July 15, 2013

You know summer is in full-swing when you hear the whizz-bang of toy rockets launching at South Whidbey Community Park.

Whidbey Life Magazine photographer David Welton captured one of the oldest traditions of summer on South Whidbey at Leonard Good’s Model Rocket Camp, which he teaches each year in conjunction with South Whidbey Parks and Recreation. This series of photos captures the excitement experienced by Jackson Martin, age 6, as he launches and then retrieves his custom-made rocket.

Leonard Good organizes the rockets to be made ready for launch in the park. (David Welton photos)

The rocket launch site is always up to date with the most modern equipment.

Families gather at the park to watch on launch day.

Take off!

Jackson Martin, 6, tracks his rocket in the sky.

Finally, Jackson retrieves his precious cargo.

Model Rocket Camp at South Whidbey Parks and Rec

Kids ages 9 to 13 (younger students are welcome with an adult) can create and launch their very own model rockets!
The next class is from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, July 23 to 25.
On Tuesday and Wednesday students will build and finish a complete 20–inch model rocket. Rockets are made from cardboard tubes with balsa-wood fins and are powered by a B or C Estes model-rocket motor. The rockets have a parachute for recovery, so students can take their rockets home.

Thursday is launch day, when everyone is encouraged to come with a camera to document your rocket’s first flight!

Leonard Good is the instructor at the South Whidbey Parks and Recreation Department on Maxwelton Road, Room 125. This class fills early.
Room 125.

A $15 materials fee must be paid directly to instructor at the first class. Visit the website for more info.