１機数百万円の機体も…日本トップクラスの技を見よう！　高知でラジコン日本選手権

A competition to determine the best radio-controlled airplane pilot in Japan began on the 2nd in Tosa City, Kochi Prefecture. The many skills displayed while piloting aircraft worth several million yen each are truly breathtaking. The Japan Radio-Controlled Airplane Championships have been held on the riverbed at the mouth of the Niyodo River since the 2nd. Organized by the Japan Model Aeronautics Federation for over 60 years, top finishers in the competition pave the way to the World Championships. For the second year in a row, the event is being held in Kochi, with a total of 38 participants, including 30 pilots who won qualifying rounds in seven regions across the country and eight top prize-winners in 2024. Also present at the event was Tetsuo Onda, who won the World Championships in 2017 and is aiming for his 21st consecutive victory in the Japan Championships. (Tetsuo Otoda, aiming for his 21st consecutive victory at the Japan Championships) "I arrived in Kochi the day before yesterday, so I'm perfectly accustomed to the weather. The World Championships were held in the United States in August, and this is the same plane I used there, where I came in third place." The radio-controlled planes used in competitions vary in design, showcasing the athlete's individual preferences. Each plane can cost anywhere from 1 million to 3 million yen. The preliminary round began under clear, blue skies, perfect weather for flying. While there are various divisions in radio-controlled airplane competitions, this time participants performed 17 maneuvers within a designated area, with judges evaluating the accuracy of their piloting skills and the beauty of their flight. (Over 30 years of experience with radio-controlled aircraft) "I'm disappointed with my first attempt, but I have two more attempts, tomorrow and the day after, so I want to fly them without any regrets." (Tetsuji Okumura, Competition Chairman, Japan Model Aeronautics Federation) "Even flying it straight is difficult. It's a maneuver that requires delicate control to perform flips and rolls accurately. I hope everyone will come and see these intricate flying feats." The competition will be held on the banks of the Niyodo River estuary, with qualifying rounds running until the 4th, and the finals on the 5th.