EMPER resident, Jason Phelan (41), usually prefers his feet securely on the ground. However, in a year’s time, he will be seeing the world from a very new and unusual perspective as he undertakes a gravity defying aerobatic flying challenge across Ireland ending just a stone’s throw away from his home at the Abbeyshrule airfield. Jason, who is not a pilot, has set himself a colossal challenge of holding onto his stomach whilst experiencing as many aerobatic routines, in as many varied aircraft, whist also flying in as many vintage aircraft as possible between aerobatic flights and to make the challenge that bit harder, he must complete this gargantuan task from as many airfields as possible! Mixing an interest in air show displays with a charity close to his heart, Pieta House, where he works, Jason aims to use this event to raise awareness for the charity as well as much needed funds. Speaking to Topic this week, Jason says he got the idea after taking part in a similar charity challenge in the UK in 2009. “I worked for the Civil Aviation Authority in the UK at the time and took part in a similar challenge. It wasn’t easy to do, I admit. I did feel queasy after completing around 336 aerobatic manoeuvres,” he revealed. After moving from the UK to Emper in 2012, to be closer to his family in Ballynacargy and surrounding areas, Jason got the idea to bring the charity fundraiser format to Ireland and a couple of short years later, Jason’s plan is in motion, choosing to take on the daredevil pursuit over the weekend of 15 and 16 August next year for Pieta House. Of course once is not exhilarating enough for this adrenaline junkie, he is planning to repeat the activity in the UK a few days later to raise funds for fly2help, an aviation charity that inspires positive change through the wonder of flight. Fly2help CEO Felicia Willow said: “We are thrilled that Jason has chosen us as one of the charities for his exciting aerobatic challenge. I strongly encourage all pilots and aircraft owners who can offer Jason an aerobatic experience to come forward and help make this a challenge to remember! All funds raised will go directly to our activities, inspiring change through the wonder of flight.”
SPONSORSHIP
With just twelve months to go, Jason is now seeking for assistance from the public. Jason says he would like to hear from any aircraft owners who are in a position to offer aerobatic, transit or vintage flights for the fundraising challenge. He is also seeking for a sponsor or sponsors perhaps to help provide support to achieve maximum funds raised as well as raise awareness of the charities and the work they do. If you would like to help in any way or with a fundraising event in support of Jason please contact him at avfchallenge@gmail.com You can donate online at Jason’s iDonate page at Jason Phelan Aerobatic Challenge for Pieta House or My Donate Page for fly2help. Follow his challenge on facebook @ Aerobatic Challenge.