He is a member of the Barnstormers model aircraft flying club.
The teenager and his father, Ron Parker, had two weeks to build a model aeroplane from scratch.
The goal was to build the most cost-effective model able to endure various challenges such as combat and touch-and-goes.
His self-built plane was wrecked in the competition.
Christopher recently received his solo licence, which is the first qualification to fly the models independently.
Ron, who is also a member of the club, explained there are five levels of certification.
“You get your solo first, and then bronze, silver and gold and then you can become an instructor,” he said.
Christopher said he flies the models just for fun and wouldn’t want to make a career of it.
“I want to keep this a fun thing to do,” he said.
Rod said these types of competitions are held to build club spirit and for all members to have fun.
“We have some SAA captains who come here to fly and relax,” he said.
He said anybody can get involved and the club lets newcomers use one of its planes to see if they are interested in the hobby.
Members also get free lessons from qualified instructors.
“We have members who fly internationally,” said Rod explaining that the club is open for amateurs and professional model flyers.
He also said people tend to think the hobby is extravagantly expensive but he claims one can start out with R2 000.
Rod said some people have planes worth R250 000 but admitted that they were going overboard.
Christopher, however, admitted that he has to rely on special occasions for new models.
Barnstormers is located on the R25.
To get involved with the club, community members can phone Gareth Randall on 082 771 9452.
Also read: Northmead resident hooked on his hobby
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