WAGAC2010 & EGAC2010:
Dedicated to the Memory of Matti Peura
 We are sad to
report the passing of Matti Peura on the 26th of July, 2010.
Matti was a
member of the CIVA Glider Aerobatics Sub-Committee and an enthusiastic
supporter and advocate for glider aerobatics for many years. He was the
key figure in Finnish glider aerobatics, and due to much of his personal
effort, the sport has grown rapidly in Finland in the past years. Matti
was particularly involved in initiative to bring the World Advanced Glider
Aerobatic Championships to Finland. A glider aerobatic pilot himself, he
was several times the Finnish Glider Aerobatic Champion, the first Nordic
Glider Aerobatic Champion, and was preparing for the FAI Championships in
Jämi when he became ill in May. On the evening of 24 July, at the
closing ceremonies for the WAGAC and EGAC in Finland, CIVA President Mike
Heuer dedicated the Championships to Matti Peura on behalf of FAI and in
tribute to his contributions to glider aerobatics and his role in making
that Championships become a reality. The Championships were a success
attracting nearly 60 pilots in Advanced and Unlimited categories and
particularly noteworthy was the involvement of many new, young pilots in
FAI Aerobatic Championship competition. This makes this event an even more
fitting tribute to Matti's memory. Our condolences to Matti's many
friends and family. | 
