For Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD — Members of the Mid State Aeroguidance Club will host their annual Fun Fly on Aug. 5 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the club’s flying field north of Stratford. The event is free to attend and open to the public. Brats, burgers, hot dogs, and soft drinks will be available for purchase.

The club consists of modelers who build, fly, and maintain all types of remote-controlled model airplanes and helicopters. Pilots from other clubs throughout the state will participate in the Fun Fly, demonstrating their skills.

Club members and visiting pilots will fly a variety of craft, including giant-scale, gas-powered aerobatic planes. All pilots must hold a valid Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) membership card. For those interested in seeing demonstrations and learning more about the sport, members will be happy to share their expertise.

“We talk to people about taking lessons on a one-on-one basis,” explained Sandy MacDonald, one of the club’s instructors.

During the winter months, club members also offer instruction in flying small, electric model airplanes at the Marshfield High School field house on Saturday or Sunday mornings.

“We’ve had as many as 12 and as few as three,” noted MacDonald. “If kids let me know, I can bring my buddy box,” which allows a student to fly. Duplicate controls enable the experienced pilot to take over when needed.

“It’s a real trick to learn how to steer when it’s coming towards you because the radio is backwards. The little electrics give a good chance to do that,” he added.

The Mid State Aeroguidance Club was founded in 1973 and is chartered with the AMA. To learn more about the club, go to msaero.com. The club’s newsletter, Just PLANE Talk, is also available online.

To reach the club’s flying field, take Highway 97 north of Stratford, turn east onto Rock Road, and then go ¾ mile to the field.