Join us in this inspiring episode as Ricky Ellcock shares his journey from a wooden hut in Barbados to flying the Boeing 747 for Virgin Atlantic. Discover how he overcame poverty and racism, fueled by a dream ignited on a US aircraft carrier. Ricky's story highlights the importance of resilience and community support, showcasing how he transitioned from cricket to aviation despite facing numerous challenges. Tune in to hear about his struggles with depression and his triumphant return to the skies, proving that "black people can fly aeroplanes".

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Ricky Ellcock's journey from growing up in a wooden hut in Barbados, with no running water or electricity, to becoming a professional cricketer and pilot exemplifies resilience. He describes his childhood in a "little slave settlement" and the communal support he received from neighbours, which helped him navigate poverty and pursue education and sports.
• Ricky’s academic success allowed him to secure a scholarship to Malvern College, a prestigious institution in the UK. His parents incentivised his performance with rewards, such as a watch and a bicycle, which motivated him to excel and ultimately led to his acceptance into one of the top schools.
• Despite his father's discouragement, stating that "black people don't fly aeroplanes," Ellcock was determined to prove him wrong. This moment marked the beginning of his ambition to become a pilot, showcasing how he transformed a negative statement into motivation to succeed.
• After a successful cricket career that was cut short by injuries, Ricky faced a period of depression. He eventually found his way back to aviation, realising his childhood dream of flying after backpacking through the United States and discovering flight schools.
• Representation in aviation cannot be understated as there are very few black pilots. He hopes that his story will inspire young black individuals to pursue careers in aviation, demonstrating that success is possible regardless of one's background.

BEST MOMENTS 

“Cricket was my ticket out of poverty, a sport that gave me strength and purpose, and it all started with a simple game using a coconut branch as a bat."

"It doesn't matter how many times you fall down. What matters is how many times you get up." 

"There are not many role models... I hope that kids can look at something like this and think if he can do this, so can I." 

"This is a story of triumph really."

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Buy Balls to Fly by Ricky Ellcock with coupon code AIR20 and save 20%

Print copy - £14.40 + p&p https://www.thenightwatchman.net/buy/balls-to-fly-out-now

Ebook copy -  £3.99 https://www.thenightwatchman.net/buy/balls-to-fly-ebook

ABOUT THE GUEST 

Ricky Ellcock is a former English cricketer and qualified pilot. His autobiography, Balls to Fly, chronicles his journey from a Barbadian schoolboy with dreams of playing Test cricket for England to overcoming career-ending injuries. After struggling with depression, he became the first Black captain at Virgin Atlantic, surviving four life-saving brain surgeries.

ABOUT THE PODCAST

Welcome to Airchats with Airmacs with Sam Macadam, a series that opens doors to reveal the captivating stories of aviation professionals. Join us, your hosts from Airmacs Aviation, the air transport specialists, as we embark on a journey through the skies and into the lives of the people who keep the aviation industry soaring.

We sit down with industry experts to explore their unique experiences, challenges, and insights. From navigating the complexities of air travel to the innovations shaping the future of flight.

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