By Garth Calitz

Roston's passion for aviation began at the age of three. As a young boy, he spent considerable time with his grandfather, who was a model flyer. He began flying control line planes at four years old and became the SA Junior Control Line Aerobatics Champion in 2006, 2007, and 2008. Roston quickly excelled in Radio flying, demonstrating a natural talent, and by nine, he was participating in competitions. He ventured into RC Aerobatics at 11 and is currently the SA Junior Indoor Model Aerobatics champion.

In August 2013, Roston secured 24th place in the competition and achieved the top junior position at The World Air Sports Federation's World F3A Championships for aerobatic model aircraft. In 2015, Roston returned to the World Championships, earning a commendable 49th place overall and 7th in the junior category. The South African team finished 12th overall.

In November this year, the South Africans aim to participate in the 30th FAI World F3A Championships in Argentina. To achieve this goal, they will require sponsorship. The estimated cost for each team member is approximately R75,000, which the team must raise themselves. The team is composed of three pilots and a team manager: Roston Dugmore, Andre Stockwell, Clinton Carter Brown, and team manager Grant Brook.

The rules for F3A modeling closely resemble those of full-size aerobatics. Competitors must perform a series of predetermined maneuvers within a designated box. Judges evaluate them based on the precision of their maneuver execution. Additionally, there are restrictions on the size of the aircraft used: the wingspan and length must not exceed 2000mm, and the weight must not be more than 5 kg.

Roston advanced his passion for aviation by enrolling in a program and promptly beginning his Private Pilot License (PPL), which he successfully obtained. He is currently pursuing his Commercial Pilot License. Roston is affiliated with the EAA’s Chapter 322 and is a dedicated supporter of the Young Eagles project, having been a Young Eagle himself not long ago.

We wish Roston and the Team the Greatest Success in Argentina, if anyone is interested in sponsoring the team please feel free to contact me on editor@flightlineweekly.co.za and I will forward you all their contact details.

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