Chip Yates, the first human in history to exceed 200 MPH in an electricairplane, will try to beat his original record at Mather Airport this October
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – July 10, 2013 - The California Capital Airshow (CCA), presented by Sacramento County, today announced the addition of Chip Yates, founder and CEO of Flight of the Century, Inc. (www.flightofthecentury.com), and his ongoing mission to ‘make science cool’ as he attempts to break his current world speed record of 202 miles per hour in an electric airplane in front
of the crowd at Mather Airport on Saturday, October 5, 2013. “I want to be an example to teens, to inspire them. I’m someone that is using my STEM education to go out and change the world while doing something really cool; they can too,” said Chip Yates. “The realm of science, technology, engineering and math are gateways for kids to not only learn but to truly explore all of the opportunities available to them. If you can dream it, you can build it and I’m living proof of that.”
At only 13 years old, Yates was destined to utilize his education to push the current limits of technology. He saved $50.00 and convinced his parents to invest an additional $50.00 in order to buy and rebuild his first motorcycle. Since then, Yates has become a highly dynamic and proven leader who is recognized worldwide as an electric vehicle pioneer and green technology innovator.
Yates quickly set his sights on aviation and adapted his water-cooled 258 horsepowerelectric motor and controller system to an aircraft designed by Burt Rutan (famed aerospace engineer, best known for the design of SpaceShipOne, the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, and Voyager); but Yates had one problem – he was not a pilot. He earned his pilot’s license in two months and had only 58 hours when he flew on July 18, 2012 where he established a world speed record for electric powered aircraft of 202 mph.
“We’re thrilled and honored to have Chip Yates at this year’s Airshow,” said Darcy Brewer, executive director of the California Capital Airshow. “Chip truly embodies whatit means to follow your dreams. Kids of all ages will not only get to see Chip fly and attempt to break a world record, but they’ll also get the chance to meet him, talk to him and ask him questions. He’ll be at the show both days and will be part of a featured exhibit. It’s going to be an amazing opportunity.”
The CCA will be all things “shiny, fast and loud” for all ages and so much more! Tickets are now available online and can be easily purchased at the Airshow web site, http://www.californiacapitalairshow.com/buytickets.php. Click here to see the full line up of performers. The Airshow web site will be updated regularly with news, attraction information and more. Fans can follow the Airshow on Facebook and Twitter (#calcapairshow). High-resolution images can be found here.
About California Capital Airshow
Established in 2004, the California Capital Airshow has become one of the largest and highly- respected shows in the nation. As part of its community relations, the non-profit organization has awarded over 80 scholarships to deserving students from our region with an interest in aviation, aerospace, aeronautics and related fields. For more information about the California Capital Airshow, presented by Sacramento County, please visit www.californiacapitalairshow.com.
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