Sunward We Climb

This is the Canadian Forces' Air Demonstration Team, the "Snowbirds," as they begin their pullup at the bottom of a loop. Darting through patches of sunlight, they will now begin their climb sunward leaving Waterton Lake far below as they climb to a realm where the sun relinquishes its power only to night.

The "Snowbirds" made their first appearance at Yellowknife, Northwest Territories in May, 1972. Since then, they have displayed their aeronautical skills to over 30 million spectators throughout North America. They fly the Canadair CT114 Tutor jet trainers. Their routine consists of a fast paced and at times, heart stopping, series of formations and solo maneuvers lasting 25 minutes. All team members are volunteers and are selected each fall from applicants throughout the forces.

The background for "Sunward We Climb" is Waterton Lake and The Prince of Wales Hotel located in the southwestern corner of Alberta, Canada. The cloud shadowed mountains in the distance are in Glacier National Park.