Transcribed and edited by JS (11/2007), Reformatted by JS (09/2009)
Florida Aeromodeler Celebrates 50th Anniversary 1952-2002
Born in Indiana in 1942, Jim Hoffer has had his head and heart in the clouds since 1952. In 1953, at the age of 11, Jim participated in his first model airplane competition in Toledo, Ohio, flying a rudder-only airplane. He flew Control Line, Sport, and Combat until 1962, and occasionally flew Sport Control Line. From 1952 until 1980, he flew Rudder-only, Intermediate, Multi, Novice, and Expert Pattern, and moved on to Master class. In the 1960s, Jim raced Goodyear Pylon, and later Quickie 500s and Quarter Midgets.
Also in the 1960s, Jim’s interests included full-scale aircraft. In 1964, he earned his private license and flew a 1962 Piper Colt. Over the years, he has owned an Aeronca Chief, a Piper Super Cruiser, and several ultra lights. In 1979, Jim earned his Glider rating.
Jim’s background includes competing in Society of Antique Modelers (SAM) Radio Control, Gliders, and at numerous fun-flys and seaplane meets. From 1993 to 1998, he raced Giant Scale AT-6s, always finishing among the leaders. His current primary interests are fly-ins by the International Miniature Airplane Association (IMAA) and Southern Warbird Association.
In 1965, Jim began manufacturing fiberglass airplanes of his own design, producing handlaunched gliders with up to 11-foot wingspans, several trainers, Sport models, Pattern airplanes, and quarter- and third-scale models. He also manufactures component parts, including fiberglass landing gear, cowls, engine mounts, assemblies, and more (such as custom foam cutting and custom construction of all types.)
From 1988, Jim and his wife, Pat, have owned retail hobby shops both in Indiana and Florida, presently operating Hobby Country in Sebring, Florida.
Jim is President of the Sebring Model Airplane Club in Sebring. He earned his AMA Contest Director designation in 1962, and Leader Member designation in the mid-1960s. He has actively maintained both to the present.
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