A new book, “Flight of a Lifetime”, a memoir by William Randolph, tells of the author’s quest — at the age of 76 — to build his own general aviation aircraft and circumnavigate the globe on his own.
Rather than choosing a life of quiet retirement interspersed with trips to the golf course, Randolph decided that he would embark on the flight of a lifetime at the age of 76. After building his single engine plane, Randolph flew it solo 27,000 nautical miles over three oceans, eight seas and three gulfs, as well as a few continents. From an emergency landing in a thunderstorm in Brazil to a near crash and aircraft fire in Thailand to pursuit by fighter jets over the Mediterranean, the journey was fraught with danger at every turn, he recalls.
“On every leg of my trip I encountered wonderful people and made new friends,” says Randolph. “It’s a tale of adventure that’s available to anyone who dares.”
Inspired to write the book by the many who have heard his tale, the author recalls his journey with fondness. Although he was locked up in a few different countries and communication difficulties led to all sorts of delays, Randolph describes these incidents with humor in this account intended to engage, entertain and inspire other adventurers.
About the Author: William Randolph was born in 1928 and joined the United States Navy early by lying about his age, fearful of missing World War II. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University and made a career in the computer industry. Flying since 1946, Randolph has owned eight planes. He currently resides in Santa Cruz, Calif.
“Flight of a Lifetime” is available for sale online at Amazon.com and other online booksellers.
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