Tuscola RC Fest links fun hobby to life-saving cause

TUSCOLA, Ill. (WCIA) — RC Fest was back in action in Tuscola this weekend — but it’s an event with a deeper meaning than just remote-controlled cars and boats.

The Douglas County tradition is continuing to grow, even 14 years later. Adam Munds and others created it as a way to connect his hobby of radio-controlled cars, or RCs, with something people are always in need of: blood donations.

When he was born, Munds needed a blood transfusion. His way of giving back was to collect donations for ImpactLife. Now, the event continues to thrive.

“Yeah, the first two we had about 12 people, I think it was. And now we’re upwards of 150 people, with people coming in from 19 different states,” Munds said.

That includes California, Texas and New Hampshire.

It’s a passion Munds wanted to share with others, like third-year attendee Joshua Marcum.

“There are super unique things that we get to do. The events are unlike any other events,” he said. “You know, there’s crawler courses, the boats. It’s just amazing. And everybody here is super cool and will help you with anything.”

Even young attendees like Axton Wages share in the enthusiasm.

“I love being here with my friends and my uncle and my dad, and it’s just fun to have everybody here.”

Munds said that with community support, he is eager to watch the RC Fest grow and grow in years to come.

“So, if we’re able to give back, you know, whether monetary or blood products — I feel like we’re doing a great thing.

If you’d like to make any donations to the event and its mission, visit www.rcfest.net .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.