Corvin Miller memorial RC scale contest

Model Airplane News, Jun 2003 by Bousquet, Phil

For years, members of the Sarasota R/C Squadron have hosted the annual Royal Palm Scale Contest, a regional event that draws competitors from across the South to compete in a variety of scale categories. But following the passing of longtime fellow club member and friend, Corvin Miller, the Sarasota R/C Squadron decided that a fitting tribute was in order and unanimously agreed to re-dedicate the event. So, on a cool, crisp weekend last November, club members and entrants gathered instead for the first-ever Corvin Miller R/C Scale Classic in Sarasota, FL.

Despite a cool 15mph wind to open the two-day competition on Saturday, there was certainly no lack of eager pilots and spectators. Thirty-four models were entered in six categories: Fun-Scale Novice, Fun-Scale Advanced, Sportsman, Expert, Team and Designer. With 13 participants, the Fun-Scale Advanced division was by far the largest. With the exception of the Fun-Scale Novice division (flight only), a combination of static and flight scores determined the winners. In the end, those who ranked in the top three in each category went home with a beautifully engraved plaque.

When the dust finally settled on that beautiful Sunday afternoon, Dave Platt stood atop the Designer class, and Chip Greene had wrapped up the Sportsman with his F8F-2 Bearcat. In Fun-Scale Advanced, the teenagers took control, finishing in the top three places. Twins Thomas and Logan Arbuckle finished first and third, respectively, with Chris Buell taking home second. All three dominated the Fun-Scale Advanced category the previous year, and they obviously have continued to improve. Look for them to challenge the big names in scale competition in the near future.

Overall, the first-ever Corvin Miller R/C Scale Classic was a rousing success. The relaxing, friendly atmosphere fostered by members of the Sarasota R/C Squadron provided everyone with an opportunity to enjoy the company of old friends and participate in a little healthy competition. It's a great event, enjoyed by competitors and spectators alike. I highly recommend making the trip.