Celebrating 40 Years of Horizon Hobby

Forty years ago, Horizon Hobby took its first steps in the quiet basement of Rick Stephens’ home in Champaign, Illinois. Joined by Janet Ottmers, Debra Love, and Eric Myers, they set out to create a radio control company providing extraordinary customer service. On October 1, 1985, we officially opened for business and steadily expanded the reach of the radio control hobby into the worldwide phenomenon it is today.

Horizon Hobby marks its 40th anniversary in 2025. Over the past four decades, we have not only introduced countless enthusiasts to the thrill of RC cars, trucks, planes, boats, and helicopters but have also shaped the industry through groundbreaking technology and a commitment to quality.

Throughout its history, Horizon Hobby has been synonymous with breakthrough products and technologies. Milestones like the HobbyZone Firebird, which made RC flight accessible to beginners, and the introduction of Spektrum 2.4GHz radio systems, which revolutionized how enthusiasts connect with their hobby, moved the industry forward. These innovations didn’t just benefit us—they transformed the entire RC landscape, welcoming new generations of hobbyists and fueling industry growth.

By continuing to push the envelope on what is possible in radio control, we offer unique radio control adventures with world-class brands that support the dreams of RC drivers and pilots. The focus has always been on creating new customer experiences through innovative technology providing pilots and drivers with smoother handling and greater confidence. For example, Horizon transformed radio control flight with SAFE stability technology. SAFE has been the basis for enhancing many radio control experiences, including most recently the leading-edge performance of the Losi Promoto-MX with its MS6X stabilization technology. Additionally, Horizon’s Smart ecosystem has made hobbyists’ accessories like batteries and chargers safer and more intelligent.

“Marking this anniversary, we honor the ‘Horizonites’ who have fueled our journey and the breakthroughs that have defined our industry,” said Chris Dickerson, President and CEO of Horizon Hobby. “It’s a reminder to approach the future with the same energy and vision that built our foundation—delivering exceptional customer experiences, championing innovation, and nurturing passion for the hobby. Our purpose has always been to inspire dreams and create memories, grounded in our values of self-motivation, innovation, teamwork, and customer focus.”

The foundation laid in a Champaign basement now supports a worldwide audience united by the joy of RC and the memories made along the way. Today, Horizon Hobby is an international leader with more than 400 employees and operations in the United States, the UK, China, and Germany. We remain committed to delivering exciting new RC experiences, focusing on leading-edge flying and driving technology, superior customer service, and incredible support every step of the way.