Wing commander flying at 100 years old
Harry Hayward loves nothing better than taking the controls for a quick joyride around the open skies of Wairarapa.
Oh yeah, and he’s just turned 100. The former RNZAF wing commander of Lower Hutt joked that he thought he wouldn’t make the century because it was never a target he could achieve in cricket.
He shouldn’t have worried because although his advancing years have slowed him down a tad, his energy and quick wit will be propelling him to new experiences for some time to come.
His co-pilot during his birthday celebration flight yesterday was a spring chicken by comparison.
Wairarapa and Ruahine Aero Club flight instructor Doug Yarrall, 86, of Masterton handed over controls of the Tecnam two-seater to Harry once they had lifted off from Masterton’s Hood Aerodrome.
Harry said the simple aircraft was a breeze to fly, even though next time he would sit on a pillow so it would be easier to see over the dash.
His sons Baz and Pete had arranged for various flights on an annual basis for the aging aviator. In recent years, he had been up in helicopters, gliders and powered fixed-wing aircraft.
Though Pete passed away last year, Baz, who lives in Kaikoura, was determined to get his dad airborne for a 100th birthday present.
Harry reached the milestone in September.
‘‘I haven’t year. been up since last