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    Chris Pozarski Dominated Private Pilot!!

    Chris Pozarski has stepped onto the mat, ready to face his latest opponent: the Private Pilot checkride. While a daunting task, Chris knows from both his Jiu Jitsu and flight training that no matter the size of the challenge, every opponent can be neutralized with the right strategy and mindset. And conquer away he did! Chris—burly, focused, and determined—obliterated his checkride today, officially becoming a private pilot!! He started out strong by passing the oral exam, demonstrating his knowledge and control, much like setting up for the perfect takedown. Then, in the air, Chris showcased smooth, precise technique, executing each maneuver like a submission on the mat. When his wheels touched down at KRNO, it was clear: he didn’t just pass—he dominated, like a clean sweep in competition. Chris, you've been putting in the hours in the cockpit and on the mat, and your hard work has paid off. Huge congratulations! Let’s also give a big shoutout to your coach/flight instructor, Alex Spencer, who has skillfully guided you to victory. Fantastic job to both of you—and a big “Oss!” for this incredible milestone!
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    Alex Crupi is a Private Pilot!

    If there’s another person on the planet that challenges Taylor Swift for her traveling, it has to be the renowned Alex Crupi. From juggling the high travel demands of his job to pursuing his own flight training in good ol’ Reno, NV, Alex has been a nonstop flying machine! And today, all those miles have finally paid off. Alex no longer has to daydream about becoming a pilot because today he made his dreams a reality and earned his private pilot certificate! Alex’s interest for flying all began while making his commute to work… you know while coasting at 35,000 feet in a commercial aircraft, naturally. I think it goes without saying that Alex has hardly been a stranger to aviation. Putting everything he learned to the test, Alex came out successful and now can fly when the sky calls, not when his work schedule does. When Alex isn’t working and flying to his heart’s content, you can find him exploring the great outdoors, enjoying a good bite, or spending time with friends and family. Huge congratulations to Alex and his flight instructor, Grant Muzzio, on this incredible accomplishment! Get up there and fly!
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    Taylor Browning Bested Solo Flight!

    Not all heroes wear capes, and Taylor Browning is proof of that! As a firefighter paramedic, Taylor’s been tackling the demands of his high-stakes job while chasing his dream of becoming a pilot. This fire season, in particular, put his determination to the test, as wildfires burned closer to home. But, with the same dedication and perseverance he brings to saving lives on the front lines, Taylor hit a major milestone today and soloed in N292ED at KSPZ on runway 24! Balancing firefighting with flight training is no easy feat, but Taylor handled the challenge like a pro. His hard work, grit, and focus paid off in a big way as he took to the skies solo for the first time, and we’re incredibly proud of the work he’s put into his training. When Taylor isn’t fighting the flames or flying airplanes, you’ll find him traveling the country in his RV, skiing, or tearing it up while off-roading. Let’s give a huge congratulations to Taylor and his flight instructor, Eric Harned, who has helped him reach this impressive milestone. Amazing work you two! That checkride is right around the corner.
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    Eric Stanger is Instrument Rated!

    Eric Stanger: real estate master, snowmobile connoisseur, and golf addict has added yet another impressive skill to his docket: flying in the clouds! That’s right, today Eric underwent the gauntlet of instrument approaches, holds, and unusual attitudes all while utilizing his unrivaled skill and swagger in the airplane. And while navigating solely by instruments may be as tricky as a tight turn on a snowmobile, Eric handled it like a seasoned professional. It’s been a blizzard of training sessions, but he’s now equipped to handle any IFR conditions thrown his way. From snowmobiles to airplanes, he’s clearly got a knack for handling machines in challenging conditions. Huge congratulations to Eric and his yeti- I mean flight instructor, Ryan Mill, who instructed Eric on the ins and outs of navigating through the stormy world of instrument flying. Eric, as you cruise into this new chapter of your flying, one thing is clear: the skies might be overcast, but your future is looking snow bright! Keep flying high, Eric, you're ready to sled your way through it all!
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    Zeus Wesley Has Conquered Solo Flight!

    Today, the skies were no match for the thunderous presence of Zeus Wesley, who unleashed his aviation prowess and soloed in N752DW on runway 26 at KRTS. Just like the Greek god Zeus, known for commanding the heavens, Zeus Wesley took control of the skies, proving that he's ready to strike lightning on his journey to becoming a pilot. As a recipient of the Reno Air Race Association scholarship, Zeus has clearly harnessed the power of the winds to reach new heights. His flight training has been nothing short of electrifying, and today’s solo is a testament to his dedication and skill. While his namesake may have ruled Olympus, our Zeus is the king of the runway. With the winds beneath his wings and the confidence of a deity, Zeus Wesley is now officially soaring solo, ready to make every flight as legendary as his name! Let’s give a thunderous round of applause to Zeus and his flight instructor, Grant Muzzio, who has guided him along this awesome journey! Keep an eye on the horizon—this pilot’s journey is just getting started!
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    Shawn Tuckett Upgraded to Fixed Wing!!

    Shawn Tuckett, covert operations specialist, decided to keep his solo a secret from us yesterday afternoon! Nothing gets past the GBA Radar (most times) 😎. Shawn Tuckett isn’t new to this whole aviation thing, though. Deciding to finally jump on the band wagon and get the superior fixed wing rating, Shawn has been flying helicopters ever since. And while he doesn’t flaunt it, Shawn has his helicopter CFII, meaning he may or may not be able to teach his flight instructor, Alex Spencer, a thing or two. When he’s not hiding things from us, Shawn does mechanical work on C130s for the Air Force, juggling the responsibilities that come with being a new dad, and spending time with his lovely wife. We’ve also been told that like his methodical instructor, Shawn Tuckett is a menace when it comes to following the checklist. Let’s give Shawn a huge congratulations on this awesome accomplishment! He may have been around the block in terms of flying, but there’s nothing like doing your first solo, even if it’s in a fixed wing aircraft. Awesome work you two!
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