TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The legacy of women in aviation is rich and historic, beginning with the first all-female air race in 1929, featuring notable contestant Amelia Earhart, a proud native of Kansas.
That pioneering spirit continues to thrive today, especially with teams like “Midwest Bess,” which was inspired by Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman ever to earn a pilot’s license. Joyce Parker, the pilot of Midwest Bess, shared insights into the team’s dedication and their upcoming participation in the annual Air Race Classic.
This exhilarating flying event will take the duo from Alabama to Washington State, and June 17 marks their official race day. For Parker, this race will be her third, while co-pilot Tammy Willits is gearing up for her debut. “I am so excited, I am just like a little kid getting to go to Worlds of Fun for the first time,” Willits expressed, capturing the enthusiasm shared among aviation enthusiasts.
Joyce Parker, who learned to fly during her service in the Air Force, recalls, “I learned to fly in Washington, D.C., the week before 9/11.” This unusual entry into aviation has shaped her journey over the past several years.
Willits, who holds nearly 1,100 flying hours since obtaining her license in 2013, fondly recalls her childhood experiences flying with her father, fueling her passion for aviation alongside her husband as they travel across the United States.
Preparing for the race involves navigating numerous regulations and protocols. “Just reviewing all of the rules, and there are a lot of rules for this race, and all of the instructions for exactly how to do the flyby for the timing and all the information about the various airports,” Willits explained, spotlighting the seriousness of their preparation.
Faith plays a crucial role in Parker’s flying experience: “The Lord is with me every time; I don’t fly without the Lord,” she affirmed. “My purpose in Christ is to follow the Lord and to bring other people to Christ.” Her faith infuses her love of flying with a deeper purpose.
The Midwest Bess team is set to depart for Fairhope, Alabama this Friday in anticipation of the race. With their combined skills and deep-rooted dedication, Parker and Willits are ready to showcase their talents in this significant aviation event.
