjoy flying giant-scale, IMAC, and Pattern RC airplanes - especially with my Futaba 18MZWC! I'm a proud stay-at-home dad to a couple of awesome kids, a better-than-average hacker on links, and a pretty decent plane builder. I'm proudest of my representing Team USA at the 2018 IMAC World Championships, being a 2-time Tucson Aerobatic Shootout Invitation pilot, and being a 2-time Clover Creek Invitational pilot. It's difficult to choose a favorite field, however, Clover Creek Aerodrome is a beautiful flying sight and a very special place that all RC enthusiasts should visit at least once. Email Ty Lyman at TLyman3@Gmail.com Follow Ty on Facebook and the Summit Aerosports Facebook.

Will Gross

I enjoy flying RC airplanes - Pattern and 3D - with Futaba S.Bus and BLS servos! In addition, I love the Futaba 18MZ, 18SZ, and 32MZ transmitters. Outside of flying RC airplanes, I am the Director of Engineering of a Telecommunications Company, I am in the process of obtaining my black belt in Kemp Karate, and I have an amazing wife and two sons. I am a dog lover, Oilers (hockey) and Patriots (football) sports fan, and fisherman. My favorite accomplishments include 4th place at the Canadian Nationals and Team Trials in FAI, 1st alternate pilot for the Canadian F3A Team that represented Canada at the F3A World Championships in Switzerland 2015, 1st Place Precision Aerobatics at the Canadian Nationals in Advanced 2012, 1st Place Masters in the F3A Western Canadian Pattern Championship,1st & 3rd Place in FAI in the Western Canadian Pattern Championships in Alberta Canada 2013 & 2014, and 4th Place (1st alternate) FAI Canadian Nationals and Team Trials 2018. My favorite field is Central Alberta Radio Fun Fliers (CARFF).

Nob Muraki

I fly helicopters F3C, IMAC, and EDF planes. My favorite Futaba product is a tie between the 32MZ radio, HPS-H700 servo, and HPS-A700 servo. I enjoy watching NASCAR and F1 races, am a fan of the Atlanta Braves, and my favorite accomplishments are winning second place in F3C class US 2018 NATS and winning third place at the 2017 US F3C Team Trial. My favorite field is Triple Creek RC in Riverview, FL. Email Nob Muraki at YMuraki@Hotmail.com Follow Nob on Facebook.

Team Futaba Surface

Annually, hobbyists and professionals that really stand out are requested to become Futaba Advocates. These pilots and drivers are meant to be Futaba’s boots on the ground. From hobby experts to world champions and everything in between, Futaba Advocates are a great resource for anyone looking to get into the hobby, improve their craft, or just to talk to about RC!
Our Futaba Surface Advocates cover RC craft on the ground and the water, though not exclusively! Boats, buggies, truggies, drifting…we’ve got a little something for everyone. Find the best Advocate for your Futaba needs below.

Brian 'Bogi' Givens

Outside of driving RC, I enjoy BMX, basketball, and snowboarding. My favorite Futaba product is the 7PX transmitter, and I'm proudest of accomplishing third in 40+ at RCGP and 14th overall in RC2. I play in a garage band, raced BMX professionally, and I play in a couple of basketball leagues. My favorite track is The Yard RC. Email Brian 'Bogi' Givens at VolumeBogi@Yahoo.com Follow Bogi on Facebook and Instagram.

Casey Blasczyk

RC Cars are my prized possession and I'm very competitive! My proudest accomplishment was when I TQ'd and won the Horizon Championship for my class in 2015. I have two boys that keep me busy and I love very much. My other hobbies include basketball, football (Go Packers!), Motocross, and playing golf. My favorite Futaba product is my 7PX, and my favorite track is Trackside Hobby and Raceway in Milwaukee, WI. Email Casey Blasczyk at GoFisty@Gmail.com

Chris Cristo

I enjoy driving 1/10-scale electric off-road. Outside of RC, I enjoy designing and 3D printing various things...though its mostly RC car pieces! My absolutely favorite Futaba product is the 7PX Limited Edition for its comfort, features, and great looks. The accomplishment I'm proudest of is TQ'ing and winning every class I entered at the JConcepts NE Championship. I'm married and have two children (a boy and a girl), and I own a 1978 Mini Cooper that I love to drive when the weather is nice. Unfortunately, the weather isn't always nice in New England. I love all kinds of racing vehicles - if it has a big engine and makes a lot of noise, I'm a fan. If I wasn't into RC, I'd probably spend my spare time 3D printing robots...but since I am into RC, I just wish I didn't have to work so I could do RC stuff all day. My favorite track is Hobby Action in Chandler, AZ.

Curtis Maglinger

I enjoy driving radio-controlled boats and radio-controlled cars; my favorite Futaba products are the 7PX radio and FP-T2F box radio. My proudest accomplishment is being able to race boats and cars with my father for 35+ years, my brother for 25+ Years, and my daughter for 6+ years. RC is definitely a family sport; I've enjoyed building life long friendships from fellow racers across the world for over 35 years. I'm blessed to have a wonderful and supporting wife and daughter that enjoy the friendships in this hobby. Of course, being from Kentucky, I love Wildcats basketball. I love challenges and helping others enjoy our sport, and I've been working on our family business since I was 12-years-old. My great-grandfather was a Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher and helped with the 1925 World Series! My favorite lake is in Evansville, IN, and my favorite track is in St. Louis, MO. Email Curtis Malinger at Curtis@CustomAudioVideoVideo.com Follow Curtis on his website. Follow Curtis on his website Maglinger Racing

Edwin Hartman

I enjoy off-roach RC racing with my Futaba 7PX. I have so many accomplishments that I am proud of! I helped build up racing facilities, started and ran two different off-road series, and spent a lot of time volunteering to build up the best RC facility in the nation (Thornhill Racing Circuit). I won a few races here and there, but I am more proud of the group of people that I know and that I can call my RC family. Another accomplishment is that I was a regional team manager for Tekno RC for several years until our family grew and time was limited. I was born and raised in the Netherlands and, after living in the USA for almost 20 years, finally became a citizen! My favorite sports to watch are supercross/motocross and Formula One. I have a great family consisting of a beautiful wife, a smart and funny stepdaughter, and one strong-willed "mini-me"! I have been working in the healthcare IT industry for 15+ years, and I am always busy keeping my mind busy designing and developing different types of products for RC, but also many things outside of RC. My mind works best when challenged, so I keep doing that. My favorite track is Thornhill Racing Circuit.

Jake Wright

I am an Engineer and Machinist for a large University. I get a lot of interesting looks when I am rewiring or modifying a competition truck in the shop during my lunch break...but I love rock crawling, rock racing, and my (amazing) Futaba 7PX! I am a huge motorsports fan, in all of its forms. I have attended every single one of the King of the Hammers races, and even raced (quite unsuccessfully) in 2017. I have a passion for music. I have played guitar since I was 13 and have performed in several classical ensembles and technical metal bands. I am currently training to run my first marathon. I fell in love with distance running while training for the Fix and the Altra Ultra races, and have gone from someone who couldn't run a mile in 2016 to running over 500 miles a year in training. My favorite accomplishments are winning 2016 USRCCA Worlds Comp Crawling Champion, Recon "The Fix" 12 hour solo champion twice, and Axialfest Altra Ultra 5k three times. My favorite tracks are Horsemen's Center in Apple Valley, CA and Pioneer Park in St. George, Utah.

Jason Jackson

I enjoy RC racing, online simulated racing, hunting, and working on full-size race cars. The Futaba 7PX Limited Edition is my absolutely favorite, and I'm proud to have won several A Mains at big races over the years. I'm married, helped design and build our home, and am a fan of Stewart Hass NASCAR racing. My favorite track is Fastlane Hobbies in Kansas City,MO. Email Jason Jackson at 86Jake@ATT.net

Jeff Piske

My hobbies include 1/10-scale and 1/8-scale off-road. Easily, my favorite Futaba product is my beautiful Limited Edition 7PX, and I'm proud to have TQ'd and won my class at the ROAR Region 5 Championships. I am a die-hard Chicago Bears and Blackhawks fan, a movie enthusiast, and graduated from Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (Phoenix, AZ - 2006). I am one of those people lucky enough to receive goosebumps from live music, my favorite movie is Blues Brothers, and I love attending and watching Supercross racing. My favorite track is Trackside Hobbies and Raceway in Brookfield, WI.

Jerry Dunlap

My hobbies include radio-controlled model boat design, building, and racing. I enjoy all of the Futaba products I use, it would be impossible to pick a single favorite. I've been a member of the North America Model Boat Association Hall of Fame wince 1979, married for over 54 years, and taught grade school for 30 years. I have a son, daughter, and two granddaughters, and a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Oregon. I worked for Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department and drove the Zamboni at the ice rink. I am the secretary of the Kiwanis Club of Clover Park in Lakewood, VA, and have a 2003 Audi A4 convertible that my daughter gifted me in 2015! My favorite place to hobby is Lake Sacajawea in Longview, WA. Email Jerry Dunlap at RCBoats@EarthLink.net

John Schultz

My hobbies include anything RC. I love my Futaba 7PX transmitter and use it for everything from rock crawling to 1/8th-scale. My proudest accomplishments have been working for Team Associated and earning 2009 RC Monster Truck World Champion. I've been married over 29 years to my wife - we met at an RC track - and we have four children. I love to off-road anything. I have an '89 Jeep XL that I built and I have a 650 R Honda I love to ride in the desert. I drove the BKT ride Monster Truck for a year, and my favorite track is Coyote Hobbies and Raceway. Email John Schultz at 650Schultz@Gmail.com or J.Schultz@AssociatedElectrics.com Follow John on his Facebook, the Schultz RC Lab Facebook, and Instagram.

Josh Thiede

Lars Johnson

I enjoy driving nitro and electric off-road as well as oval, especially with my Futaba 7PX radio. I am proud of achieving a single top-10 qualifying round at the 2003 IFMAR 1/10th Off-Road Electric World Championships. I have a daughter I like to spend time with, I'm part of the off-field statistics crew for the National Lacrosse League (Colorado Mammoth), and I'm a season ticket holder for the Colorado Avalanche. I like to hunt and fish in the Colorado mountains, and I enjoy attending full-size dirt oval races. My favorite tracks are HobbyTown HobbyPlex in Omaha, NE and LRC Raceway in Longmont, CO. Follow Lars on Facebook.

Logan Powell

My hobbies of choice are RC, racing with friends, basketball, football, hunting, and spending time with my family. My favorite class is 1/8 Nitro Buggy and my favorite Futaba product is a tie between my 7PX transmitter and HPS-CB700 servos! I love them with my nitro buggies. I like attending Monster Energy Supercross events and playing the game, I enjoy hunting whitetail deer, and my favorite college team is the Oregon Ducks. My favorite track is my home track that I learned to drive on and go to help new racers into the sport, Bullet Town R/C in Milan, TN. Email Logan Powell at BRPowell@Click1.net

Miguel Perez

My favorite hobbies are RC racing with my Futaba 7PX and mountain biking - I love to rid my Santa Cruz=Bronson Mountain Bike (and have definitely taken a few spills). My proudest accomplishment is earning third place in e-buggy at 2018's Silver State Race. I love to travel, I took a Baltic cruise in June 2019 and visited Denmark, Estonia, Russia, Finland, Sweden, and the Netherlands. My favorite baseball team is the Los Angeles Dodgers, I love going to the movies and hanging out with friends, and my favorite track is Thunder Alley RC Raceway. Email Miguel Perez at MMap8532@Hotmail.com Follow Miguel on Facebook.

Ray Molett

Rob Mulvaney

Ron Zaker Jr.

My hobbies include RC hydro racing, helicopters, and parkflyers. The accomplishment I'm proudest of is being inducted into the IMPBA Hall of Fame. I enjoy H.O. slot cars, coaching U16 youth hockey, my 1964 Chevy Impala and 1987 Corvette, and racing/traveling with my dad and friends. My favorite Futaba product is my 3VCS transmitter, and my favorite place to use it is Brahan Spring Park in Huntsville, AL. Email Ron Zaker Jr. at RZaker@Dreisilker.com Follow Ron on Facebook.

Scottie Brewer

My favorite hobby is driving 1/8 off-road with my Futaba 7PX. I'm known at the track as the guy that helps everyone, which is something I'm really proud of. I also earned A-Main for 40+ at Silver State, which is one of my favorite accomplishments. I love tacos, snacks, gas station burritos, and sushi! I'm a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Texas A&M and I work on cryogenic fuel systems. I travel the country to work and have even gotten to travel to Europe for work. My favorite track is Amarillo RC/Motocross in Texas. Email Scottie Brewer at SBrewere@AOL.com Follow Scottie on Facebook.

Steve Richter

I enjoy 1/10-scale and 1/8-scale off roads with my Futaba 7PX, a.k.a. The Best Transmitter on the Market. I'm proudest of my accomplishments making the Main at many large events like AE Champs, US Buggy Champs, and Chitown Shootout. I'm an avid Wisconsin sports fan - Packers, Brewers, Bucks, and from my alma mater, Badgers! I live for nachos and pizza and was city-wide basketball free-throw champ in 5th grade! I'm the dad of a miracle daughter and my favorite track is Trackside Hobbies & Raceway in Milwaukee, WI. Email Steve Richter at SKRichter@Gmail.com Follow Steve on Facebook and Instagram.

Stuart Lewis

My hobbies include RC, motocross, and gaming. I love my Futaba 7PX and my proudest accomplishment is winning Motorama. I enjoy pit bike racing (kids-sized motocross bikes), dyno turning motors, and my prized possession is my motorcycle I hand built. I am married and the father of three and I only follow motorsports. Although it is now closed, my favorite track was Leisure Hours Raceway. Follow Stuart on Facebook.

Tad Goad

I enjoy RC monster truck racing and truck pulling, and my favorite Futaba product is my 7PX transmitter. I am proudest of winning the World Finals and during the summer, we run the Pro Pulling League Champion series with a Super Modified 2WD truck. My favorite track is Monster Jam World Finals. Follow Tad on Instagram.

Trevor 'Chilly' Duncan

My hobbies include RC cars, movies, sports, and running. I am an avid runner and chess player - I even took home some trophies from chess tournaments in high school - and I am a long-suffering KC Chiefs fan. I can clap my hands at a decibel rating over 100 and my claim to fame is that I used to live next door to one of the performers in the rock band Slipknot before he joined the band full-time. My proudest accomplishment was last year at my local track's indoor winter series. I started the day by running a 10K cross country race, showed up at the track late and missed Round 1 of qualifying. I set the TQ in Round 2 and then took the win in the single A Main! My favorite Futaba product is the R304SB-E receiver, and my favorite track is The RC Compound. Email Trevor 'Chilly' Duncan at TrevorD@Airage.com Follow Chilly on Facebook.

ALL REPRESENTATIVES

A.J. Jaffe

AC Glenn

Adam Picard

Adam Drake

AJ Hemken

Al Young

Alan Szabo Jr.

Al Kretz

Alex Dreiling

Alex Kosciuszek

Andrew Jesky

Andrew Rizzo

Ben Batts

Ben Storick

Bill Malvey

Blake Brown

Bob Krull

Brandon Reimschiissel

Brett Wickizer

Brian 'Bogi' Givens

Bryan Blanchard

Caleb Turner

Carey Shurley

My hobbies include RC Helicopters and Airplanes, which I enjoy doing with my Futaba 32MZ and CGY760R. My proudest accomplishment is manufacturing a number of gas helicopter conversion kits and being able to distribute worldwide. I love food, NASCAR, New Orleans Saints NFL football, and LSU college football. My favorite field is the Orlando Radio Control Helicopter Society Field. Follow Carey on the Gas Powered Helicopters Facebook, the Gas Powered Helicopters Facebook Group, and YouTube.

Casey Blasczyk

Chad Northeast

Chris Nelle

Chris Cristo

Chris Siembieda

Cleveland D. Coleman

Cliff Hiatt

Cole Ogden

Curtis Maglinger

Dale Arvin

Darin Peirce

Darwin Barrie

Dave Lockhart

Between my father and I, we have over 90 years of RC flying experience. I enjoy F3A, F3P, and 3D... any high-performance electric planes. I was born in Texas and have been a lifelong Cowboys fan, and I (on more than one occasion) have spent 3+ hours enjoying Fogo De Chao Brazilian Rodizio steak house. In my opinion, the best workshop music needs to include Rush, Dream Theater, Nightwish, Kamelot, and Epica. My proudest accomplishment is my 2011 US Nationals F3A Champion win and my favorite Futaba product is the easy to use, versatile, and powerful 18SZ. My favorite field is Atlantic County Skyblazers Strawberry Field.

Dean Stone