The third annual Vanderhoof Air Show was bigger and better than ever before.
"I wasn't prepared for what I saw. I was really impressed with the number of acts and the quality of acts," said James Wiens, a spectator at the event.
On August 9, rows of planes and pilots grouped around the airport hanger in Vanderhoof awaiting their turn at pleasing the crowd which was much bigger than last year. Each pilot preformed their dare devilish acts, and s few new acts this year such as the dirt biking boys from Vanderhoof, Jeff Fehr and Luke Wheeler also had the crowds cheering with excitement.
One pilot, Bud Granley, who has had his private licence with the air cadets since 1955, has performed in countless air shows over the past 54 years. Other than talking to pretty girls, his favourite thing about performing is getting paid enough for the upkeep of his plane and flying with his son, Ross Granley, who has done a duo performance with his dad for over 15 years.
"You have to trust that your flying next to a generous leader and you have to really help each other with the follow back," said Bud.
Ross also added that him and his father have a tremendous respect for each other.
"For some it may be a contentious relationship working with their father but we have a co-operative relationship. And since we are so comfortable with each other we push each other with manoeuvres that others wouldn't. But we keep it safe," said Ross.
Another internationally-known pilot present at the Vanderhoof Air Show was Anna Serbinenko with her 'Sky dancing' routine. As the only female aerobatics performer currently in Canada, she is an inspiration to women and proves that anything is possible.
" I want to inspire and show girls and women everywhere they can achieve their dreams," said Ms. Serbinenko. "They can be up there and they can fly. It's closer than you think."