DARRELL SPRAYBERRY
Southern Scale Helicopter Challenge Contest Director
By Jay Smith | jays@modelaircraft.org
JAY SMITH: How did you become involved with model aviation?
DARRELL SPRAYBERRY: I have always liked airplanes and building and flying model aircraft were what I could afford to do.
JS: How has model aviation impacted your life and/or career?
DS: Like most who are involved in the hobby, I have made friends all around the world. That has made my life more complete. I worked on my A&P mechanics
rating for a couple of years and the model building made that easier.
JS: What disciplines of modeling do you currently participate in?
DS: My first love is Scale helicopters, but I enjoy large-scale airplanes as well. I am building a Stuka that has a 152-inch wingspan and a 1/4-scale OV-10. Both are made from epoxy and fiberglass. My latest discipline has been turbine jets, thanks to Greg Alderman. I also build Scale RC submarines.
JS: What other hobbies do you have?
DS: I also enjoy scuba diving.
JS: Who or what has influenced you the most?
DS: I have been greatly influenced by the friendships that I have made through my modeling activities.
JS: What advice would you give someone wanting to get into Scale helis?
DS: I would suggest finding someone who builds Scale helicopters and make a new friend! Whether it is in person or on the web, help is available. Then build your dream helicopter and show it off!
