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David
Martin
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Photo by
Martha Martin |
David Martin flies a unique air
show demonstrating the extraordinary maneuverability of his
Breitling CAP 232. David is well known in the aerobatic
community for his ability to tumble the plane in unparalleled
style and accomplishing gyroscopic maneuvers never duplicated by
others. With a strong background in competition aerobatics,
David's air show is a combination of precision and amazing
tumbling maneuvers.
David grew up in an aviation
family in Texas, where both his father and grandfather were
airline pilots so it was only natural that his interest in
flying began at a very early age. David started flying with this
father in the family's 1959 K model Bonanza at age 12. His first
aerobatics were in his grandfather's 1941 Fleet biplane. His
grandfather had been a barnstormer in the 1930s and insisted
that David learned aerobatics as a part of his basic training.
David continued with his flying throughout high school, often
flying the 25 miles to attend school. As a high school
graduation present, his parents gave David an aerobatic course
with Duane Cole. This was when he set his goal to become World
Aerobatic Champion. After graduating from Southeastern Oklahoma
State University with a degree in aviation, David flew corporate
jets for several years until he joined the Texas Air National
Guard. Continuing with his quest for excellence, David graduated
from Air Force Pilot Training, F-4 training and F-16 training at
the top of his classes.
David started to seriously pursue
competition aerobatics in 1994 upon purchasing an Extra 300S.
Since earning a place on the United States Aerobatic Team in
1997, David has attended 5 World Aerobatic Championships winning
an individual gold medal and 3 team bronze medals. In 2001,
David won the United States National Aerobatic Championships.
In 2006, David placed first at
team selection earning him the title of US Team Captain. The US
Team will compete at the World Aerobatic Championships in
Granada, Spain this summer.
David and his wife Martha, also a
pilot, live at Possum Kingdom Lake, Texas.
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