In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to Australia team driver, Tommy Dexter!
1. When and how did you get started in RC? And what class do you compete in or did you primarily bash your vehicles?
When I was around 12 years old (1987) in Adelaide (South Australia) there was an 1/8 nitro on-road track nearby called Little Hampton. I’d spend my weekends at the track, dreaming of one day owning one. I saved my money and bought a Tamiya Wild One and built it. They built an off-road track and I began racing in 2wd Stock (540 Silver Can) with an Acoms stick radio. I enjoyed it so much I saved more money and bought the latest KO Propo wheel radio. And then a Tekin speedy; I was hooked.
2. In your opinion, what classes have you noticed that seem to be in a decline? And how would you try to resolve this so there is more participation?
Where we are, post-Worlds, and in the Covid climate, there has been a real turn down in 1/8 off-road racing particularly. It’s even tough to find a Hobby store to buy fuel. I’m currently involved with a new Club closer to home and our intentions are to have fuel available to sell at the track and also have a track surface that isn’t specific to one type of tyre tread or compound. So competitors don’t need boxes of tyres to be competitive.
3. Drag racing in RC is huge right now. Why do you think this is, and do you think it is a “fad” or here to stay for many years?
I have only seen drag racing online, and it doesn’t have a following in Australia as far as I know. I assume it appeals to the creative hobbyists who can make or modify there own parts and test them against the clock. I also imagine the rules aren’t too restrictive and the winning margins could be quite tight making it very exciting to compete.
4. To date what is your favorite JConcepts product of all time and why?
My favorite JC product is the Silencer body. It’s super stylish, it looks great on any car, and the best thing is it fits like a glove! So easy to cut out to the lines and it just fits. The Kosmos is also a great tyre since it works on so many different surfaces. It’s a very versatile tyre.
5. Name one thing people might be surprised to know about you.
I was adopted from birth and have never sought to find my ‘original family’. My ‘new’ parents loved me like their own and I’ve never felt the need to find the originals. I figure they gave me up for a good reason, and that was because they wanted the best for me. I’m very thankful to have had a great life so far, with RC being one of my hobbies.