Tag Archives: Patrick Davidson

Virginia Airshow in Durban Returns: A Spectacular Aviation Extravaganza

After a decade-long hiatus since its last thrilling edition in July 2013, the Virginia Airshow in Durban made an electrifying comeback that left aviation enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. The highly anticipated event, meticulously organized by the Smoke on Go Foundation, delivered a day filled with awe-inspiring aerial displays and aviation excellence.

Educational Outreach by the South African Air Force

Leading up to the airshow, the South African Air Force took the initiative to enlighten the youth by hosting an informative workshop for local schools on the Friday before the show. The program aimed to educate eager learners about various facets of the South African Air Force and potential career opportunities in the military, setting the stage for an inspiring weekend of aviation exploration.

A Dazzling Start with Skydiving Thrills

The eagerly awaited airshow commenced with a breathtaking spectacle as daring skydivers from the Durban Skydive Centre leaped from an Aerospatiale SA-341G Gazelle helicopter. Durban’s favorable summer weather conditions, coupled with a stiff breeze, added an extra layer of excitement to their high-speed landings. The team of skydivers, including Vernon Kloppers, Bob Simpson, Michael Nyman, and Dave Ladell, captivated the audience with their fearless jumps.

Marksmen Aerobatic Team Sets the Bar High

The first aerobatic performance of the day was brought to the audience by the exceptional Marksmen Aerobatic Team. Led by Mark Hensman (in an Extra 300 borrowed from Elton Bondi) and featuring Eugene du Preez and Johnie Smith (both in Extra 330’s) , the team displayed impeccable precision with their tight formations and a mind-boggling “koeksister” routine that left spectators in awe.

Diverse Displays and Thrilling Acts

The action-packed program continued with a diverse lineup of aircraft and pilots, showcasing the rich tapestry of aviation talent. Notable performances included Dave Mandel’s captivating display of the Aero L-39 Albatros, the historic 3-ship De Havilland Chipmunk formation, and Andrew Blackwood-Murray’s mesmerizing aerobatics in the Nashua-sponsored Extra 300LP.

Juba Joubert’s Helicopter Mastery

Juba Joubert, with his distinguished military flying background, took to the skies in an Aerospatiale SA-341G Gazelle, defying gravity with breathtaking helicopter maneuvers that earned him thunderous applause from the mesmerized crowd.

Scully Levin’s Graceful Cirrus SR-22

Scully Levin, at the controls of the beautiful blue Cirrus SR-22, demonstrated the remarkable capabilities of this small aircraft, adding a touch of elegance to the day’s festivities.

Raptors Display Team and the Van’s RV-7 Duo

The Raptors Display Team, led by Trevor Warner and featuring Ryan Beeton, wowed the audience with their two-ship display of Van’s RV-7 aircraft. Their agility and precision in the skies were truly impressive.

South African Air Force’s Spectacular Operations Demonstration

One of the highlights of the day was the South African Air Force’s operations demonstration of the MBB/Kawasaki BK-117. Piloted by Major Jared “Gizmo” Oliver, an experienced pilot with a distinguished track record, and assisted by Flight Sergeant Coert Steynberg, this dynamic duo showcased the BK117’s versatility and prowess.

Their demonstration included daring hoisting capabilities, where they lowered two individuals from the helicopter before smoothly lifting around 400 kilograms of barrels as cargo, maneuvering it skillfully in a circuit under the helicopter. The BK117 then transitioned to a search and rescue scenario, efficiently loading a “patient” using the rear cargo doors. A breathtaking moment occurred when they executed a ground-skidding maneuver, ensuring rapid and secure deployment of soldiers or medics in challenging situations where landing is not an option.

The display concluded with a thrilling game of hide and seek, as the helicopter “popped up” behind the hedges and disappeared rapidly—a testament to the crew’s precision and mastery of their aircraft.

Participating in this extraordinary demonstration was Captain Matthew “Sabre” Allan, who earlier this year showed exemplary bravery and skill by taking control of an Oryx helicopter after the Commander was wounded and the Flight Engineer killed by a sniper, whilst on operations in the DRC, ultimately flying them back to safety.

Patrick Davidson’s Heart-Pounding Performance

Red Bull-sponsored Patrick Davidson took center stage once more, piloting the Game Composites GB1 Gamebird. His high-energy aerobatic maneuvers left spectators breathless, showcasing his exceptional skills.

Roger Deare’s Spectacular Flight in the Hollywood Bets Activation

The excitement continued as Roger Deare took to the skies in his Extra 300L (ZS-OLR), beautifully adorned in Hollywood Bets colors to promote the online Aviator Game. Engaging the audience even further, selected spectators were invited to participate by guessing the altitudes at which Roger was flying, with exciting prizes awaiting the lucky winners.

Once the guessing game concluded, Roger Deare treated the crowd to a captivating aerobatic sequence, leaving everyone in awe of his piloting skills and the sheer power of the aircraft.

Airlink’s Remarkable Showcase of the Embraer 195

Airlink took center stage with an impressive demonstration featuring the Embraer 195AR (ZS-YDE). Piloted by the skilled duo of Jaco Henning and Dean Nicholas, this performance stood out as one of the most outstanding displays of a commercial airliner at an airshow. The aircraft, adorned in a striking black livery to promote Airlink’s Skybucks program, executed a series of thrilling low flypasts that elicited thunderous applause and enthusiastic cheers from the captivated crowd.

L-39C Jet Trainer

The sleek and high-performance L-39C jet trainer from Czechoslovakia graced the skies once again, delighting spectators with its impressive capabilities.

Andrew Blackwood-Murray’s Aerial Artistry

Andrew Blackwood-Murray took to the skies in his Extra 300, delivering a mesmerizing aerobatic routine that left the crowd in awe.

Beech 18 Graceful Performance

The Beech 18 (ZS-OIJ) from Beech Aircraft Corporation, skillfully flown by Flippie Vermeulen and his son Ben, showcased the aircraft’s graceful and agile flight characteristics.

Marksmen Aerobatic Team Thrills

The Marksmen Aerobatic Team returned to the stage, wowing the audience with their spectacular and precise maneuvers.

South African Air Force’s BK117 Display

The South African Air Force demonstrated the remarkable capabilities of the BK117, piloted by Major Corrie “Serrano” Oberholzer and Flight Sergeant Coert Steynberg, in a high-energy display that left the crowd spellbound.

The Flying Lions’ Harvard Extravaganza

The Flying Lions, featuring Scully Levin, Arnie Meneghelli, Ellis Levin, and Sean Thackwray, took to the skies in their Harvard aircraft, delivering a graceful and thrilling aerobatic display.

Durban Skydive Centre Parachute Demonstration

Adding another dimension of excitement, the Durban Skydivers Center staged another thrilling parachute demonstration. Performers Roy Steemson, Michael Nyman, Alan Hosmer (in the Capital Sounds canopy), and Dave Ladell descended gracefully from the skies, their ascent provided by none other than the Gazelle helicopter.

Raptors Display Team’s Agile Maneuvers

The Raptors Display Team returned with their Van’s RV-7 aircraft (ZU-FLV and ZU-EYP), led by the expert hand of Trevor Warner, a B737 training captain with FlySafair. The second aircraft was skillfully flown by Ryan Beeton. Their agile aircraft executed a series of exhilarating aerobatic maneuvers that held the audience in rapt attention.

Patrick Davidson’s Heart-Pounding Performance

Red Bull-sponsored Patrick Davidson once again took center stage, piloting the Game Composites GB1 Gamebird. With the same high-energy enthusiasm, he continued to thrill the crowd with his breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers, leaving spectators both thrilled and amazed. Patrick’s skills at handling the aircraft were on full display, with maneuvers so dizzying that they left onlookers in awe of his precision and control.

The Flying Lions’ Grand Finale

As the sun began to set, the Flying Lions graced the skies with their signature “flat” display sequence, famously known as the sunset display. The team, comprising Scully Levin, Arnie Meneghelli, Ellis Levin, and Sean Thackwray, maneuvered their Harvards with precision and flair, reminding everyone of the golden era of aviation.

Engaging Commentary and Gratitude

Throughout the event, excellent and entertaining commentary was provided by Brian Emmenis and his team from Capital Sounds, enhancing the spectator experience.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the organizers, Smoke on Go, and the dedicated teams that ensured the safety and well-being of all attendees. This included Durban Fire, Durban Metro, Durban SAPS, NSRI, SAP Divers, SAP Rescue, Netcare 911, SA Navy Divers, SAAF, Creative Media, Capital Sounds, ATNS, ASSA, IPS Security Company, all the Marshalls, and of course the Vendors for keeping everyone supplied with food and refreshments.

With this triumphant return, the Virginia Airshow in Durban is poised to become a staple in the airshow circuit once again, promising even greater spectacles in the years to come. Aviation enthusiasts and the local community alike eagerly await the next thrilling edition of this spectacular event.

South Africa’s Sea Furys- Where are they now?

How fast can you go!

Reigning World Champion to set another South African record (Note this was the Durban Virginia Airshow which took place in 2006)

Glen Dell(RIP) , current Advanced World Aerobatic Champion, South African Airways Captain and Red Bull sponsored pilot, is set to establish a South African airspeed record on Friday the 7th July by flying a point to point distance of 400km or more in the shortest possible time recorded.

Air to Air with John Sayers Sea Fury

Glen will take off from Rand Airport in Johannesburg in a Hawker Sea Fury flying via Heidelberg to Virginia Airport in Durban. Glen anticipates flying the route in about 53 minutes, similar to that of a Boeing 737 Jet aircraft.

The Hawker Sea Fury is the fastest piston engined aircraft ever built. This magnificent machine has impressive statistics such as a 2550hp, 18 cylinder, 57 litre Bristol Centaurus Engine, a height of 4.9 metres (16.1ft) and a maximum flying speed of 740km per hour.

SAAF Museum Airshow 2003
Picture by Malcom Reid

Not only has Glen logged an impressive amount of over 22 000 flying hours on various aircraft and helicopters but in addition Glen holds another record, that of being the only South African to ever win the Advanced World Aerobatic Championship title.

John Sayers Sea Fury tucked away in a hanger

Glen’s deep passion for flying and specially that of aerobatics shows not only in his utter enjoyment of being in the “drivers” seat of an aerobatic aircraft, performing breathtaking manoeuvres, but also in his skilful handling of a commercial Boeing Jetliner flying people of all walks of life to various destinations.

Visitors to this years Durban Airshow will truly enjoy the awesome, precise displays by Glen, one of the most talented pilots in the world.

The Hawker Sea Fury was a British fighter aircraft designed and manufactured by Hawker Aircraft. It was the last propeller-driven fighter to serve with the Royal Navy, and one of the fastest production single reciprocating engine aircraft ever built.

During the glory days when warbirds we a many in South Africa at the time, there were two airworthy flying Sea Fury flying in South African Skies, one aircraft that belonged to John Sayers and the other being based down in Port Elizabeth flown by Stu Davidson.

John Sayers Sea Fury ZU-SEA
Picture by Malcom Reid
Stu Davidsons Sea Fury ZU-WOW
Picture by Pete van Der Spek
Stu Davidsons Sea Fury ZU-WOW and promoting the back the Pacific Heros Playstation Game!
Stu Davidsons current and still operating down in the Port Alfred Area of the Eastern Cape!

Today the only flying example of the Hawker Sea Fury is Stu Davidsons second Sea Fury after selling his previous Sea Fury overseas.

Before that John Sayers also sold his Sea Fury, but has still got a good collection of aircraft at his private Airfield near Brits, including a T28 Trojan, Beechcraft Staggerwing and many more exotic aircraft in his possession!

The Ex Pat Sea Furys are regulars on the airshow circuit in Europe and Australia as we believe.

What a treat it will be to see the last surviving Sea Fury roar through the skies at a airshow in South Africa. George and Stellenbosch Airshow, maybe you will be in luck!

Klerksdorp Airshow 2019

Country Airshows in South Africa definitely make you hungry as you arrive at the smaller airports such as Klerksdorp to the smell of boerie Wors rolls and pannekoek among the crowds. This show was quite different to others shows in the country as the SA National Aerobatic Championships had been taking place days before the show and ending on show day. Airshow followers were able to see the competition side of aerobatics plus an airshow to top it off. Read more on the aerobatics competition here

Airshow Crowd Line

The morning of the 22 June 2019,the final day for some of the competitors taking part in the national aerobatic champs was underway. By mid afternoon the airshow was underway by Team Extreme under the leadership of Nigel Hopkins, who also won the national aerobatic champs in the unlimited category. The Western Transvaal Classic Car club were also present with a number of classic cars on display. Lt Colonel Francois ‘Hose’ Hanekom and Klerksdorp aerobatic pilot local Cliff Lotter kept a good eye on Proceedings of the show. Capital Sounds provided sound and commentary for the large crowds and kept them entertained with information on pilots and aircraft. An RC Sbach was also put through its paces, that showing how it could hover centimetres off the ground.

Team Extreme
. The Western Transvaal Classic Car Club
Cliff Lotter climbing into his YAK55
RC Sbach 342

The Randolph sponsored Boeing Stearman flown by Ivan Van Der Schaar flew next on the program,while the freestyle aerobatics coloum continued with Barrie Eles,Nigel Hopkins,Patrick Davidson,Mark Hensman and Mark Sampson.

Boeing Stearman
Extra 330SC Barrie Eles
Extra 330SC Nigel Hopkins
Patrick Davidson in his Gamebird
MX2 Mark Hensman
ZU-XAX
Sbach 341 Mark Sampson

Master Power Technologies Menno Parsons brought both his Swiss Pilatus PC12 and P51D ‘Mustang Sally’. This was the first display for the Mustang at Klerksdorp. The Goodyear Eagles Pitts S2Bs gave their polished high energy display led by Glen Warden who also flew his Slick 360 in the aerobatic competition.

Pilatus PC12
P51D ‘Mustang Sally’
Goodyear Eagles Pitts S2Bs

The Puma Energy Flying Lions Harvard’s put on a three ship display, led by Scully Levin,Arnie Meneghelli and Sean Thackwary. Followed on by Andrew Blackwood Murray in his Nashua Extra 300LP.The Raptors RVs flew a four ship display also led by Nigel Hopkins. A jet powered glider was put through its paces, not something you see at airshows in South Africa that often.

Puma Flying Lions Harvard
Nashua Extra 300LP
Raptors RVs

Henley Air provided helicopter flights at the show in one of their Bell 206 Jet Rangers. A solo RV7 display by Trevor Warner before one of the best displays of the day was the three ship Yak 55 display with tight formation aerobatics flown by Nigel Hopkins, Jason Beamish and Mark Hensman.

Henley Air Bell 206
RV7
Yak 55 Formation

Klerksdorp Airshow, an Airshow arranged and ran by Pilots and what a good show this was!
Well done to the pilots and organisers for putting a show together in limited time, a big thanks to Werner Kruger from DJA Aviation Insurance for your hospitality during the show. Hope to see a show next year in the North West Province once again.

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SA National Aerobatic Championships- Klerksdorp 2019

The South African National Aerobatic Championships took place at the P.C Pelser Airport in Klerksdorp Airport in the North West Province. The event started on the 19 June to the 22nd June 2019. The familiar duck dances seen by pilots before strapping themselves into their aircraft as they went through their sequences before entering the imaginary box in the sky.
Read more on the Klerksdorp Airshow 2019 here…

Barrie Eeles before his slot

Klerksdorp Airport provides a number of convenient runways both tar and gravel, for most aerobatic taildragger aircraft, which made it easy access for aircraft flying in and out during the course of the week from Gauteng Airfields and other neighboring provinces.

South African Weather reports did say a nasty cold front was to make landfall over the weekend of the end of the nationals and airshow, but luckily enough we were blessed with all days of the championships having clear skies, hot temperatures and cold nights, while overnighting aircraft were tucked away in hangers and not having to clear frost off canopy’s.

Slick 360

Sportsman

 1Chris JoubertZlin 50ZS-OKZ1113.591120.121231.201552.285017.2083.620
 2Johan Van SolmsPittsZS-MZY1028.301065.541189.221433.684716.7478.612
 3Machiel Du PleesRV 7ZU-WMW1033.731070.341155.831427.094686.9978.116
 4Jonty EsserYak 52ZU-DSI995.201036.501147.411427.744606.8576.781
 5Alex CaigeZlin 50ZS-OKZ995.201010.361103.461389.244498.2674.971
 6Tobie KockYak 52ZU-DSI973.01735.711064.03727.983500.7358.346
Yak 52

Intermediate

Rank Pilot Aeroplane Registration Totals O/all %
 1Steve BrownSlick 360ZU-DXX1906.761831.431934.912362.588035.6981.663
 2Glen WardenSlick 360ZU-MDA1825.711657.922089.262353.457926.3480.552
 3Jason BeamishExtra 330LXZS-EXT1795.331716.881988.352271.837772.4078.988
 4Dustin HughesZlin 50ZS-OKZ1801.031796.321874.032273.377744.7578.707
 5Andrew Blackwood-MurrayExtra 300ZS-AEC1725.191635.071889.842233.107483.2076.049
 6Trevor WarnerPittsZU-WIZ1640.641536.591902.541994.807074.5771.896
 7Roger DeareExtra 300ZS-OLR1706.58633.801751.491145.765237.6453.228
Pitts S2E

Advanced

 Rank Pilot Aeroplane Registration Totals O/all %
 1Eugene Du PreezExtra 330SCZS-THS2853.902673.313026.413248.5111802.1382.590
 2Gary GlassonPitts FalconZU-FTP2875.322653.212992.353194.4411715.3281.983
 3Mark SampsonXA41ZU-XAX2763.752620.262541.233186.8011112.0577.761
 4Pierre Du PlooyGiles 202ZU-ZOZ2771.102239.032827.113131.0910968.3276.755
 5Adam PucjlowskiZlin 50ZS-OKZ2511.372049.562775.482976.0810312.4972.166
 6Cliff LotterYak 55ZU-EHZ2612.531852.622767.892571.769804.8068.613
 7Kayle WoollExtra 300ZS-BDE2542.002131.352809.852249.579732.7668.109
 8Andrew FletcherZlin 50ZU-ZLN2509.931577.462361.062479.338927.7862.476
Giles 202

Unlimited

 Rank Pilot Aeroplane Registration Totals O/all %
 1Nigel HopkinsExtra 330SCZS-XSC3906.924266.464116.864404.6216694.8682.281
 2Patrick DavidsonGamebirdN536GC3892.814215.823995.544480.3716584.5481.737
 3Barrie EelesExtra 330SCZS-XBE3856.053785.783962.484271.0615875.3678.242
Patrick Davidson in his brand new Redbull Gamebird

Freestyle

 Rank Pilot Aeroplane Registration 4m Free Totals O/all %
 1Nigel HopkinsExtra 330SCZS-XSC3409.973409.9785.249
 2Barrie EelesExtra 330SCZS-XBE3118.773118.7777.969
 3Patrick DavidsonGamebirdN536GC2990.312990.3174.758
 4Mark HensmanMX2N540MX2950.142950.1473.754
 5Mark SampsonXA41ZU-XAX2712.862712.8667.822
Nigel Hopkins in his Extra 330SC

Judges for the SAC 2019 National Championships. Note far backward position on chairs as not to strain the judge’s necks while looking up at the acrobatic box – Cellphone photos by Jonty Esser

A big congratulations goes to the Klerksdorp Airport, Competitors and Annie Boon, Contest Chief Judge John Gaillard, Scoring Director Natalie Stark. Judges John Gaillard, Quintin Hawthorne, Mike Stark, Johnnie Smith and Cindy Weber.

Cliff Lotter and Annie Boon

Also a huge thank you to Annie Boon and Cliff Lotter for Keeping Aviation Central up to date during the Champs, Jonty Esser for sending us Photos and videos to share on our Facebook page.

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Aero Club of South Africa 2018 Awards

Aero Club of South Africa 2018 Awards

Aero_Club_100_LogoThe past weekend the Aero Club of South Africa hosted their annual Awards dinner in a stunning Black-tie event hosted at the Wanderers Club, this where the Aero Club awards all that excelled in the Year or over a prolonged period. To the Airshow loving public this is where they announce the top 3 airshows of the year!

Awards Dinner 2018

The Top 3 airshows for 2018 are:

In 3rd Place FAW Ermelo Air Show

Ermelo Airshow

Photo Credit: Mark Mansfield – M³ Media

Ermelo Aeronautical Society was the first airshow of the 2018 season. The officials went out of their way to accommodate those professional photographers. The overall logistical management of fuel and smoke oil, air traffic control, spectators, vendors, sponsors, the large beer garden tent and of course the participating pilots was outstanding. The pre-show documentation was high quality. This was an excellent day of exciting entertainment as the display pilots excelled to keep the crowds on their feet and cheering with delight. As an outlying town on the air show circuit the Ermelo team went beyond the normal call of duty to earn this airshow a place among three best in South Africa.

2nd place Rand Airshow

Rand Airshow 2018

Photo Credit: Garth Carlitz – Flightline Weekly

The annual Rand Airport Airshow is known to be one of the bigger shows on the circuit. Not only in footprint but also in the offering to the public. The complexity of the layout in terms of airspace and other logistics is a challenge to any organiser. The Rand team have managed to capture this winning formula to near perfection. Crowd numbers is proof of this concept. A line-up of participants can’t wait to be part of this event to entertain the crowds. A wide variety of stalls compliment the crowd area with plenty of opportunity to view static display and other aviation related stalls. Despite the economic constrains in South Africa, the Rand Air Show management continue their support and commitment to host a show of such magnitude and maintain the world class standards in the flying displays. The Rand show has become a “landmark” on the SA calendar.  The show style and presentation of the airshow programme are aligned with world class standards.

We at Aviation Central is proud to be part of this as we ran the official Facebook page for The Rand Airshow 2018 and we will be running the Facebook page again in 2019 for the Rand Airshow

1st place Lowveld Airshow

The Kishugu Lowveld airshow started with early morning action in the sky from early morning with the launch of several hot air balloons to well after sunset with the night formation flight of the Puma Energy Flying Lions, followed by incredible fireworks display and a rock band on the airside. A very first in South Africa.

With a good mix of military aircraft, including the Gripen, two Airlink Embraer E195 displays, Working on Fire Huey helicopters and water bombers, the brand new to South Africa magnificent Blackhawk helicopter as well as a fantastic line-up of individual display aircraft and aerobatics teams this was an airshow to remember. The general layout of operational matters and the professional handling of the pre-show planning, post-show debrief to ensure continuity and identify areas of improvement is a huge contributing factor to ensure a place amongst the top three air show in South Africa.


Most Enthusiastic Flying Club

2nd Place for the Most Enthusiastic Flying Club award is presented to

 Brakpan Aero Club

One of the older flying clubs, founded in 1928, it has been continuously active especially with training since Sluggy started instructing in 1963. They now own the airfield and have upgraded the facilities to make it a destination of choice for the $100 breakfast. The overall enthusiasm is demonstrated in hosting the Safety First Aviator presentations and continuing to find reasons to celebrate aviation such as a Womens Day or a Bi-plane day, or even a Cessna Day.

1st Place for the most enthusiastic Flying Club award is presented to

Ermelo Aeronautical Society

Their general enthusiasm is demonstrated throughout the year in their activities, from a willingness to host the PTAR, to organising distinguished guest speakers, to being an early participant in African Pilots Flying Club articles. They boast about 60 members, and 35 aircraft. But it is there enthusiasm and support for Aero Club activities that we celebrate tonight.


Don Tilley Trophy

The Don Tilley Trophy is presented to Nigel Musgrave for his significant Contribution to Safety in Aviation
Nigel has been an ASSA Accredited Safety Officer for more than 10 years. He was the Chief Safety Officer at the President’s Trophy Air Race since 2016, the Designated Safety Officer for EAA Chapter 322 and of EAA of South Africa for at least 4 years. Nigel has acted as Safety Officer for numerous air shows, fly-ins, air races, rally and other Aeroclub member organisation flying events at many centres all around South Africa. He works tirelessly at all these events. Nigel also assists the flying clubs, AeCSA member organisations in the tedious process for all pre-event and post event documentation required. Without doubt, Nigel’s dedication has been a major factor in enhancing flight safety. Most often, Nigel Musgrave’s oversight costs him financially on most occasions when he carries out Safety Officer duties.


Dennis Jankelow Trophy

The Dennis Jankelow Trophy is presented to Sean Russell for exceptional airmanship. It is not often that we award someone who steals an aircraft.

Our candidate DID actually steal a motorglider at the age of 12, and sent himself solo in the process. He invited a friend to join him in running away from home in Cape Town, to see his mum in Johannesburg. He was most successful in this venture arriving safely at Robertson to refuel, where his conscience and the practical aspects of the adventure finally overtook him. He elected to return the plane and took off back for Cape Town which would have too been successful other than an unseen three wire fence in the forced landing ground following a genuine engine failure (it was not caused by fuel starvation). Buy him a beer and you can hear the full story that was much publicised in 1988. He went on to fly fixed and rotary wings rather successfully and is a recreational aviation enthusiast still after some near 8,500 hours. Sean Russell is currently the chief test pilot for The Airplane Factory, producers of the magnificent Sling series of aircraft. When not flying for TAF you can find him tugging gliders for fun on his days off. But that is not why we celebrate Sean Russell tonight. In April of this year Sean noticed that a fellow aviator was attempting to land at Tedderfield without his nose landing gear extended. He quickly ran to a radio and advised the pilot to go around and the nature of the problem.  Whilst the pilot flying around nearby, Sean quickly grabbed a plane to assist – he did not steal it this time. Despite advising the pilot to pull G and a close visual inspection by Sean they were unsuccessful in getting the nose gear to deploy. Then the pilots radio began failing, the pilot could only agree to commands via clicking. Sean assessed the situation and took action against pilot overload, failing communications, lack of emergency services all compounded by diminishing fuel and daylight. He directed the pilot to fly in formation with him to Rand Airport where there were full emergency services. He then advised Rand of the problem, declared an emergency on behalf of the pilot and escorted him in formation all the way to finals. We can celebrate that the landing was without injury. Sean then flew overhead to ensure all was well and flew back to Tedderfield.  He considers this willingness to help a fellow aviator in distress just a normal thing, totally unworthy of any attention. And that in itself, shows just what we are celebrating tonight. A display of exceptional and exemplary airmanship, care for a fellow aviator in need and expert assistance without reward.  Sean is a very worthy recipient of this award, so long as he does not steal any more planes!


James Gilliland Trophy

The James Gilliland Trophy is presented to Patrick Davidson for the most meritorious feat over the past year.
In 2018, Patrick Davidson became the first pilot from South Africa to fly in the Challenger Class in the Red Bull Air Race. Although a newcomer to the Red Bull Air Race, he achieved a 2nd place on the Podium in Kazan in Russia, and a third place on the podium in Indianapolis in the United States.
Patrick says “I feel that becoming a part of the Red Bull Air Race is one of the highest accolades that an aerobatic pilot could dream of. This is a different kind of flying and I would like to learn as much as I can, but having the personality that I have, I also want to achieve as best I can! It is an awesome privilege and an honour for me to fly the South African flag in this sport.”  Read more on this great man here 


SA Eagle Trophy

The SA Eagle trophy is presented to Aldo Vos for the Most meritorious achievement at in international event
Aldo (age 15) participated for the first time at the FAI F3J World Championship for Model Gliders, only 18 months after he started flying competitively. Through his dedication, skill, and competitive drive, he improved his skills through the many training sessions, by the experienced seniors of the team. By evaluating himself against the seasoned senior pilots due to a lack of junior competition, he inadvertently pushed himself to a very high standard. After 14 rounds at the world championships, he made the fly-offs. Under lots of pressure he stayed calm and consistently flew well through the 6 rounds of finals and achieved a FAI Silver Medal. This performance is well worth a most meritorious achievement award, and we wish him all the best for his flying future.


PGS Trophy

The PGS Trophy is presented to Bat Hawk South Africa for its significant contribution to Manufacture or Design in South African Aviation.
The Bat Hawk is a proudly South African “Light Sport Aircraft” designed and built by Micro Aviation in Nelspruit. The aircraft is supplied as a complete ready to fly aircraft and complies with the ASTM2245 Build Standard rules and regulations as well as South African Civil Aviation Type Approval. It features a strut-braced high-wing, a two-seats-in-side-by-side configuration open cockpit, fixed tricycle landing gear and a single Rotax engine in tractor configuration. It is a conventional 3-axis light sport aircraft with unrivalled STOL capabilities and out-of-cockpit visibility. The Bat Hawk proudly plays a major role in the attempt to combat Rhino and Elephant Poaching in Africa.


Silver Wings

Silver Wings

Silver Wings are presented to an Aero Club member for an exceptional project to further the goals of the Aero Club of South Africa.

Richardt was instrumental in making Aero Club’s Airweek 2018 a success, by personally making use of his facilities, aircraft and financial support. He ensured that wherever a problem was raised, he stepped in to find a pragmatic solution that prevented Aero Club from having to absorb significant costs. He went further by personally making a donation to the Transformation and Development teams expenses. And there is more, he provided rides in his jet at cost to himself to ensure that Aero Club was not out of pocket. His enthusiasm and support for all Aero Club members is truly noteworthy.

Kevin Storie for an exceptional project to further the goals of the Aero Club of South Africa.
This award is given to Kevin not for a single project but for his continual passionate behind-the-scenes support of Aero Club in various projects. Such support has not always been popular, but it has been conducted with a clear focused goal to create a stronger and better Aero Club across all its sections, for all its members. He has worked tirelessly to ensure that the recreational aviator remains able to pursue their freedom without undue costs and regulatory impediments. Whilst it is true that Kevin started many of these projects whilst being an employee of the Aero Club, he has continued his efforts and support well beyond his tenure with passionate determination.

Marie Reddy for an exceptional project to further the goals of the Aero Club of South Africa.
In every organisation you get someone who sits quietly and often their exceptional deeds possibly go unnoticed. They are often the first to help in a crisis and get the job done. Silver Wings are awarded for exceptional service for a particular project for the benefit of Aero Club members, but in this instance it would be hard to identify one, but we can name a few – FAI Conference bid proposal for 2020 (which we withdrew from due to finally establishing that the costs exceed the potential benefits), overall 2020 Centenary Planning , the 2017 Awards dinner and tonight’s function. Marie Reddy is a constant supporter of Aero Club efforts often at huge personal cost who over-delivers and is a pleasure to deal with, making her a real asset to our club.


Gold Wings

Gold Wings

Nigel Musgrave for 10 years continuous contribution to Sport Aviation in South Africa.
Nigel Musgrave has been an AeCSA Member for 13 years and has been a major contributor to flight safety during this time as an ASSA Accredited Safety Officer. Nigel used to fly his own microlight aircraft but no longer pursues this activity.
He is a gentleman and an asset to the Aero Club of South Africa

Rowena Kraidy for 10 years continuous contribution to Sport Aviation in South Africa.
Don’t let her size fool you because “dynamite definitely comes in small packages”! Skydiver, Balloonist, Microlighter, PPL’er, Instructor,
Administrator, Mother and wife, golfer … Rowena’s recreational aviation involvement began in 1985 when she started running the Grahamstown Parachute Club.
In 1988 her aviation career and interest in aviation began when she won a complete skydiving rig on a raffle at the Swakopmund Christmas Boogie.
The Grahamstown Parachuting Club became Eastern Province Skydivers in 1989 which she ran together with her husband, Deon, for 13 years boasting
with an impeccable safety record. During this time, she got her PPL and accumulated over 1000 skydives and dedicated her time to teaching skydiving.

For a period of 10 years, she acted as a skydiving judge of her life to judging skydiving at both national and international skydiving competitions in
Switzerland, France, Turkey, Australia and the USA. She established Leading Edge Flight School in 1995. She is passionate about teaching.
Training started initially on weight shift microlights and then progressed to conventionally controlled microlights and light sport Aeroplanes.
In 2002 she relocated the school to Hoedspruit and found that she was a little closer to the action in Gauteng and started getting more involved.
Rowena was first elected to the MISASA Committee in 2008 as the Technical representative, a portfolio she has held and managed till today.
She has diligently served on the Aero Club Approved Person Technical Committee for the past 10 years. She was very involved with the startup
of RAASA in 2008 as a consultant assisting to draft many of the regulations and documents. She has personally sacrificed valuable time away
from home to be involved with the RAASA run Project 24 as the Secretariat and has served as a member of the board of Aero Club of South Africa
since 2013. She currently holds an A-grade instructor’s rating.
A deserved award for Rowena and thank her for her dedication, sacrifice and her immense contribution to MISASA

Gold Wings are presented to Nico Willemse for 10 years continuous contribution to Sport Aviation in South Africa.
Nico started his microlight flying career in 2000 under the instruction of Piet Junius on a Windlass Weightshift Controlled Microlight. He would
later purchase this aircraft. Johnty Esser did his final flight test. Most of Nico’s flying was done in the Potgietersrus area. Sadly the flight school
closed at Potties. Nico later did his PPL in Pietersburg but personally found the joys of microlights far outweighed fixed wing aircraft. He obtained
his instructors rating in Gauteng. He assisted several flight schools in the Johannesburg area as an instructor and in doing so accumulated many
logged hours but also valuable experience. He started his own school in 2013 and was the first RAASA Part 62 approved school. The school’s
He has trained several instructors, has a thriving school and trained students from as far as Namibia and Botswana. Limpopo Flight School
is a fully fledged ATO offering ground school, radio courses, online examination centre and flight training is done on a variety of trikes. There are
10 WCM’s to choose from. He currently has 18 students and a full waiting list for prospective aviators.Nico has accumulated over 6000 trike hours,
is a respected aviator and family man and a valuable member of the MISASA Committee. We thank him for his contribution.

Gold Wings are presented to Charlie Marais for 10 years continuous contribution to Sport Aviation in South Africa.
For his contribution to develop and facilitate the officials training courses for special air events in the Air show environment, now also been extended to other disciplines. He has been involved for the past 10 years in the ASSA discipline and also served as ASSA chairman previously. His knowledge and unconditional eagerness to help is an asset we need to acknowledge with the highest order in the Aero Club ”

Gold Wings are presented to Barrie Eeles for 10 years continuous contribution to Sport Aviation in South Africa.
Barrie started flying at the age of 17, and did his first solo at 11hours, achieved his PPL in 1986, and started flying Aerobatics in April 2005.
Barrie has been a very active member of the SAC committee since 2008, serving as Chairman for 2 of those years. In addition to all the normal duties of the SAC committee, Barrie has very successfully organised special training camps, and has coached numerous pilots in aerobatics. Barrie is very passionate about the sport of Aerobatics and is always willing to find new ways to encourage new pilots into the sport. He has often taken on the role of contest director, and organiser at our local aerobatic contests.
Barrie is a very focussed competitor, and as such he has won several National championship titles in the various categories as he has grown in the sport. He was Sportsman National Champion in 2007, Advanced National Champion in 2012, and represented SA at the World Advanced Aerobatic Championships in 2010, 2012, and 2014.
In 2010 he was part of the very successful South African Advanced Aerobatic Team who won the silver medal for South Africa. Barrie has been awarded full national colours for Aerobatics no less than four times. He currently flies in the Unlimited Class and has also represented SA at this level in 2017.

Barrie Eeles is an integral part of the SAC committee and we value his support and commitment to the SAC.

Gold Wings are presented to Elton Bondi for 10 years continuous contribution to Sport Aviation in South Africa.
Elton Bondi learnt to fly in Zimbabwe, when he was 17yrs old, and worked as a flying instructor in that country teaching 10 pilots to fly before he was himself 20yrs old. He has been flying competition and display aerobatics for over 10 years.
Elton has been a very active member of the SAC committee since 2008, serving as Chairman for 2 of those years. Charismatic as ever, Elton often quietly sorts things out behind the scenes. He has often assisted in organising our local contests, as well as being contest director a number of times. He played a pivotal role in the success of the 2017 World Aerobatics Championship, when it was hosted in South Africa, often spending numerous hours ensuring everything was in place.
Elton has won three national titles including the Advanced National aerobatic championship twice. He has senior Protea colours for representing South Africa twice in international Advanced aerobatic competitions.
Elton believes that aviation has the power to inspire people to be the best that they can. Flying requires self-discipline, tenacity, passion and most of all a huge dose of humility, all excellent traits which we believe Elton has.


Lewis Lang trophy

Lewis Lang Trophy is awarded to Russell Achterberg for Pilot of the Year.
Russell Achterburg – Won the paragliding world cup in Aksaray, Turkey 8-15 September 2018. Started paragliding in 2004 and has been part of the SA Paragliding team since 2011. For this gold medal performance, he is awarded our Pilot of the Year.


Life Time Achievement Award

The Life Time achievement award is presented to an Aero Club member who has been unfailing in his support for the last 30 years.

He has been a member of the SAC since the late 1970s
He used to be a competing pilot in the 1970s
He has captained several International SA teams during the 1980s
He has been SAC chief judge for over 2 decades
He has been world chief judge for over a decade
He has been a very active Director on the CIVA executive for over a decade
He pioneered the first World Advanced Aerobatic Championships in SA 20years ago.
He conceived and pioneered first World Intermediate Aerobatic Championships again in South Africa 5 years ago.
He was the catalyst for South Africa hosting the 2017 Unlimited World Championships, where he was the Contest Director.
He is often invited to be Chief Judge at the national contest of different countries (European, Australian, Brazilian)
And despite all this international acclaim the guys still find time to coach Sportsmen level pilots from time to time.
Basically, the man is a legend in Aerobatics and he is John Gaillard!
John Louis Gaillard has been involved with aerobatics since the 1970s.
He initially competed in a Stampe Biplane, and was sufficiently fortunate (and skilful) to have survived a catastrophic engine failure after take-off at the old Baragwaneth aerodrome.
Not deterred by this experience, John has continued to play a very active and leading role in aerobatics to this day.
By the 1980s John had captained the South Africa team at a number of world championships. He also became very proficient at judging local contests, and was soon invited to judge at international events.
A particularly testing moment occurred internationally when John called a zero score for an incorrectly flown figure by a very popular leading pilot, none of the other judges saw the error and hence all scored the pilot highly, this made John even more unpopular. Even under significant pressure John refusing to back down on what he saw to be true. A subsequent review of the video recording proved John to be correct. From this moment onwards Johns reputation as a fair and precise judge grew enormously and he was soon appointed as the World Chief Judge, a title he holds to this day. There is hardly an international aerobatic contest that John is not invited to oversee as the chief judge.
John is so well recognised across the world, that he is often invited to be the Chief Judge at the National Championships of other nationals and to train their judges. John has judged aerobatics in North America, South America, throughout West, Central and Eastern Europe, China, Australia and of course in South Africa.
In addition to judging John is also the South African representative on CIVA, the FAI body responsible for overseeing aerobatics internationally.
John has personally pioneered two world firsts in aerobatics which have gone on to become fixed and very popular events in the international aerobatics calendar. Prior to 1995, international aerobatic competition only occurred at the Unlimited level. John pioneered and successfully organised the very first international contest at the Advanced level which was hosted in Cape Town in 1995. The Advanced class have been competing internationally ever since.
And in 2013 John again pioneered the first international contest at the Intermediate level which was again organised by John and successfully hosted in Mossel Bay. To top this all John was the initiator and Contest Director at the successful 2017 Unlimited Aerobatics Contest held last year in Malelane.
Johns pioneering spirit is showing no signs of slowing down and he is part of a team looking to introduce a new more affordable class of aerobatics involving light sport aircraft and even electrically powered aircraft.
Despite his achievements and recognition internationally, John still enjoys and is very active judging at a small local regional contests. He even finds time to coach junior up and coming pilots from time to time. John has been the Chairman of the Sport Aerobatic Club several times and remains a member of the Executive Committee.
John has also played an important role in promoting safety in aerobatics in both the competition and airshow arenas. To this end he has authored a number of policy documents which govern the safety of airshow operations as well as the qualification of airshow pilots.
John has participated in Sport Aerobatics from all perspectives, as a competing pilot, as a judge, as an organiser and as an official. He is probably one of the most recognised and long standing names in aerobatics worldwide, and there can be no doubt that a large part of the success and stature that South Africa has achieved in world aerobatics can be accredited directly to John Gaillard.
John continues to receive the highest respect and recognition from his counterparts internationally. Not scared of confrontation, John is respected for his research, foresight and wisdom in addressing areas that others steer clear of and welcome his input. His international standing was recently highlighted at a recent FAI conference where his absence was noted with genuine concern and a display of respect by many.


National Colours and Special Acknowledgements

The South Africa Olympics Committee – SASCOC – only acknowledges participating competitors and their team managers by awarding them Springbok colours. Yet many sports require the support of others for competitions to actually take place. Aero Club acknowledges these whose dedication, commitment and sacrifice is equal to that of the competitors, and as necessary; by awarding their efforts with Special Acknowledgement Certificates.
Balloon and Airship Federation of South Africa (BAFSA)

Danie Minnaar and David Mac Gregor are awarded with Senior Protea Colours for participating in the 23rd FAI Hot Air Balloon Championships held at Austria from the 19th to the 25th of August 2018 and special Acknowledgement to the Crew who was Heinrich Hoffman, Jos Minnaar, Burger Minnaar.

Parachute Association of South Africa (PASA)

1. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Christopher Teague for participating in the 7th FAI World Championships of Canopy Piloting held at Wroclaw, Poland from the 2nd to the 7th of July 2018.
2. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Johannes Liebenberg for participating in the 2nd FAI World Wingsuit Flying Championship held at Prostejov, Czech Republic from the 26th to the 31st of August 2018.
3. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Bailey Edmunds, Bernard Janse van Rensburg, Carmen Edmunds, Ian van den Berge and Yolande van den Berge for participating in the 23rd FAI World Formation Skydiving Championship held at Goldcoast, Australia from the 6th to the 13th of October 2018.
4. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Bailey Edmunds, Claire King, Diederik Venter, Nicolaas Hickley for participating in the 3rd FAI World Cup of Indoor Skydiving held at Zallaq, Bahrain from the 25th to the 28th of October 2018.
5. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Matteo Pagani, Christopher Teague and Warren Hitchcock for participating in the 9th FAI World Cup of Canopy piloting 2017 held at Dubai, UAE from the 25th of November to the 2nd of December 2017.

Sport Aerobatic Club (SAC)

1. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Eugene du Preez and Leigh Le Gonidec for participating in the Advanced World Aerobatic Championships held at Ploiesti, Romania from the 15th to the 28th of August 2018 and Special Acknowledgement to Quintin Hawthorne, Johnnie Smith, Lazlo Liskay and John Gaillard for Judging the Championships.

South African Modelling Aircraft Association (SAMAA)

1. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Evert Scholtz and Keith Renecle for participating in the FAI F2 World Championships for Control Line Model Aircraft held at Landres, France from the 14th to the 19th of July 2018.
2. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Alan Smith, Craig Goodrum, Michelle Goodrum for participating in the FAI F3J World Championship for Model Gliders held at Ploiesti, Romania from the 22nd to the 28th of July 2018 and Junior Protea Colours to Aldo Vos for his participation in the F3J World Championships for Model Gliders.
3. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Alan Ball, Devon Barnett, Luke Bakke and Ruivan Branco for participating in the FAI F4U World Drone Racing Championships held at Shenzhen, China from the 1st to the 4th of November 2018. Junior Protea Colours to Jadon Churchman for his participation in the FAI F4U World Drone Racing Championships
4. Senior Protea Colours awarded to André Stockwell, Clinton Carter-Brown, Grant Brook and Roston Dugmore for participating in the F3A World Championship for Aerobatic Model Aircraft held at Villa Gesell, Argentina from the 5th to the 11th of November 2017.

South African Power flying Association (SAPFA)

1. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Caroline Eckard, Frank Eckard, Jonathan Esser, Martin Meyer, Mary de Klerk, Matthys van der Merwe, Rob Jonkers, Ronald Stirk and Sandra Goddard for participating in the 21st FAI World Rally Flying Championships held at Dubnica, Slovakia from the 5th to the 11th of August 2018, and Special Acknowledgement to Hans Schwebel for being the 1st International Judge, Ursula Schwebel, Jozef Jacobs and Barbara Frieboese who was the International Judges and Leon Bouttell who was the Judge Observer at this event.

Soaring Society of South Africa (SSSA)

1. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Attie Jonker, Dawid Pretorius, Uys Jonker, Nico Le Roux and Stephan van den Berg for participating in the Club, Standard and 15meter classes of the 35th FAI World Gliding Championships held at Ostrow, Poland from the 1st to the 7th of July 2018.
2. Senior Protea Colours awarded to Abraham Kotze, Carol Clifford, Laurens Goudriaan, Oscar Goudriaan and Uys Jonker for participating in the Open, 18meters and 20 meters, 2-seater classes of the 35th FAI World Gliding Championships held at Hosin, Czech Republic from the 28th of July to the 12th of August 2018.

South African Hang and Paragliding Association (SAHPA)

1. Special Acknowledgement Certificates awarded to Andre Rainsford-Alberts, Andrew Smith, Jon Pio, Khobi-Jane Bowden, Russell Achterberg, Stephan Kruger, Theunis de Bruin for participating in the Paragliding World Cup Tour held at Aksaray, Turkey from the 8th to the 15th of September 2018.
FAI Continental record is presented to Bailey Edmunds,Carmen Edmunds, Ian van den Berge, Yolandi van den Berge and Bernard Janse van Rensburg for setting the new African record for parachuting in formation 4 Way and highest average for ten rounds with a performance of 14,4 points
FAI Continental record is presented with two Certificates to Hendri Liebenberg for setting the African Record for the greatest distance of 3.898 km and greatest speed 260.3 km/h

Special Recognition

1. Alard Hufner for winning the Icarus Trophy 2018.
The Icarus race is a 1000-mile, unsupported, cross country paramotor adventure race. This is you and your flying machine against the wilderness in the ultimate test of pilot skill and endurance, this is the world’s toughest air race which took place in Southern Africa in July 2018 and started on the 25th of July with 27 paramotorists taking to the skies just north of Johannesburg and took them across Botswana to finish near Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Alard completed the journey over a period of three days, 27 pilots from the UK, Europe, North and South America, South Africa and the Middle East made it to the finish line. Alard also won the shorter weekend-long-X-series event in April this year.
2. Christopher Teague for the splendid achievement on setting the African Canopy Piloting Record of 2.404 seconds over a 70meter carved speed at Wroclaw Poland on the 4th of July 2018. The previous record was 2,434 seconds also set by Christopher Teague on the 5th of April in 2015.
3. Naomi Kotzee for being invited to be part of the Vertical Elite Team to participate in the Vertical Formation World Parachute Record 2018 attempt held at Skydive Chicago, Ottawa, IL, USA from the 13th to the 18th of August 2018.
4. Bailey Edmunds, Nico Hickley, Claire King and Dirk Venter for achieving the great distinction and honour of representing South Africa in the sport of parachuting Indoor Formation Skydiving.
5. Middelburg Aero Club Team for successfully hosting the Aero Club Airweek 2018. The team accepted the challenge of hosting the Aero Club Airweek 2018 with enthusiasm and met every problem with a solution. This was a true team effort and it would be unfair to single out any person, however under the guidance of
Richardt Lovett, an excellent air meeting was achieved. The event was marred by imperfect weather but that should not discount the extraordinary efforts the team went to, in hosting the event.
6. Theunis De Bruin out of 278 pilots for winning the Nordic Open 2018, with a total score of 2507 in his Ozone Enzo 3 Glider the competition was held at Macedonia from the 26th of August to the 1st of September 2018.


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