Cape hosting competition for radio-controlled airplane pilots

Radio-controlled airplane enthusiasts from across the country are expected at the second annual 3D Radio Controlled Airplane Acrobatic Competition, a four-day event at Galaxy Park from today through Sunday.

Rick Renfrow, an organizer of the event, said the event drew close to 60 entrants in 2012, and more are expected for this year's competition.

"We expect people coming in from as far away as Florida, California and Texas," he said.

According to Renfrow, the radio-controlled airplanes generally will feature 7-foot wingspans and be powered by gasoline engines or electric battries.

Pilots of the aircraft will be recognized for their skills in varying competitions, such as flying an inverted plane as close to the ground as possible.

There will be acrobatic demonstrations for the public at 2 p.m. Saturday, and the offical night-flying competition will be Saturday night, Renfrow said.

The competition is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. today through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free all four days of the event, and refreshments provided by the Cape Girardeau Fire Department will be on sale.

For more information on the 3D Radio Controlled Airplane Acrobatic Competition, call Renfrow at 450-7696 or visit semmarc.com.

Pertinent address: 441 Gizmo Lane, Cape Girardeau, MO