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Dare
to Dream

Get ready for an epic tale of triumph!

This is the story of Maciej Kulaszewski, the world aerobatic champion who turned his dream into a reality.

Hi! I’m Maciej Kulaszewski

I'm the reigning World Aerobatic Champion at the intermediate level and instructor at the British Aerobatic Academy. Let me take you on a thrill ride through my sky-high journey.

Here are my secrets to success you can apply to your own goals. Whether it's in business, self-development, the arts or beyond, you too can soar to new heights.

Just remember, it all starts with a dream!

Maciej KulaszewskiMaciej Kulaszewski
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Turn your own dream into reality – visualise it now!

Chapter 1

Looking Up

When I was little, I was captivated by the airplanes flying overhead in my town. I watched as they flew low to the ground, performing agricultural tasks like spraying crops.
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When I was littleWhen I was littleWhen I was littleWhen I was little
As I grew older and started thinking about my future, I started considering the possibility of becoming a pilot. The dream of flying and seeing the world from above was always there. Eventually, I asked myself, why not give it a try?
Even if I failed, the world wouldn't stop spinning. With that, I made the decision to pursue my dream.

After all, airplanes were invented and flown by people, so why couldn't I learn it too?

Chapter 2

Reaching For the Sky

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As a young teenager, I would stare at the sky and wonder how I could make that dream a reality. So, I started investigating what it would take to become a pilot.

I learned that it was a technical subject, requiring a good understanding of mathematics and physics and fluency in English. These were already my favorite subjects in school, but I knew that I would need to study and work hard to save the funds for training.

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The financial aspect of becoming a pilot was daunting. I was determined to fly and become a fighter pilot. I saw it as an investment in my future.

During my teenage years, I took any opportunity to earn money. I was determined to save enough money to take a gliding course.

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Chapter 3

Magic in the Air

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As it turned out, I loved it. I can't describe the feeling — it was beyond words. I felt like I belonged there, like this was where I was meant to be. It was a magical sensation.
Finally, in April 2007, it was time for my first flight. I was incredibly anxious. I had put in so much effort, but what if I didn't like it? I would have to reconsider my entire life plan.
As it turned out, I loved it. I can't describe the feeling — it was beyond words. I felt like I belonged there, like this was where I was meant to be. It was a magical sensation.

From the moment I took off, I felt like I was in the right place

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Chapter 4

Sixth Time Lucky

I applied to the Polish Air Force Academy, also known as the "School of Eagles." I was determined to make it happen. However, due to strict medical requirements for military pilots, I got rejected. In fact, I was rejected six times.
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I applied to the Polish Air Force Academy, also known as the "School of Eagles." I was determined to make it happen. However, due to strict medical requirements for military pilots, I got rejected. In fact, I was rejected six times.
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Then something changed. The Academy introduced a profile for civilian pilots, and I was able to study aeronautical engineering and specialize in piloting. To receive a university grant, there was a fierce competition based on grades and flight hours. Despite having good grades, I had limited flight hours under my belt compared to others.
As a teenager earning money only with summer jobs, I just could not compete with others who had hundreds of hours in the air.
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I started thinking it was the end of my dream. But I never gave up

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Chapter 5

Daring
to Dream

Two years ago, I was sitting around with my best friend, reminiscing about the years we spent at the Academy. We remembered the questions we had about pushing so hard for our dreams, especially since we didn't come from privileged backgrounds. We wondered if we were making the right choice.
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Fast forward, my best friend is now a commercial pilot for an airline, and I am a flying instructor, aerobatic coach, and competitor. The journey was long and challenging, but it has paid off.
Now, I am living my dream, and I am grateful for every moment I get to spend in the sky.

The challenges made me stronger and more determined to succeed

Chapter 6

First Gold

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Medals
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By the time I finished my studies in 2016, I decided to come to Great Britain and start a small business. I began training at the British Aerobatic Academy under the supervision of a great instructor, Adrian Willis.

In 2017, I started competing in aerobatics competitions and I couldn't be happier doing what I love.

Award
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One of the most exciting moments of my journey was on August 31, 2017, when the UK Championships began. I won, took first place, and the title of British Champion in the Sportsman class!

Although I had bigger wins later – in 2022, I won 5 gold medals and the title of World Champion in Intermediate Aerobatics at the 3rd FAI World Intermediate Open Aerobatic Championship in Toruń – my first win was an incredible moment that I will always cherish.

Award
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Chapter 7

Calculated Risk

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Aerobatic flying is often considered an extreme sport, but to me as a pilot, it's a calculated risk. I have extensively studied and trained to understand the ins and outs of my aircraft and the strict regulations and procedures necessary to respond to various situations.
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Aerobatic flying is often considered an extreme sport, but to me as a pilot, it's a calculated risk. I have extensively studied and trained to understand the ins and outs of my aircraft and the strict regulations and procedures necessary to respond to various situations.
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I once faced a crisis while flying. My aircraft sustained damage that wasn't noticeable on the ground. However, I was able to land it safely. The key to success in this situation was remaining calm, which allowed me to think clearly and make the right decisions, even in the face of crisis.

Aerobatics to me is like playing chess. It also requires thinking ahead, anticipating problems, and preparing for different scenarios

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Chapter 8

Dancing With
the Wind

Mental preparation for a flight is just as crucial as physical preparation. To calm my mind and clear my thoughts, I have a unique routine - 'dancing' through my sequence. I put on music and make silly movements with my hands, mimicking the maneuvers I'll be performing in the air.
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Chapter 9

Dream Team

It's a common misconception that aerobatic flying is a one-man sport. In reality, I have a team – my family, my coach, my boss, and my friends.
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Even though they cannot always be with me during competitions, unlike in F1, I realize that I do have a team of people who support me and help me succeed in my career.
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Chapter 10

Next Chapter

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When I first started in the world of aerobatics, I had no expectations. But as I competed and progressed, my goals and desires began to evolve.
Yes, I've achieved the title of world champion at the intermediate level, but there are still advanced and ultimate levels to reach for. My sights are set on the 15th World Advanced Aerobatic Championship in Las Vegas, USA.
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When I first started in the world of aerobatics, I had no expectations. But as I competed and progressed, my goals and desires began to evolve.
Yes, I've achieved the title of world champion at the intermediate level, but there are still advanced and ultimate levels to reach for. My sights are set on the 15th World Advanced Aerobatic Championship in Las Vegas, USA.

The sensation of freedom and joy that comes from aerobatics is unmatched

I also have the goal of becoming the national champion of both Britain and Poland in the same year, which would be a significant achievement for a Polish person living and training in the UK.

My ultimate goal, however, is to promote aviation and attract more people to it.

The sensation of freedom and joy that comes from aerobatics is unmatched

I hope to inspire others to take up this amazing sport, as it's all about pushing yourself to new limits and experiencing the thrill of flying in three dimensions. This is something that more people should have the opportunity to experience.
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