EVENT PREVIEW
by Joey Cee
Each year I get invited to preview some of the flying machines that will be roaring throughout the skies of Toronto on Labour Day Weekend. Attending the media scrummage is a half-day affair on the secret tarmac location at Pearson International Airport and at Billy Bishop Airport.
This year, the sun was shining, the weather was cool and the clouds puffed up the blue skies. The perfect setting for a morning spent talking with the top guns, getting a close up look at the flyware, hearing the jet engines without ear plugs and sucking in jet fuel fumes. It’s all a part of the preview experience. You can’t have one without the others!
Some of the media types took to the skies with the Breitling 7 Team while others chatted with the many interesting pilots. There were exhilarating take-offs, fly-bys and landings.
I must say that year after year, I have not yet met a pilot or media relations officer who wasn’t approachable, courteous and quiet willing to take the time to share their personal stories – and they give their take on their career climb with a smile and a sense of excitement that is infectious. Similar to that of old friend Michael “Pinball” Clemons who came by for a visit.
With my trusted photographer Tracey White Kirouac in tow, we chronicled the day in photographs which we share with you.
The Canadian International Air Show takes place over the CNE grounds, at the waterfront, on Saturday, Sunday and Labour Day Monday from noon to 3 pm daily. The best viewing vantage point is at the viewing area west of the Ontario Place bridge on the southside of Lakeshore Blvd. W.
Photographs by Tracey White Kirouac
