Red-hot Atlanta racing

Radio Control Boat Modeler, Oct 2002 by Yarrish, Gerry

Although we're now well into the powerboat-racing season, we had a chance in April to get an early start. If ever there was a place for redhot race action, then the International Model Powerboat Association's (IMPBA) Spring Nationals was the place to be! We sent assistant editor and resident gear head Matt Boyd to Atlanta to check out all the rooster-tails, and judging by the exciting action photos he brought back, I'd say that they really know how to go fast in Georgia! The 2002 Spring Nationals was certainly a great opportunity to get a close-up look at some winning boat combinations. Look for more details on the Atlanta action in his race report on page 46. What a winning way to start a racing season!

Also in this issue is John Finch's latest article on how to trim and adjust hydroplanes for maximum performance. In "Trimming hydros for maximum speed," John shares more of his race-winning techniques, and this time, he describes how to correct propwalk and torque problems. John's secrets are just the thing to help get you going faster and straighter. See page 34 for all his speed information.

Running fast electrics gives a special sort of satisfaction. For beginners, however, getting started can be a little confusing. This month, Jay Turner supplies information in his "Fast Electrics" column that will help newcomers get started. From choosing the right hop-up motor and hull, to selecting the correct speed control and battery packs, Jay lets you know what works. So if you've been thinking about getting your feet wet in electrics, check out Jay's column on page 36.

GET ONLINE

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned RC boat veteran, I hope that all of you will log on to our new online RC model boat bulletin board (BB) at www.rczone.com. Moderated by longtime RC Boat Modeler contributor Rick Eyrich, the new BB is a great place to find boat-related information and to keep up with what's happening in the world of RC model boating. From beginners' questions and event listings to tips on how to go faster, build better and trim your boat to run straighter, the BB is meant to be an online hangout for modelers who want to talk boats. Forum topics include: fast electrics, scale boats, sailboats, submarines, gasoline and nitro race boats. You'll also find a "Buy, Sell, Trade and Wanted Forum." Just like other topic-oriented online BBs, the RC Boat Modeler site is a place where you can ask and/or answer the questions and connect with others who share an interest in our hobby. Rick makes sure that it runs smoothly, and he will help set up forum topics and direct traffic. I hope you all enjoy this new feature and that you'll find it helpful.

While you're at it, be sure to check the rest of the RC Boat Modeler website. You'll find boat articles and reviews, model boat plans and other boat-related items that may interest you. Have fun surfing the RC boating Web!

We value your opinion! Do you have a comment or a complaint? Write to the editors at Radio Control Boat Modeler, 100 East Ridge, Ridgefield, CT 06877-4606 USA, or email us at rcboatmodeter@airage.com. See us on the Web at www.rcboatmode(er.com.