News/Press Releases

SOUTH MISSISSIPPI (WLOX) -

For many people, family activities may include going to the beach, or going out to eat. But the Carastros are not just any family. For them, the sky is the limit.

Three generations of female aviators, the Carastro Flyers take their get-togethers above the clouds. Currently, they're preparing for a cross-country air race.

The youngest of the trio, Danielle Carastro, will be entering her junior year of high school in the fall at Saint Martin. It is her second year to participate in the Air Race Classic.

"It's just a whole different view and take on life. You can see the the world from a different perspective," said Carastro. "Last year, since it was my first year, I was mind-blown. I was just experiencing a whole bunch of new things and I was just so excited and I was seeing a whole new world."

For Danielle's aunt, Susan Carastro, it's a continuation of tradition. She's overjoyed to have a new member on the team.

"My mom and I have done this for almost 12 years together. This will be my nieces second year with us. We're so excited that she's finally of age. We've been planning this since she was a baby," said Susan.

According to Marie, flying is a way of life for her family. She's been a pilot for almost 60 years and flown in several races. She sees the experience as more of a chance to bond with family than a set tradition.

Regardless, it's something she cherishes.

"I think it's pretty fabulous that we all share a common interest, and this is why we do the race," said Marie.

The multi-day race will take the Carastro Flyers from Prescott, Ariz. to Daytona Beach, Fla. with eight stops in between. They will be competing against more than 100 other pilots. To keep up with the race and how the Carastros are doing, visit http://www.airraceclassic.org/race-information.htm. The Carastros are unit number 22.