In 1929 there were only 117 licensed female pilots in the entire country. Of that number, 26 (who represented 73 others) showed up to form the group, the "Ninety-Nine's." In that 26 was Amelia Earhart who named the group and served as its first president. The group still flies today, and Marjy is one of them.
Each year they group up and fly competitively across country: 2,500 miles. In the early days they had 9 days to make the trip; today they get 4! Women can join at 17, but Marjy says she has only seen a few 18 years olds involved, along with some who are in their '70's, '80's and even '90's.
Marjy made the jaunt in 1995, 2012, 2013, and in 2014. She shared the perils of altitude flying in Piper Cubs and Cesnas as well as the impact aging can have on a pilot's ability to absorb oxygen at such high elevations. Her story was fascinating, and I know for one, I would like to be a stowaway on one of those flights - so I could ride on Marjy's coattails.
Thanks, to Dottie Stevens for another great luncheon program.
On an additional note: During Aviation Celebration Week at the Richland Fly-In, local pilots will be giving youngsters, "Young Eagles," some hands-on experience, and free 20 minute flights at the Richland Airport. The date is June 20th from 9am to 1pm for youngsters ranging in age from 8 - 17, and there is no cost for the program. And, of course parents will need to fill out registrations and sign approval forms.
