Bill Beaton
Race # 57
Aircraft:
Modified Harmon Rocket II
“Griffin Rocket”
Biography
Bill’s passion for aviation began at an early age, but it was mid-life before circumstances allowed for a lot of flying time. He has now flown light aircraft throughout the borders of North America and Mexico including several pilgrimages to Oshkosh Airventure. In 2012, began competing in the Sport Air Racing League to further his aviation interests and quickly succeeded in his class.
Bill lives near the Canadian Rockies in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, home of the Calgary Stampede and a lot of western hospitality. For over 30 years, he has been a businessman and management consultant in the Canadian oilpatch and aviation sectors.
Race 57, the Griffin Rocket, is a modified Harmon Rocket II constructed in 1998 and purchased from Bakersfield CA in 2007. The build quality of Gary Banducci made a fast plane from the first flight and a great platform for speed modifications. Winters are long in Canada, so expect some speed enhancements to a proven ship.
Bill has held leadership positions in the Calgary Flying Club, the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association and several aviation businesses. He is currently the President of John Hopkinson & Associates, an international jet broker and volunteers with the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association and Hope Air.
Bill completed the Pylon Racing Seminar in 2013 and looks for 2014 to be his Rookie race year at Reno. He is assisted by a very capable and dedicated Crew Chief, Ralph “RV” Inkster. Griffin Air Racing is dedicated to Securitas et Decoris.
