News Release

SNOWBIRDS FLY PAST VANIER CUP

November 27, 2006

By Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith

15 WING, MOOSE JAW - Bringing flying and football together is a perfect combination for Captain Ian James, Standards Pilot, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, and former University of Calgary Dinosaurs' linebacker.

For Captain James, the opportunity to lead the Canadian Forces Snowbirds' fly-past of Vanier Cup, Canada's Interuniversity Sport Football Championship, holds special significance.

In 1985 and 1988, Captain James participated and won two Vanier Cups as a linebacker with the University of Calgary Dinosaurs, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics. First in 1985 with a win over the University of Western Ontario and then in 1988 with a win over Saint Mary's University.

"It is an honour to be part of the Vanier Cup," said Captain James. "I am really looking forward to the fly-past and to being a part of such a spirited and exciting event."

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will conduct a 4-jet fly-past at 500 feet above the stadium as part of the Opening Ceremonies for the prestigious sporting event November 25 at the University of Saskatoon.

"It has always been my dream to be a pilot," said Captain James, who shares his love of aviation with youth in numerous school and cadet visits. "I have been fortunate to have had many exciting and rewarding career opportunities in the Canadian Forces."

Captain James has a plethora of experience instructing on the CT-114 Tutor, flying search and rescue and northern operations on the CC-138 Twin Otter as well as supporting VIP and evacuation missions on the CC-144 Challenger. In 1998 and 1999, Captain James flew as the #9 solo pilot with the Snowbirds.

Currently, Captain James is responsible for training new Snowbird pilots, overseeing flight safety issues, and ensuring a continued high level of proficiency of current Snowbird pilots.

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