Jim LeRoy in BULLDOG
Start with a factory built Pitts S2S, add stronger wings, build a larger, more powerful motor, add an oversized, custom propeller, increase the sizes of all the control surfaces, reshape the tail, strengthen the fuselage, and re-design the fuel and oil systems and you have what Jim calls the "Bulldog" Pitts S2S.
Considered by many as the premier solo act in the business today, Jim LeRoy has pushed aerobatic flying to a new and unsurpassed level. With a routine full of signature maneuvers and heart stopping surprises, Jim redefines the limits with explosive, non-stop action from start to finish. "People want to see low, wild, and seemingly out of control, but at the same time they want discipline, precision, and complete control" says Jim. "You've got to take all of those elements and fuse them together in just the right way".
Jim attacks the classic maneuvers with a "new age" energy, adds the state of the art gyroscopic stuff, throws in some tricks of his own and combines it all into a mesmerizing display of aerodynamic dynamite that will leave even the most seasoned airshow spectators shaking their heads in amazement.
A former Marine Corps Scout/Sniper, holds a B.S. degree in Aeronautical/Aerospace engineering as well as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license. His list of pilot ratings includes single-engine, multi-engine, airplane instructor, helicopter, helicopter instructor, instrument instructor, and aerobatic competency evaluator. Because of his dedication and commitment to excellence, Jim has established himself as one of the busiest and most sought after air show performers in the industry today.
The recipient of the 2002 Art Scholl Showmanship Award and the 2003 Bill Barber Award for Showmanship, Jim is one of only eleven performers ever to receive both of these highly prestigious honors. Jim is one of only a handful of full time "stunt pilots" in the world and actually makes his living by performing for air show audiences, world-wide.