Profession: Manufacturer rep for Houston Poly Bag

Pilot Certificates and Ratings: Commercial

Flight Time: 1,100 hours

Number of Contests Flown: About 25 since I started this sport in 1996.

Aviation Background: Although my father (Larry "LC" Gallaway) is a pilot and I grew up in an aviation environment, I did not get my certificate until my 30th birthday. Once I did, however, I was essentially handed the keys to LC's Citabria. Armed with a few lessons and comfortable with spins, I made my way to Aero Country Airport in the summer of 1996. I think I had about 75 hours total time. There I met and later joined IAC Chapter 24, the Lone Star Aerobatic Club. That was the biggest influence and by far the smartest move I made. The talent there was huge, and I was lucky to have them work with me. Perhaps the best teachers were Kurt Haukohl, Bill Marcellus, Daryle Grounds, and Lynn Heffley. These guys made sure I stayed out of trouble and basically taught me how to fly aerobatics. Anyway, I found my way to Edna, Texas, in August 1996 for my first contest. I entered Basic and came in last place, but the hook was set. I have been enjoying this great sport ever since.

Aircraft: Pitts S-1T

Hobbies: Hobbies outside of aviation include running (I ran two marathons---Dallas and Boston), golf, skiing, and generally anything outdoors.

Interesting Facts: Most people know me as "Spanky." Actually that nickname came from Kurt Haukohl and Bill Marcellus. I can't tell why they called me that, but I will say how the name stuck. Turns out, the night before my first contest in Edna, Texas, Bill placed 3-inch stickers saying "Spanky" on the side of my Citabria. Well, that morning I blasted off to Edna not knowing they were there. Being new to the scene, when I arrived I was assigned a contest buddy. I can't remember the guy's name, but when we filled out the paperwork he simply put my name down exactly as it read on my airplane---Spanky. Needless to say, the name stuck.