The monster trucks and custom cars hit the road at top speed with the drivers controlling them with the slightest movement of a finger.
Radio-controlled model vehicles let racing enthusiasts of any age enjoy the sport.
“Our youngest member is five. It’s a great family activity,” said Jason Rowe, of the Vernon RC (Radio-Controlled) Club. “I got into it about five years ago when my buddy bought one. They’re fast, big and loud and a lot of fun. I’m visually impaired so if I can do it, anyone can do it.”
The vehicles — models of standard racing cars and trucks, or customized models — run on battery or methane fuel engines and are “driven” with a pistol grip remote control. The most powerful models can go more than 100 miles per hour.
Rowe and his wife, Tracy Rowe, build their own vehicles, from painting the bodies — he does the spray painting and she does the details — to putting in the engines. Their current favourites are a Traxxas Revo truck and a Savage four-wheel drive. He’s looking for a Tamiya Ford F350 High Lift.
“It’s fun making the models and the racing. I call these the big boy toys but there are quite a few women involved too,” said Tracy.
People who want to get started in the sport right away can buy ready-to-go vehicles for under $500.
“You can get what you need at Lester’s Hobby. It’s a local store and I like to deal locally,” said Jason. “We would like people to know the club is here and they can come out and meet people who enjoy the sport and maybe join in.
“We want to set up some races and have a demonstration to let people know more about it this fall. It’s a great way to get out and have fun.”
For more information about the Vernon RC Club, call Jason at 250-938-1450.
