Hat in the Ring Society membership has its benefits

When pilots join the AOPA Foundation’s Hat in the Ring Society, they take on general aviation’s most difficult, long-term problems. They know that AOPA membership dues alone can’t begin to tackle all the challenges general aviation faces, and they’ve stepped forward to take a leadership role in fighting for GA’s future.

Hat in the Ring Society members are invited to special get-togethers and receptions at EAA AirVenture, Sun ’n Fun, and other aviation events. In addition, their names are included on invitation lists for special Hat in the Ring recognition events that take place at many of the regional AOPA Fly-Ins held across the country each year. If you’d like to expand your aviation circle and meet other like-minded people, attend exciting events, and join in the fun, consider the Hat in the Ring Society.

One exciting event that members enjoyed Oct. 16 took place at the Red Bull Air Race World Championship at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. More than 50 guests attended a meet and greet with pilot and Hat in the Ring Society Co-Chairman Michael Goulian and others at the pit hangars and had a behind-the-scenes look inside race hangars and interviews with crew and pilots. Goulian not only opened his hangar for viewing but also hosted a reception sponsored by Cirrus in the Media Center of the speedway. Immediately following the reception, guests were offered an opportunity to ride with a driver in their pick of race cars—Porsche, Lamborghini, or McLaren. At speeds up to 150 mph, the cars provided a rush that prepared guests for the excitement of the weekend.

Pilots who join the AOPA Foundation’s Hat in the Ring Society, renew their participation, or upgrade their support before Dec. 31 will not only have the chance to attend these exciting events but also have their efforts matched, dollar for dollar, by a challenge offered by two longtime aviation philanthropists. A $200,000 challenge fund was established by the Tom Davis Fund and Hat in the Ring Society member Michael Baldwin.

“This dollar-for-dollar match is an extraordinary opportunity for you to have a huge impact on general aviation’s future while enjoying the benefits of membership in our prestigious Hat in the Ring Society program,” said Justin Biassou, membership liaison for the Hat in the Ring Society, who organized the Red Bull Air Race event.