NEA Hobbies – Jonesboro, Arkansas

I. Location Details:

• Name of Venue: NEA Hobbies
• Address: 5917 E. Johnson Ave., Jonesboro, AR 72401, USA
• Contact Information:
  • Phone: (870) 933-0479
  • Facebook: [NEA Hobbies Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/neahobbies) (Highly active for updates, schedules, and photos)
  • LiveRC (Track Page): [FORC Raceway :: LiveRC](https://forc.liverc.com/) (FORC Raceway is the name of their track for LiveRC purposes)
  • Email: neahobbies@gmail.com
• Operating Hours (General Hobby Shop & Practice):
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday – Friday: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Note: For race days, hours may vary, and practice might end earlier. Always check their Facebook page or LiveRC for the most current schedule.
• Type of Venue: Hobby Shop with Indoor RC Track

II. Track Information:

• Track Surface(s): Indoor Dirt Off-Road. The track is made of clay.
• Track Dimensions/Layout: Described as a “medium sized indoor clay offroad track.” Layouts are changed periodically to keep racing fresh.
• Authorized Scales: Primarily electric 1/10th scale off-road vehicles.
• Facilities/Amenities:
  • Indoor Pitting: Spacious pit area available for racers.
  • Drivers Stand: Elevated.
  • On-Site Hobby Shop: Yes, a large, well-stocked hobby shop.
  • Practice Access: You can come and practice on the track anytime during open hours.
  • Future Expansions: Plans have been mentioned for a new outdoor RC drag strip and a bash park with jumps and hazards (check their Facebook for updates on these projects).

III. Racing & Event Information:

• Race Program/Schedule: NEA Hobbies hosts regular races, especially during the cooler months (winter season).
  • They host local races nearly every weekend throughout the winter.
  • They also host three big regional events annually.
  • Upcoming races and details are typically posted on their Facebook page and LiveRC (FORC Raceway).
• Classes Raced: Focus on various 1/10th scale electric off-road classes. Specific classes would be announced per event.
• Race Fees/Practice Fees:
  • Full-day practice pass: $10 for adults, $5 for kids (as per a 2020 article, verify current pricing).

IV. Hobby Shop Information:

• Inventory/Specialties: NEA Hobbies is described as a large hobby shop with aisles of parts, kits, paint, glue, and everything needed for RC vehicles.
  • They are a Horizon Dealer and carry major brands.
  • The owner, Ross Tate, is known for his extensive knowledge and passion for RC.
• Services:
  • Sales and expert advice.
  • Setup and Repair Service.
  • Custom Build Service.
  • Rental Program (some sources indicate this is available).
  • Birthday Parties (listed as a service).
  • Spektrum Certified Retailer.
  • Early Access programs (Air, Crawler, Basher, Radio).
  • Ship to Store option.

V. User Reviews & Tips:

• Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff: Highly praised for their helpfulness, especially for beginners.
• Indoor Dirt Advantage: Provides a consistent racing surface year-round, unaffected by weather.
• Community: Known for fostering a welcoming RC community.
• Dress Warm in Winter: The building with the track is reportedly not air-conditioned, so dress appropriately for winter racing.
• Check Facebook/LiveRC: Always the best source for current schedules, layout changes, and event information.