The Pilot Exchange: Reflections on Borki - Russian Aerobatic Training Camp
By Mike Heuer, John Morrisey, Ellen Dean, and Patty Wagstaff
Note from Mike Heuer: August 10, 2025
Here is a scan of the article “Reflections on Borki” by John Morrissey that appeared in the May 1992 issue of Sport Aerobatics magazine. This is one of a 4-Part series: an intro by me, an article by Ellen Dean, John’s article, and the last by Patty Wagstaff.
It is quite an adventure in reading about the wonderful experiences of these pilots. The article that I wrote in early 1992 (the intro) was the first, and gave a historical background to what became the pilot exchange with the USSR. The last two articles are by Ellen Dean and Patty Wagstaff – both of whom I have had a great admiration for and friendship. Ellen left competition many years ago, as did Patty but she is still active, as you know, in airshows and her school in Florida. I hope you find their accounts of the trip equally fascinating.
Back then, as now, I believed in the importance of engaging in aerobatics internationally and strong American participation and performance in world championships.
Enjoy the reading,
Michael R. Heuer
IAC President Emeritus
IAC Historian
USA Alternate Delegate to CIVA
EAA 25624 / IAC 4
To read Mike Heuer's article, click HERE.
To read John Morrissey's article, click HERE.
To read Ellen Dean's article, click HERE.
To read Patty Wagstaff's article, click HERE.
All articles can also be accessed and downloaded at the bottom of this page (below).
