Fun flight at aero modelling show

NAGPUR: When nine-year-old Gaurav Patel flew the first electric glider of the aero modelling show organised by the Rotary Club of Nagpur Mihan Town and Aero Vision, he probably pushed many of the kids there into thinking 'I can do this too.'
The show held on Sunday morning at the University Sports Ground was aimed at encouraging children to take up aero modelling. "Children can gain a lot from it.Today, there are so many applications of aero modelling due to the technological advancements," said Rajesh Joshi, founder Aero Vision.
The show was supposed to have four categories of aero models - aero planes, helicopters, jets and multi-copters. But, due to some problem, the jets couldn't participate in it. Still, children thoroughly enjoyed the performance put up in other categories.
The show started with the basic chug glider which has no engines and uses only the lift by the air to glide. Then, as the show progressed, more complex aero models enthralled the crowd with their acrobatics. "I am really enjoying this show," said Shreyansh Agrawal, one of the children present there. While keeping his eyes on the skies, he added, "It is the first time I am seeing this and I am thrilled."
When a fly-cam, a camera attached to a multi-copter zoomed over the stands, many children left their seats to follow it toward the grounds as if it was the 'Pied Piper of Hamelin'. Their excitement only increased when a helicopter model dropped some flower petals and chocolates in its flight path.
As an advanced acrobatic aero model swirled and spun, Aman Rai, another child at the show, said, "This is my favourite. It is so exciting." His friend Himanshu Patil, who was shielding his eyes from the sun, added, "No, the heat isn't bothering us. We are getting to see something new."
Rotary project director of the programme, Anand Hege said another show will be organized on April 27 at Delhi Public School grounds on Kamptee Road. "Later, we will be organizing a two-day workshop too. Now onwards, the show and the workshop would be held regularly," he said.
"What I liked most about the show was that the aero models were not some distant objects flying in the air. Children could actually see them doing acrobatics at a close distance, which I think aroused interest in their minds," said Smrutee Harne, a teacher and a parent.