Debrief /

The 2016 Red Bull Air Race series opened March 11 in Abu Dhabi, and New Englander Michael Goulian—in his newly modified Zivko Edge 540—is attempting to regain the championship title that he won in Budapest, Hungary, in 2009. One of two Americans in the 16-pilot Red Bull Master Class division, Goulian spent much of last winter working on modifications to his raceplane. Although he finished tenth in a field of 14 in 2015, Goulian had an impressive showing at the Las Vegas finale and hopes his aircraft modifications propel No. 99 into the winner’s circle this year.

Michael Goulian returns from his flight at the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in Chiba, Japan.

STARTED IN AVIATION…My family has owned a flight school outside of Boston since 1964. My dad took me to work when I was in high school and I fell in love with flying.

EARLY CHALLENGES…Trying to pace myself. I wanted to fly every day, but my dad made me pay for much of my flying by working at the flight school. I was able to afford maybe two lessons a week. It seemed hard on me at the time, but looking back it was the best thing because it made me work hard. It also made me appreciate each time I got to fly.

HARDEST LESSONS…Like everyone, I remember having trouble with landings. I just couldn’t get it, but then one day it just clicked and that was it. Never an issue again.

FAVORITE AVIATION ACTIVITY…We have a Piper Cub and I love to take it flying low and slow with my daughter Emily. We have a blast.

FAVORITE AIRPLANE…I love them all but I would say the Cirrus SR22, Extra 330SC, and the Learjet. Those three airplanes seem to fit me the best.

ADVICE FOR STUDENTS…Enjoy the process. It’s an adventure. Some days are amazing, some days are frustrating. But any chance to be in the air is a blessing, so make sure you take just a second to relax and enjoy.