Danél Esterhuysen Since obtaining his pilot’s licence in 1997, Polokwane’s latest Springbok, Jonty Esser has grown into one of the finest route-finders in the country and will now have the chance to fly his own kite against the world’s best. "I always dreamt of representing our beautiful country in any sport on international level," says Esser who was recently chosen for the South African team that will represent the country at the World Rally Flying Championships in Dubnika, Slovakia in August. Although Slovakia will be remembered as the team ending Italy’s Fifa World Cup hopes, it has also hosted five of the international flying and gliding championships within the past 16 years. Receiving his national colours was one of the proudest and most wonderful moments in his life and soon he will be heading to East Europe to prove his skills against the best in the world. General Aviation Commission has approved that the 17th World Rally Flying Championship be organised by the Slovak National Aeroclub in cooperation with the Aeroclub Dubnica at the Slavnica airfield from 9 August until 15 August. The airfield is close to the town of Dubnica, in the west part of Slovakia, 130 km northeast from Bratislava, the capitol of the Slovak Republic. There is a 1 100 m long grass runway which will be used during the championships. According to Esser it was decided in Palma de Mallorca to allow each country ten crew members for the Championship to give new pilots from all over the world a chance to participate. Other than training for the championships, Esser is the owner of Pilot’s Haven Flight School, operating from the Civil Airport. Also at his flight school, Esser focuses on providing the highest quality training with a perfect safety record since in operation for Helicopter Pilots License, Private Pilots License and Sports Pilots License. "We train commercial pilots and instructors. All your online exams can be written in our terminal office facility. "We also offer a pay as you fly option which has proved to be very successful helping anyone to become pilots and reach for their dreams," Esser said. Call now to arrange your introductory flight for a 50% discount (please bring this article with to qualify). • A Golf Day will be held on 24 July in order to raise funds for the expensive trip to Slovaki as all team members are dependant on sponsors. The day will be held at the University of Limpopo Golf course at R150 per person. For more information, contact Amanda at 082 665 1505.
