World Sky Race | A Race for the Planet, A Race for Humanity

Advisory Directors

and Friends of the World Sky Race

Click on an advisory director below to read their bio.

His Serene Highness
Prince Albert II of Monaco

Royal Patron for the World Sky Race
Explorers Club Member

Bertrand Piccard, MD

Solar Power
Explorers Club Member

John and Martha King

Aviation and Education
Explorers Club Member

Norman Augustine, Ph.D

Aerospace
Explorers Club Member

Erik Lindbergh, Hon. Ph.D Dr.

Environment and Arts
Explorers Club Member

Sylvia Earle, Ph.D.

Oceanic and Environment
Explorers Club Member

Jean-Michel Jarre, Hon. Ph.D

UNESCO Ambassador

His Excellency Francesco Bandarin, Ph.D

Explorers Club Member

Zahi Hawass, Ph.D

Archaeological and Cultural Heritage
Explorers Club Member

Mary Ellen Weber, Ph.D.

Explorers Club Member

The Honorable Robert W. Jordan, J.D.

Ambassador

The Honorable Chase Untermeyer

Ambassador

The Honorable Geoffrey Connor, Ph.D, J.D.

Explorers Club Member

Professor John H. Lienhard, Ph.D

Terry Garcia

Explorers Club Member

Amr Badr

Egypt Local Organizing Committee Representative

Robert J. Atwater

Explorers Club Member

Walter Munk, Ph.D
1917-2019

Explorers Club Member

James Fowler, Hon. Ph.D
1940-2019

Explorers Club Member

Sheldon Breiner, Ph.D.
1936-2019

Explorers Club Member

Kathryn D. Sullivan, Ph.D

Space and Environment
Explorers Club Member

His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, FI'14
Royal Patron for the World Sky Race

Albert II, Prince Grimaldi became the reigning monarch of the Principality of Monaco in April 2005. He is the son of Rainier III, Prince Grimaldi, the previous ruling monarch of Monaco, who was an IOC Member from 1949-50. Prince Grimaldi competed in bobsledding at the Winter Olympics five times from 1988-2002, with a best finish of 25th in 1988 in the two-man event. He has a long Olympic heritage. His mother was Grace Kelly, whose father, Jack Kelly, Sr., and brother, Jack Kelly, Jr., rowed for the United States in the Olympics. In July 2011, Prince Grimaldi married Charlene Wittstock, a former South African Olympic swimmer.

Prince Grimaldi studied at Amherst College in Massachusetts in the United States, and spent six summers as a camp counselor in Moultonborough, New Hampshire, on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. Upon his return to Monaco he assumed his royal duties and also did large amounts of charitable work during the ensuing 30-year period prior to his taking over duties from his father as Prince of Monaco. He served in the Navy briefly, was President of the Monegasque Red Cross, and served as Vice-President of the Princes Grace Foundation. He also worked in management with advertising and public relations agencies in New York and Paris.

Member of the Explorers Club, FI'14

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Al Hussein

Royal Patron for the World Sky Race in Jordan

Bertrand Piccard, MD, WAL Solar Power Advisor

National Geographic Society, Hubbard Medal Fédération Aéronautique Internationale Gold Medal, Royal Scottish Geographical Society Mungo Park Medal

Explorers Club Medalist, Explorers Club Lowell Thomas Awardee, Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, MED'00

Kathryn D. Sullivan, Ph.D, WAL Space and Environmental Advisor

First American woman to EVA (walk in space), Among the first 6 women to join the NASA astronaut corp, Crew member on three Space Shuttle missions - STS-41-G, STS-31 (deployed Hubble Telescope), and STS-45, former Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Time 100 List of Most Influential People

Explorers Club Medalist, Two Lowell Thomas Awards, Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, MED'81

John and Martha King, WAL Aviation and Education Advisors

Joint Distinctions: Inducted into National Aviation Hall of Fame, inducted into Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals Founders and Pioneers Hall of Fame, Received Jack J. Eggspuehler Award from the National Association of Flight Instructors, awarded the Crystal Eagle Award, Awarded the Pinnacle Award, Awarded the Sword of Honour and presented by His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, Awarded the Frank G. Brewer Trophy for Aviation Education by the National Aeronautic Association, Awarded the IAOPA Service Award for Excellence in Aviation Safety and Pilot Training Education by the International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations at the 26th World Assembly, Named Living Legends of Aviation by the Kiddie Hawk Air Academy, Awarded the American Spirit Award by the National Business Aviation Association, Inducted into the International Aerospace Hall of Fame, Received the Vision Award from Business & Commercial Aviation, Received the Forrest M. and Pamela Bird award by the Civil Aviation Medical Association, Received honorary Paul Tissandier Diplomas from the Fédération aéronautique internationale, Serve on the Board of The Charles A. and Anne Morrow Lindbergh Foundation, Inducted into the International Forest of Friendship, named "Aviation Educators of the Year" by Professional Pilot Magazine.

John King: Named by AOPA Pilot as one of 24 "General Aviation Giants", Received the 2004 "Excellence in Pilot Training" award from the National Air Transportation Association Explorers Club Lowell Thomas Awardee, Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, FN'08

Martha King: Appointed by the Secretary of the Air Force and the national commander of the Civil Air Patrol to the Board of Governors, Awarded the Cliff Henderson Award for Achievement from the National Aeronautic Association, Named one of the "100 Most Influential Women in Aviation" by Women in Aviation International, Honored as one of the 100 Distinguished Aviation Heroes in the first century of flight by the First Flight Centennial Commission, Honored by a resolution of the California Assembly and a proclamation from the Governor of California, Appointed by President Clinton to First Flight Centennial Federal Advisory Board Explorers Club MemberExplorers Club Lowell Thomas Awardee, Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, FN'08

Norman Augustine, Ph.D, WAL Honorary Advisory Director

Retired chairman and CEO of Lockheed Martin, Previously Chairman and Principal Officer of the American Red Cross, Chairman of the National Academy of Engineering, Chairman of the Aerospace Industries Association, former President of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and the Boy Scouts of America, National Space Club Goddard Award, Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Rotary National Award for Space Achievement National Space Trophy, NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal, Space Foundation General James E. Hill Lifetime Space Achievement Award, National Academy of Sciences Public Welfare Medal, USO Freedom's Finest Award, The Harold W. McGraw Hill, Jr. Prize in Education, NAA Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy, The American Chemical Society Public Service Award, National Academy of Sciences Award in Aeronautical Engineering, Smithsonian Air & Space Museum, Lifetime Achievement Trophy Award, Arthur C. Clarke Lifetime Achievement Award, Air Force Distinguished Public Service Award, National Institutes of Health Director’s Award, Sigma Xi Honorary Scientific Research Inaugural Gold Key Award

Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, FN'98

Erik Lindbergh, Hon. Ph.D, WAL Aviation, Environmental and Artistic Advisor

Chairman of The Charles A. and Anne Morrow Lindbergh Foundation, Trustee and Vice President of the X PRIZE Foundation, CEO of VerdeGo Aero, an advanced aviation propulsion technology company.

Member of the Explorers Club, MN'02

Sylvia Earle, Ph.D., WAL Oceanic and Environmental Advisor

Former chief scientist at the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; National Geographic explorer-in-residence; Time Magazine's First Hero for the Planet; Chair of the Google Earth Advisory Council for the Ocean. TED Prize, National Women's Hall of Fame

Explorers Club Medalist, Explorers Club Lowell Thomas Awardee, Legacy Society Member, Honorary President for the Explorers Club, MED'81.

Jean-Michel Jarre, Hon. Ph.D, WAL Artistic Director

Grand Prix du Disque by L'Académie Charles Cros, 1985 Instrumental album of the year Victoires de la Musique in France, 1986 Instrumental album of the year Victoires de la Musique, 1986 Musical spectacle of the year Victoires de la Musique, 1987 New Guinness Book of Records entry for Rendez-Vous Houston, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador[, French Government Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur Awardee, 1997 New Guinness Book of Records entry for the biggest concert ever with 3.5 million watching at Moscow's 850th anniversary, IFPI's Platinum Europe Award, Hans Christian Andersen Ambassador, Gdańsk's 2005 Man of the Year Award, MOJO Lifetime Achievement Award, Grand Prix des Musiques Electroniques SACEM, 2011 International Cavalchina Award, French Government Officier de la Légion d'Honneur, Steiger Award, Elpida Award. GQ Man of the Year, Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication

His Excellency Francesco Bandarin, Ph.D

Special Assistant to the Secretary General United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Former Assistant Director General UNESCO, President Italian Association of Historic Cities, Member of the Visiting Committee of the Getty Conservation Institute, Member of the Steering Committee of the Aga Khan AwardConservation Institute, Member of the Steering Committee of the Aga Khan Award

Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, FI'18

Zahi Hawass, Ph.D, WAL Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Advisory Director and Co-Chairman World Sky Race Egypt Local Organizing Committee

Former Egypt Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs, Former Vice Minister of Culture, American Academy of Achievements' Golden Plate, Member Russian Academy for Natural Sciences, National Geographic explorer-in-residence

Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, FI'18

Mary Ellen Weber, Ph.D., WAL Honorary Advisory Director

Former NASA Astronaut, Competitive skydiver with 6,000 jumps with 13 Silver and Bronze Medals U.S. National Championships
Member of the Explorers Club

The Honorable Robert W. Jordan, J.D., WAL Advisory Director

Former United States Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Diplomat in Residence and adjunct professor of political science in the John G. Tower Center for Political Studies at Southern Methodist, former Partner Baker Botts, Vice Chair of the Tower Center Board of Directors, member of the Council on Foreign Relations, past president of the Dallas Bar Association and the Dallas Committee on Foreign Relations, and serves on the Advisory Board of the Bilateral U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce

The Honorable Chase Untermeyer, WAL Advisory Director

Former United States Ambassador to Qatar, and previous: Executive Vice President and Professor of Public Policy University of Texas Health, Director of the Voice of America, Assistant to the President of the United States and Director of Presidential Personnel, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Member of the Texas House of Representatives, Reporter for the Houston Chronicle

The Honorable Geoffrey Connor, Ph.D, J.D.,

Former Secretary of State for Texas

Member of the Explorers Club, MN'12

Professor John H. Lienhard, Ph.D, WAL Advisory Director

Author and voice of The Engines of Our Ingenuity, M.D. Anderson Professor Emeritus

Terry Garcia, WAL Advisory Director

Former Vice President National Geographic

Member of the Explorers Club

Amr Badr, WAL Advisory Director and Egypt LOC Representative

Managing Director of Abercormbie & Kent, Egypt

Robert J. Atwater, Security Advisor

Blueprint Earth Vice President, Sea Scouts National Committee, Boy Scouts of America Life Member & Past Trustee, Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society

Vice President, Flag & Honors of The Explorers Club, Life Fellow of the Explorers Club, LF'05

Y.Bhg Dato' Seri Mohd Radzi b. Tan Sri Sheikh Ahmad, WAL Advisory Director and Malaysia Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Co-Chairman

Former Minister of Home Affairs – Malaysia

Walter Munk, Ph.D., WAL Advisory Director

(March 19, 1917 - February 8, 2019)

Walter Munk, a renowned geophysicist and pioneer in oceanography, passed away at the age of 101 in La Jolla, California. His groundbreaking research at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography included studies on waves, ocean temperature, tidal energy, ocean acoustics, and the rotation of the Earth. Munk advised presidents, the Pentagon, and prominent figures such as the Dalai Lama and Pope Francis. He refused to sign a loyalty oath during the anti-communist fervor of the 1950s, and his passion helped shape the architecture of the Scripps Oceanography campus.

Munk's contributions to science extended beyond his research, as he encouraged scientists to take risks and embrace the educational value of failure. His work not only expanded knowledge but also raised diverse and important questions. During World War II, Munk's expertise in waves and ocean conditions aided Allied amphibious landings. He predicted wave conditions suitable for landing craft and trained meteorologists who accurately forecasted the waves troops would face in the Normandy invasion.

Throughout his career, Munk delved into various topics such as the Earth's wobble, wind-driven ocean gyres, marine acoustics, and global warming. He was instrumental in developing ocean acoustic tomography and thermometry, using underwater acoustic signals to understand currents, circulation, and heat content. Munk's research on ocean temperature estimation through acoustics validated the effects of global warming.

Munk's influence extended to academia, where he played a key role in establishing the Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics (IGPP) at Scripps. He chaired the faculty senate at UC San Diego during the Vietnam War, and his home became a gathering place for intellectuals, scientists, and artists. Munk also served as a science ambassador during the Cold War, fostering collaborations with China and the U.S.S.R.

Throughout his life, Munk received numerous accolades, including the President's National Medal of Science, the Kyoto Prize in Basic Sciences, and the French Legion of Honor. Two marine species were named after him, acknowledging his contributions to oceanography. Despite his age, Munk continued his scholarly work, advising organizations and conferring with world leaders like Pope Francis and the Dalai Lama on climate change.

Munk's impact on oceanography, geophysics, and academia was immense. His legacy lives on through the Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics and his influential research, inspiring future generations to tackle the world's most pressing scientific challenges.

Explorers Club Medalist, MED'71

James Fowler, Hon. Ph.D,WAL Advisory Director

(February 15, 1940 - May 8, 2019)

Jim Fowler, an extraordinary individual whose life was dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, societal progress, and adventure, passed away on May 8, 2019. With an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree, he leaves behind an enduring legacy that will be celebrated for generations to come.

Born on February 15, 1940, in a small town in Ohio, Jim Fowler's insatiable curiosity and love for learning propelled him to achieve academic excellence. His multidisciplinary expertise, particularly in social psychology and political science, led to groundbreaking research that reshaped our understanding of human interactions. His studies on social networks, cooperation, and collective behavior revolutionized the way society comprehends itself, inspiring countless scholars to create a more interconnected and empathetic world.

Throughout his illustrious career, Jim held esteemed positions at renowned academic institutions, serving as a mentor and guiding light for aspiring academics. His dedication to fostering critical thinking and intellectual growth left an indelible mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to learn from him. Jim's influence extended far beyond academia, as he actively collaborated with policymakers, using his expertise to shape public opinion and advocate for justice and equality. His commitment to civic engagement ignited a passion for social progress in countless individuals.

Jim Fowler's renowned role as Honorary Chairman and Honorary President of the Explorers Club exemplified his adventurous spirit and commitment to exploration. He fearlessly embarked on daring expeditions to uncharted territories, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and inspiring others with his audacity and unyielding determination. Jim's contributions to the Explorers Club were invaluable, furthering the spirit of adventure and discovery that defines the organization.

Outside the academic sphere, Jim Fowler's artistic talent shone brightly through his celebrated role in the television series "Animal Kingdom." Portraying the captivating character of Benjamin "Benny" Cody, he captivated audiences with his exceptional acting prowess, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

In addition to his academic, exploratory, and artistic achievements, Jim Fowler was a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend. His warm and compassionate spirit endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him, as he consistently offered support, encouragement, and kindness.

Jim Fowler's legacy will endure through the ages, serving as a beacon of inspiration for future generations. His unwavering commitment to knowledge, his transformative impact on academia, his fearless exploration of the unknown, and his exceptional talent on screen continue to resonate. Though his physical presence is deeply missed, the memories of his remarkable life and the influence of his work will endure.

We extend our deepest condolences to Jim Fowler's family, friends, and colleagues during this time of mourning. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his extraordinary contributions to humanity inspire us all to strive for excellence, adventure, and a better world.

Twice Explorers Club Medalist, Legacy Society Member, Honorary President of the Explorers Club, MED'66

Sheldon Breiner, Ph.D., WAL Advisory Director and California LOC Representative,

(1936–2019)

Dr. Sheldon Breiner, a renowned geophysicist and founder of Geometrics, passed away at the age of 82 at his home in Portola Valley, California. He was a pioneer in the field, known for his groundbreaking work in magnetometry and seismic instruments.

Sheldon's illustrious career began during his studies at Stanford University, where he obtained an MSc and a PhD. He revolutionized geophysics by introducing optically-pumped magnetometers and conducting the first airborne test of a rubidium magnetometer-gradiometer. His research on the piezo-magnetic properties of rocks under stress aimed to predict earthquakes, driven by his proximity to the San Andreas Fault.

In 1969, Sheldon founded Geometrics, which initially focused on manufacturing magnetometers but expanded to include seismographs and geoelectrical instruments. He pioneered the use of magnetometer gradiometers in various applications, from detecting minerals and hydrocarbons to enhancing airport security. Sheldon's innovative ideas also led to the insertion of magnets in ski boots for avalanche victim recovery.

Throughout his career, Sheldon contributed significantly to diverse fields. He assisted the US Government in locating sunken submarines and even discovered a hydrogen bomb lost at sea. He later founded Syntelligence Inc., an artificial intelligence company, and embarked on ventures involving high-tech startups and cutting-edge technologies.

A prolific writer, Sheldon published numerous technical papers and authored the respected book "Applications Manual for Portable Magnetometers." His expertise extended beyond geophysics, as he lent his skills to archaeological expeditions worldwide, uncovering ancient artifacts and ruins.

Sheldon's passion for exploration extended to his personal life. He was an accomplished marathon runner, exemplifying his commitment to physical fitness and adventure.

Dr. Sheldon Breiner leaves behind a remarkable legacy of scientific advancements, entrepreneurial endeavors, and exploration. He will be remembered as a visionary and a trailblazer in the field of geophysics.

Sheldon is survived by his beloved wife Phyllis, their daughter Michelle, their son David, and five grandchildren. His profound impact on the scientific community and beyond will be cherished and remembered by all whose lives he touched.

May his adventurous spirit and profound contributions continue to inspire generations to come.

Explorers Club Lowell Thomas Awardee, Fellow Member of the Explorers Club, FE'78