Fall evokes lots of memories for us each year; thoughts of shopping for back to school clothes, wearing shoes after months of bare feet and sandals, watching the leaves change, planning for upcoming holidays, looking forward to cooler days – or missing those hot sizzles of summer days, and hitting the books to study for upcoming exams.
Mid-Atlantic Teams in the Air Race Classic
Summer flying memories don’t fade fast – they bring back some of my fondest thoughts as the air chills. I became the proud ¼ share owner of a Lockwood Air Cam this summer; a unique open cockpit twin- engine airplane that is more fun than an amusement park ride but, is really best enjoyed during the warmest of sunny summer days. Summer also allowed many students to complete their cross country flights and complete checkrides before they headed back to school or work. My studying is kicking into high gear as I hope to earn my multi-engine instructor certificate this fall. Most importantly and dearest to my heart is my annual summer “fly camp”, racing in the Air Race Classic. Not only did I have a blast but my race partner from 2011-2016, Susan Beall, rejoined me for the fun. We achieved fourth place this year, bested by fellow Mid-Atlantic racers Alicia Sikes and Nancy Rohr in third place and Team DC-3, Deb Dreyfuss and Joy Halcott, who claimed first place! Mary Wunder’s team also had a great showing, bringing home a leg prize. We had many other Mid-Atlantic members supporting the race behind the scenes. Many thanks to those who participated and represented our section.
Mid-Atlantic 99s in Vancouver, BC
Our section was well represented at the 99s International Conference in
Vancouver, BC. We enjoyed visiting with our 99 sisters from around the world and got to explore a beautiful port city by land, sea, and air! Mark your calendars to attend the next international meeting July 8-13, 2025 in Burlington, Vermont. A fantastic opportunity for a group of us to plan a flyout to this lovely destination that is only a few hours flight.
Many thanks to the volunteers who provide leadership and support to the section. As an all-volunteer group of over 460 members, we do our best to represent your interests at the chapter, section, and international level. Don’t forget that section elections for our officers will be held this spring. Consider stepping up to run for a position. We are unique in that we elect our entire slate of officers and directors every two years vs. using a staggered format.
Last, but not least, congratulations are in order to Sugarloaf Chapter member, Michelle Dvorak, who successfully earned her instrument rating in September with the help of our section scholarship. Chapters, Sections, and International provide opportunities to our members to receive mentoring and monetary support to make dreams come true. Volunteer to give back to recruit, mentor, teach, or donate to keep this great organization relevant.
Blue Skies to all and hope to see you at an aviation event near you soon,
Lin Caywood * Mid-Atlantic Governor * 2022-2026
Hello Lin,
I’m excited to share that the Air Race Classic, the nation’s epicenter of women’s air racing, is scheduled for June 17-20, 2025.
At the time of this email, there are 2 race teams who live in states across the Mid-Atlantic U.S. registered to participate this year. To ensure the event runs smoothly, as you know, we rely heavily on volunteers who help with various aspects of the race. This is where The Ninety-Nines Mid-Atlantic Section can make a huge impact! You can help us by sharing information about the Air Race Classic through social media, with Chapter Chairmen, or conversations with your network—you can help us attract racers, volunteers, and supporters.
We are looking for volunteers, especially handicapping pilots. This position is open to all genders and requires minimal time commitment – virtual training and assisting race teams with an approximate one-hour handicap flight prior to race start.
If you are willing to help promote the Air Race Classic, I would greatly appreciate it if you could share this information with Chapter Chairmen in your Section.
If you have any questions or would like more details about the race, visit http://www.airraceclassic.org or I’d be happy to connect and provide more information if you send me an email.
Thank you for your time and support in promoting aviation and empowering women pilots!
Blue skies,
Sarah Wendt
Handicap Pilot Recruiter
Air Race Classic, Inc.