Japan's First Air Race Pilot

The race course is set using giant pylons up to 25 meters high. Imagine a ski slalom race for an easy understanding. Nimble propeller planes, used for aerobatics, "fly" through the course at speeds up to 370 km/h (the regulated upper limit). The gravitational force (G) experienced during turns around the pylons can reach approximately 10G. It's an unimaginable world where you suddenly feel ten times heavier. A total of 14 pilots compete in this race, many of whom are seasoned veterans with experience as pilots in air forces or aerobatic teams in various countries.

Among them, Muroya, who competes as a Japanese pilot, is one of the few pilots from a civilian background. He has been fascinated by the sky since childhood, joining the gliding club in college and becoming completely captivated by its allure. He earned his pilot's license in the United States with funds saved from part-time jobs, forging a unique path to becoming an aerobatic pilot.

Currently based in Fukushima, he participates in the Red Bull Air Race, performs aerobatics at numerous air shows, and works to promote aviation culture in Japan.

Muroya had a strong start in the first race of 2015 in Abu Dhabi, finishing in 6th place overall. Great expectations were placed on his performance in the Chiba race. In the final round of 14, a head-to-head match, he not only defeated his opponent but also set the day's fastest time and a course record of 50.779 seconds. The crowd's excitement reached its peak.

In the second round of qualifying, the round of 8, Muroya faced Paul Bonhomme, a pilot with the most victories in the series' history. Although Muroya achieved a good time, he was disqualified for violating safety regulations due to a turn exceeding 10G. Muroya commented, "Since it was Bonhomme, the team decided to go 100%. The flight itself felt good, but in the end, I put in 101% effort." This statement suggests he fell victim to a trap precisely because of his strong performance. This was also the first race with a newly introduced aircraft, and his comments hinted at the aircraft's excellent performance, making us anticipate podium finishes and even a victory from the third race onwards.

"Since it was Bonhomme, the team decided to go 100%. The flight itself felt good, but in the end, I put in 101% effort." Muroya's comment suggests he fell victim to a trap precisely because of his strong performance. This was also the first race with a newly introduced aircraft, and his comments hinted at the aircraft's excellent performance, making us anticipate podium finishes and even a victory from the third race onwards.

Page02.Muroya Favors a Pilot's Watch

Muroya Loves Breitling

Breitling serves as the official timekeeper for the Air Race. Accurate timekeeping is essential for racing, and aircraft and watches have an inseparable connection. Not only are they reliable instruments in emergencies when power fails, but many pilots use them regularly because the rotating slide rule allows for easy calculation of various values. Muroya is one such pilot.

A High-Function Model with a Second Time Zone Display Added to the Flagship Model

The current "Chronomat" series, launched in 2009 with the fully in-house developed and manufactured chronograph movement, Caliber 01, has since seen the introduction of various derivative models with added functions. For pilots who travel the world, a GMT model with a second time zone display, allowing them to simultaneously track the local time at their destination and the time in their home country, is extremely convenient.

This "Chronomat 44 GMT" is equipped with Caliber B04, which features this second time zone display function. The highly accurate and functionally impeccable chronograph is enhanced with a central 24-hour hand for displaying the home time, making it incredibly useful for international travel. It's a fitting choice for Muroya, who not only competes in races worldwide but also frequently travels for training. It's a watch recommended not only for pilots but also for anyone who travels abroad frequently.

A Special Model for Japanese Fans

The "Chronomat" series inherits Breitling's history of developing chronographs as "instruments for the wrist." This model is based on the 41mm case size Chronomat series. Inside the black DLC-coated case lies the fully in-house developed and manufactured movement, Caliber 01. The red color, fitting for a Japan-exclusive model, stands out against the black body.

This model, created for Japanese fans, is limited to only 300 units. Due to its popularity among fans and the fact that Muroya, who competes in the "Red Bull Air Race," also favors it, it is also known as the "Muroya Model."

Breitling Japan
Tel. 03-3436-0011

http://www.breitling.co.jp