On December 8-9-10, 2023, The Orlando Radio Controlled Helicopter Society (TORCHS) held their annual Winter Bash. The Winter Bash is a radio controlled helicopter fun fly that should be on every RC helicopter pilot`s calendar.

It`s a fairly large event, which took the place of an event we called OHB...the Orlando Helicopter Blowout. This year, there were a little over 100 registered pilots, and at least that many spectators.

One thing that I really enjoy about the Winter Bash is that it is a very relaxed setting, and there is no pressure to do demo flights of contests. It`s just a bunch of like minded friends getting together to have some fun, and to catch up on what`s happened since the previous year.

My main sponsor, Miniature Aircraft, traveled all the way from Germany to attend the event. I had such a wonderful time hanging out with Judith and Josef, and the entire team that weekend. We flew our helicopters, promoted the Miniature Aircraft brand, and just enjoyed the event during the days. But our fun did not stop there. In the evenings, we all went out to have dinner at some nice area restaurants.

My sister Grace and I usually do tent camping when we attend events together, but this year... we decided to treat ourselves to a hotel for the weekend. We stayed at the same hotel that the rest of the Miniature Aircraft team stayed, which caused us to have even more fun. Having a hot shower, a warm bed, and A/C really appealed to us too. So We`re thinking of staying at that hotel again next year.

Raja was there as well, putting on an awesome show with his Whiplash Turbine. That helicopter always draws a crowd when he sends it up. He was also showing off his incredible auto rotation skills with the turbine, and his Whiplash gasser. 

If you have never attended the Winter Bash, it is truly an event to consider. It`s a lot of fun, and there is always a good time to be had. Not to mention, that there are food vendors on site to keep us fed and happy. Plus the pilot raffle is always really good, with a lot of high dollar prizes being given away to a lot of lucky winners. 

So come on out to the TORCHS Winter Bash next December, and have a great time with us. I`m already planning for it. I hope to see you all there.

As always...... Safe and happy flying to everyone. :)