South African Wingsuit Flyer Advances Global Sport Profile

The 25th annual Cascades air show in Madras, Oregon, features rare aerobatic performances including wing walking by Sam Tryggvason, one of only about five wing walkers in North America. Sam, who balances this daring role with her STEM background alongside her pilot husband, emphasizes the mental preparation and physical challenges involved. Meanwhile, South African wingsuit flyer Jean-Jacques Wallis is gaining international acclaim for his high-speed, precision flights, reaching speeds of up to 143 mph and preparing for the 11th World Wingsuit League Grand Prix in China. Wallis's recent jumps over Table Mountain highlight South Africa's rising prominence in extreme aerial sports, showcasing both the sport's beauty and technical demands. Both stories demonstrate the blend of physical skill, mental focus, and technical mastery required for these extreme forms of aviation. Together, these athletes highlight the global appeal and evolving challenges of aerial sports from wing walking to wingsuit flying.