Racing the Past: A Nostalgic Journey through Miami’s RC Car Scene
It was the mid-90s, and the world of remote control car racing was a thrilling escape for me and my friends. Behind “Andy’s Hobbies,” in Kendall, Florida, a local hobby shop that was the hub for all things RC, we gathered in the parking lot to unleash our miniature speed demons. The excitement in the air was palpable as we prepared our electric RC cars for an adrenaline-fueled race (Ok, it was electric:-)
Back then, having an electric RC track was rare, making “Andy’s Hobbies” a cherished destination for enthusiasts like us. The variety of cars and classes catered to all levels of skill, and I had found my passion in the Yokohama 4WD with a sleek Porsche 993 body.
As I lined up with the other drivers in the 4-wheel-drive sedan class, my heart raced, mirroring the revving of the tiny motors in our cars. The smell of freshly cut grass and the sound of chatter among the crowd created a unique atmosphere that added to the anticipation.
The starting signal blared, and our cars shot forward, jostling for position. Skilled racers maneuvered their way through the tight corners with ease, while amateurs like me focused on keeping the car on the track. Each twist and turn was a test of precision and control, and the competition was fierce.
Despite the friendly rivalry, the RC car community felt like a tight-knit family. We exchanged tips and tricks, discussed car modifications, and celebrated each other’s victories. It didn’t matter if you were an experienced racer or a newcomer; everyone was welcomed with open arms.
As the years passed, “Andy’s Hobbies” changed hands, and the RC car scene evolved. Our passion for racing grew, and we outgrew the small parking lot. The RC peeps moved to the iconic Tropical Park in Miami, where Henry was managing it and it became a place for the gas-powered RC cars. The transition brought new challenges and excitement.
I remember the first time I raced my Serpent at Tropical Park. The larger track demanded more from both the car and the driver. The scent of nitro fuel filled the air as gas-powered cars roared past, but I held on to my electric RC roots. I liked the electric vibe better, it was cleaner, and not to mention quieter. I liked the electric distinct classes as well: the nimble Mini Coopers, the sleek Formula 1 cars, and of course, the 4WD sedans.
With each race, my skills improved, and my love for RC car racing deepened. I cherished the camaraderie among the racers, the sense of belonging to a passionate community that understood the thrill of controlling a car from a distance.
Although life eventually took me down different paths, I will always look back on those days with fondness. The memories of racing behind “Andy’s Hobbies” and later at Tropical Park will forever be etched in my heart. The camaraderie, the adrenaline, and the pursuit of excellence in RC car racing united us, and those experiences shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
So, as I reminisce about my Yokohama 4WDR with a Porsche 993 body, I can’t help but smile. Those were the days when I was young, carefree, and connected to something extraordinary – the vibrant world of Miami’s remote control car racing.
