Andrew just sent me this, it gives you guys an idea of what this entails in his words:
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QQ is returning as World Champion, this allowed 4 people to go from the USA. 3 for the team and himself. In the end it was a win win for him. If he didn’t return as World Champion he would have had to remake the team. Plus this allows the other person (4th) to go which is a great experience for that person.
The team goes over to the other country for about 2 and a half weeks during the contest. The contest is a weeklong. From Sun up to Sun down we are all out at the flying field. Many long days with not a lot of great sleep.
This year it will be
Jason Shulman Pilot-Dave Stodart Caller
Andrew Jesky Pilot-Verne Koester Caller
Brett Wickizer Pilot- Bryan Hebert Caller
Quique Somenzini Pilot-Ryan Smith Caller
Albert Glenn Team Manager- Raiko Potter Assistant Team Manager
Jason Shulman is a 2 time US-F3A National Champion. Jason also has participated in the worlds since 99. This making it his 6th year returning. Jason has been on a mission this year and is flying extremely well.
This is the second time I’m returning to compete for the USA. It has been a hard battle to get to but well worth it. I’m looking forward to Portugal and flying with the Team. I feel we have a great shot at the Podium this year.
Brett Wickizer is a multi time National Champion and this will be his first time competing for the USA. Brett has risen up thru the ranks quickly and is an extremely gifted pilot. Brett is extremely excited to compete for the USA and will represent our country great.
Quique Somenzini is the returning World Champion. Quique elected to return as the world champion as it allowed 3 people to make up the US team. In reality we will have 4 Americans competing but only Jason, myself, and Brett’s scores will count. This was a great thing on Quique’s part as it allowed the team to expand. This will only help all of our odds at winning in Portugal as we will all practice together and help each other.
We will have other people also going with us as supporters so you can see how many actually go for the US. Each Team member has to have their own car to hall around the planes as well as pilot/caller has their own hotel room. This way we are always focused on the goal. So it is 4 rental cars, 4 hotel rooms, 14 people to feed at least 2 times a day, 14 Airline tickets. You can see it adds up quickly.
For all of us going over it is the highest honor to compete for the United States of America. We are going over to represent our country which is just the coolest feeling ever. Getting to listen to the Star Spangled Banner playing is a pretty proud moment for us.
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We are proud to have you guys representing us!
Also, my apologies to QQ, I didn't quite understand the way the four pilots worked out with the team. Now I understand, and have adjusted the post above!