July 17th 16, 12:44 AM
Back in 1955 Walt Cannon learned to fly gliders at the Schweizer Soaring School in Elmira. As was common then, he soloed in a 2-22. After a time, Bernie Carris decided he was ready for a single seat glider and put him in the then new 1-26.
He was the first "kid" to fly a 1-26. Recently I found out that the glider he flew is our 1-26, serial number 2, N91894. It now serves as the juniors glider at our club and flies all the time.
Fast forward to last Wednesday when Walt again flew the same glider 61 years later while participating in the IVSM.
The smile on his face was priceless.
I've asked around among many who may know and nobody recalls someone flying the same glider over this span of years.
It says a lot for the longevity of both the glider and this extraordinary pilot.
Well done Walt!
UH
He was the first "kid" to fly a 1-26. Recently I found out that the glider he flew is our 1-26, serial number 2, N91894. It now serves as the juniors glider at our club and flies all the time.
Fast forward to last Wednesday when Walt again flew the same glider 61 years later while participating in the IVSM.
The smile on his face was priceless.
I've asked around among many who may know and nobody recalls someone flying the same glider over this span of years.
It says a lot for the longevity of both the glider and this extraordinary pilot.
Well done Walt!
UH