I made this film in 1989. Aerobatic competition is a sport that involves flying aircraft in precise maneuvers and patterns, often at high speeds and in close proximity to the ground. Pilots perform a series of pre-defined aerial figures, judged on factors like precision, smoothness, and difficulty. These maneuvers include loops, rolls, spins, and combinations thereof, with the aim of showcasing the pilot's skill and the aircraft's capabilities.

The sport requires a high level of skill, discipline, and physical fitness, as pilots must navigate extreme forces and maintain control of the aircraft at all times. Aerobatic competition is not only a test of flying ability but also of mental strength, as pilots must memorize routines and adapt to changing conditions while in flight.

In aerobatic competition, both men and women compete against each other on equal terms, and there are no separate categories based on gender. The sport evaluates the skill, precision, and performance of the pilot, regardless of their gender. The judging criteria focus on the execution of maneuvers, the accuracy of the flight path, and the pilot's ability to adhere to the competition's rules and guidelines, which apply equally to all competitors.

The principle behind this approach is that the physical differences between genders have minimal impact on the ability to pilot an aircraft in aerobatic maneuvers. What matters most are the pilot's training, experience, skill level, and mental discipline. As a result, aerobatic competitions provide a level playing field where men and women can, and do, compete directly against each other.

The United States Aerobatic Team is a group of highly skilled pilots who represent the United States in international aerobatic competitions. The team competes in various international events, the most prestigious of which is the World Aerobatic Championships (WAC). The WAC is held every two years under the auspices of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, the world governing body for air sports, including aerobatics.

Patty Wagstaff is a highly acclaimed American aerobatic pilot and a key figure in the world of aerobatics. Born in 1951, Wagstaff's entry into aviation began in the early 1980s, and she quickly made a name for herself in the competitive aerobatics scene. Her precise flying style, coupled with her fearless approach to aerobatics, has earned her a distinguished place in aviation history.

Wagstaff has won numerous accolades throughout her career. She is a three-time U.S. National Aerobatic Champion, having won the title in 1991, 1992, and 1993. This achievement made her the first woman to win the national aerobatic title, breaking gender barriers in what was traditionally seen as a male-dominated field. Additionally, Wagstaff has represented the United States in international competitions, including the World Aerobatic Championships, where she competed as a member of the U.S. Aerobatic Team.

Beyond competition, Wagstaff has also contributed to the aviation community through her work as a flight instructor, author, and safety advocate. She has been recognized for her contributions to aviation with several awards, including induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2004. Wagstaff's influence extends beyond her achievements in the cockpit; she is a role model and inspiration for aspiring pilots, demonstrating that skill, dedication, and passion for flying can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

Her legacy is not just as a competitor but as a pioneer who has paved the way for women in aviation, promoting equality and demonstrating that excellence in aerobatics knows no gender. Wagstaff's dedication to the sport and her achievements have left an indelible mark on the world of aerobatic flying, making her one of the most respected and admired figures in aviation.

Cecilia Aragon is an accomplished aerobatic pilot known for her significant contributions to the field of aerobatics and aviation. In the realm of aerobatics, Cecilia Aragon made a mark by overcoming personal fears and challenges to become an aerobatic pilot. Her journey into aerobatics is often highlighted as a testament to her determination and passion for flying. Aragon's involvement in aerobatics showcases her skills in precision flying.

Cecilia Aragon has made significant strides in academia and science. Her research focuses on human-centered data science, a field that combines her passion for aviation with her expertise in computer science. Aragon has applied her unique perspective as an aerobatic pilot to her scientific work, exploring how humans interact with complex systems and data.

Cecilia Aragon's story is one of breaking barriers and merging diverse interests to make significant contributions across different fields. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of combining passions to forge new paths and make meaningful contributions to society.