My introduction into model aviation was while I was serving in the U.S. Navy in Hawaii. As a young sailor living in the barracks, I needed something to do, so I decided to build a Goldberg Gentle Lady Sailplane on a bathroom door sat on top of two chairs. I tossed this glider off the third story of the barracks and flew it to the parking lot below, until I learned there were areas in Oahu where I could fly it.
Once I moved back to the mainland (San Diego, CA), I started flying slope soaring sailplanes at the Torrey Pines Glider port. These sailplanes were from Charlie Richardson's (CR Aircraft) design team. After doing this type of flying for about 4 years, my flying buddy said to me, "We should try flying power planes." Like crack, I should have said, "No." But being an adventurous person, and liking the idea, it led us to buy 40 size trainers.
After about 1 year, I ripped the wings off in flight, trying to do more than the plane could handle. This accident forced me to buy a .40 size Great Planes Extra 300, which I flew for nearly 4 years while learning how to do basic aerobatics. During this time, I met my wife, who asked me what I wanted for my birthday. I replied, "A 1/4 scale, Dave Patrick Extra 300."
This hobby has evolved in technology and in plane design and construction. I now have a multitude of planes (electric & gas) and helicopters ranging in size from 18" to a 40% Carden pro Extra 300, and an Avanti XS turbine jet, along with a 700 size Roban Jayhawk. I have a very supportive wife who understands how happy this hobby makes me and is elated that I am associated with all of the great people around me in this hobby.
