Builder of the Month: Rodger Abad (July 2025)

Boom Racing:

Can you tell us about your very first RC build? What inspired you to create it?

Rodger Abad:

My first RC build was a balsa gas-powered airplane; for electric, it was a Tamiya Hornet and Wild Willy. For the scale crawler, it was the BRX01 LC70 no. 066, followed by BRX02 109 (146L), and the latest is the BRX01 AWB no. 233.

Boom Racing:

What does Boom Racing as a brand mean to you, and how has it influenced your passion for RC builds?

Rodger Abad:

I started with the hobby during my high school days, building and running nitro-powered cars, planes and boats. I had a number of battery-powered RC cars at that time, and it was only in my fifties that I totally shifted to battery-powered cars. I was a nitro speed freak and a basher before I transitioned to RC crawling. I raced 1/10 and 1/8 scale nitro-powered RC cars in Hong Kong during my stay as an Architect during the construction of the new Hong Kong Airport in Chek Lap Kok. I have a number of RC crawlers at the time when Jason of Boom Racing introduced BRX01 here in Manila, Philippines. I was not able to attend the launch of BRX01 in Hong Kong, but as soon as it was available locally, I got myself one. It was love at first sight or may I say, love at first build. I currently own three rigs from Boom Racing; it is the epitome of scale realism and engineering in radio control cars, and the build experience is mind-boggling. Every component, from the smallest screws up to the bigger parts like chassis and drivetrain, is well engineered, and the material used is robust and strong, guaranteeing long life and reliability. Another aspect of the hobby which is usually on the back burner is the customer service and professionalism. During the latest build of my BRX01 AWB, one of the lenses for the rear light was missing, and after reporting this to Joel Berones, they sent me a whole set of the lenses within a week, free of charge.

Boom Racing:

Living in the Philippines, what unique opportunities or challenges does it bring to your RC hobby?

Rodger Abad:

There are numerous RC groups in the Philippines, and these groups are very proactive in promoting the hobby to the common masses. Likewise, there are hobby stores which are now catering to all walks of life, ages and genders. The hobby is now affordable to all walks of life, from toy grade to hobby grade RC cars, but if you want scale realism, unlimited builders possibilities and after-market parts, go for Boom Racing rigs and you won't regret your decision.

Boom Racing:

The BRX range is known for its versatility and quality. Why do you feel these kits meet your needs as a builder?

Rodger Abad:

The BRX kits are the product of continuous R&D. They are well-engineered and driven by a passion for excellence, suitability and enormous design possibilities. The sky is the limit with these kits and will ignite your power to create something real.

Boom Racing:

Out of all the builds you've completed, which one stands out as your favourite and why?

Rodger Abad:

My favourite build was the BRX02 109, it was fun and challenging and having the iconic Land Rover Series III hard body included in the kit is a game changer. During a Sunday trail run in a local trail resort, while traversing a steep rock face, my rig lost traction and tumbled two meters down the rock face. It survived the fall with only a few scratches and a broken bonnet hinge.

Boom Racing:

What advice would you give to someone who is building their very first RC kit?

Rodger Abad:

For those guys who are building their very first RC kits, just enjoy the process, have fun and read the manual thoroughly. Do not be afraid to reach out to other hobbyists for guidance and advice. Enjoy yourself and bring out the inner kid in you.

Boom Racing:

In your opinion, what is the single most important tool that every builder must invest in to aid the construction of their kits?

Rodger Abad:

Get yourself quality tools like hexes, pliers, screwdrivers and cutters. I have been using Hudy tools ever since.

Boom Racing:

How do you stay inspired and creative while working on long and intricate RC projects?

Rodger Abad:

Working on RC projects for me is a creative process and very fulfilling, I do extensive research to familiarize myself with the project, especially on how to enhance the scale realism of an RC crawler. Although it takes a lot of patience, especially during the finishing and painting stages, try to step back once in a while and admire the finished product and think of how you can enhance the project. If you have the budget, get a 3D printer and print your own scale accessories.

Boom Racing:

What role do RC build communities play in fostering your skills and enthusiasm for the hobby?

Rodger Abad:

The RC build communities play an important role in enhancing individual skills of each hobbyist by providing inspiration to other builders through their works. It also gives insights into how an individual person's creativity and perseverance can create master work of RC arts.