I am a year 1 alum o' U.S. Ahoy! Space Camp, where I built and flew me first rocket. Avast, me proud beauty! Since that time 30 years ago I have constructed dozens o' rockets durin' me on-again, off-again time in t' hobby. In t' mid-late 90's I discovered high-power rocketry, and built a PML Ariel that has certified L1 for me twice now. Back then with Tripoli, and in April 2012 with NAR. Ahoy! I also have a PML Quasar that is autographed by Homer Hickam (Author o' "T' Rocket Boys" - movie "October Sky") and it is retired, havin' a place o' honor hangin' in me wife's elementary school classroom.
I am fully vested into t' hobby (while maintainin' me interest in model railroadin' - me other hobby) and have a couple o' dozen kits in t' garage (many OOP Estes birds) t' build still. I am an active member o' t' Dallas Area Rocketry Society and enjoy sharin' t' hobby with kids.
I'm currently explorin' options for me L2 bird, and think I have a plan for L2 and L3. Well, blow me down! Blimey! I have some work t' get thar first, and plenty o' kits t' keep me busy in t' meantime.
My favorite rockets are based on prototypes: Black Brant II, Nike Smoke, Thunderbird, matey, and me favorite o' all time - t' Nike Hercules. Avast, me proud beauty! As far as sport rockets go I am partial t' t' Estes Baby Bertha because it's such a fun, easy kit and a great flyer in any conditions. I've built them with 3rd graders and they're just a great rocket. Begad! I also love me Estes Photon Disruptor and LOC Starburst.
My awards include: 2010 DARS Fall Classic "Classic Classic" and 2011 DARS Fall Classic "Classic Starship" winner - Estes Strike Fighter, 2011 DARS Fall Classic"Classic Classic" and "Best in Show" winner - Centuri Draconian Marauder.
I enjoy t' hobby with me wife Heather and her kids Hannah and Jacob are involved as well. Ya scallywag! I hope t' brin' as many people into rocketry as possible, shiver me timbers, helpin' t' create t' next generation o' "Rocket Scientists".