MONROE, La. (KNOE 8 News)- Two Louisiana Tech pilots will soon hit the skies to compete in a national flying competition. Jessica Lowery and Jessica Vinson will soon embark on a journey of a lifetime. The duo or team Jessica will participate in a cross country race. But Jessica Lowery says the opportunity almost didn't happen. "We sent in our registration and the list was full there were 57 teams and they had a full list." said Lowery.
But shortly after a team dropped out and "the air race classic" needed a 57th team. "So they called us and here we are." said Lowery.
Team Jessica will be the only team in the sky representing Louisiana in this competition. The pilots will fly from Arizona to Ohio in the event designed to promote women pilots. In aviation only 6% of pilots are female and Jessica Vinson says an even smaller percentage are professional pilots. "We know what we're doing, we're excited about it, we're enthusiastic about aviation and that we want to promote aviation for future generations and get young women involved later in the years." said Vinson.
The race will take four days...but winning isn't just about speed. It's also about planning and strategy and it will be the first time Lowery flies a great distance. But her mother isn't worried, "It's really overwhelming at times, but I'm really proud of her and I know God will be with her and keep her safe." said Kathy Lowery.
"I'm just really excited about the experience, getting to see the United States in a totally different perspective." said Vinson and Jessica Lowery added "It's exciting, I'm ready to leave and get on our way."
The pair flew to Arizona Thursday to prepare for the sky race that will begin on June 19. If you want to follow team Jessica's journey or donate to their cause, click here.
Tuesday, May 21 2013 12:32 AM EDT2013-05-21 04:32:49 GMT
WATERPROOF, La. (KNOE 8 News) - A school fight lands more than a dozen students in jail back in April. Monday, parents are deciding to challenge a zero-tolerance rule.
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FARMERVILLE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - The family of a Farmerville teen who died at football practice last week says it is overwhelmed by the community's gratitude.
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MONROE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - School closures, cuts to services, and employee reductions will be actions facing new Monroe superintendent-elect Brent Vidrine.
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