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COMPETITION AND FUN: BODEL POWER BOATS
from: Over the past few years, the number of model boat clubs has grown. A significant increase in membership is the direct result of the ongoing and even growing interest in model power boats.Building model boats has always been a fascinating hobby for many people. The desire to recreate the golden age of sail or power boats, the desire to create a duplicate, replicate or even new model of a past or present boat is part of the driving force behind clubs and organizations across the globe. Model boat kits can be expensive but, so, too, can construct one from complete scratch. Some people design, build and even race them.
There are two basic types of model power boat boats - those that are and those that are not radio controlled (R/C). The most popular is the R/C power boat. These are boats with speed.
Places to check out models and to decide whether this is the hobby for you include craft or model boat stores. Here you can talk to people who know the product and should be able to help you make an informed decision before buying a model power boat. They can help you in deciding whether price is the decisive factor or whether the construction of the boat is more significant in the decision making process. Is one easier to assemble than another? Can additions or alterations be made? How fast can the boat really go?
Another possibility is a club. The hobby has various clubs and organizations across Canada, the United States, Great Britain and Australia and New Zealand. In England, the Model Power Boat Association (MPBA) governs. In North America, there are three organizations. The American Power Boat Association for R/C Racing (AMPBA) focuses on R/C boats. The International Model Power Boat Association (IMPBA) handles the organization of venues and events for racing nitro and electric R/C boats. The North American Model Boat Association (NAMBA) promotes model building, holding regattas across Canada and the United States.
These organizations can help you by connecting you to local clubs and organizations while providing you with specific information. NAMBA can tell you, for instance, what district you are in and who to contact (although you can check their site on the web). There are 20 districts including these clubs - the Tuscon Model Boat Club and the Sport hog Model Boat Club. IMPBA has 14 districts. Their clubs include Buoy Blasters Model Boat Club and Oakland Model Boat Club. These organizations, large and small, hold races, trials and divisional. They set the rules to be followed and outline what boats are qualified to enter what events. In building model power boats, size, weight and construction really do matter.
A final source to consult before making the leap into collecting model power boats is a toy fair. Here, the very latest models are lined up for testing. Anyone of them could help you in your decision to become a model power boat builder.
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