Born: November 26, 1899 (Cheshire, England)
Biography:
Winifred Sawley Brown, also known as Winifred Adams, was an English sportswoman, aviator, and author. Born on November 26, 1899, in Cheshire, Brown’s father was the director of a butcher firm. However, her life took an unexpected turn when she was expelled from school at the age of 14 for writing graffiti featuring the headteacher on a toilet wall.
Brown’s passion for flying ignited in 1919 when she made her first flight at Hooton Park Aerodrome. This experience had a profound impact on her, leading her to pursue flying lessons at the Lancashire Aero Club at Woodford Aerodrome. Despite facing challenges as the first female member of the club, which restricted her participation in certain events reserved for male pilots, Brown persevered.
In 1927, she received her pilot’s license, marking a significant milestone in her aviation career. That same year, Brown posed for a series of portraits in her pilot’s outfit, captured by the renowned Lafayette company. One of these portraits, owned by Pinewood Studios, can be found in the National Portrait Gallery.
Brown’s determination to break gender barriers in aviation led her to compete in the Talbot O’Farrell Handicap at the Filton Aerodrome in May 1928. Encouraged by her father and boyfriend, she set her sights on the prestigious King’s Cup air race, which she attended in July 1929 at Squires Gate Aerodrome. Inspired by the event, Brown committed herself to enter the race the following year, aiming to establish her credibility in a field primarily dominated by men.
However, her decision to compete was met with resistance from the Lancashire Aero Club principals, who feared that her performance might reflect poorly on the club. Despite this opposition, Brown remained resolute, and in the winter of 1929 to 1930, she formally entered the 1930 King’s Cup air race.
The 9th edition of the race attracted a record entry list of 101 aircraft, piloted by renowned aviators such as Richard Waghorn, the Schneider trophy winner of 1929, and Augustus Orlebar, who had set the world speed record. Other notable participants included Geoffrey de Havilland, Lady Mary Bailey, Winifred Spooner, and Edgar Percival.
On July 4, 1930, Brown and her companion Ron Adams arrived at London Air Park, Hanworth, preparing for the race. However, she faced a setback when she was denied a room at the local aero club where a social pre-race event was taking place. Determined, Brown found alternative accommodations and focused on her preparation for the race.
Finally, on July 5, 1930, the King’s Cup air race commenced, starting and finishing at Hanworth. The challenging course spanned over 753 miles, taking the pilots on a circular route via Hamble. Despite intense competition, it was Brown’s skill and determination that propelled her to victory, making her the first woman to win the King’s Cup air race.
Brown’s groundbreaking achievement had a significant impact on the aviation community, proving that women were equally capable of excelling in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her win inspired countless other aspiring female aviators, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of women in aviation.
Throughout her life, Brown also devoted herself to writing, using her experiences in aviation as inspiration. Her written works provided valuable insights into her journey, serving as a testament to her remarkable career and the challenges she overcame.
Winifred Sawley Brown, an accomplished sportswoman, aviator, and author, made history as the first woman to win the King’s Cup air race. Her determination, perseverance, and groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire and empower women in aviation to this day.
Awards:
– Winner of the King’s Cup air race in 1930.