Brno, 10 July 2025 – Officer Cadet Arnošt Stelšovský, a first-year student in the Bachelor’s degree programme Military Flight Operations, specializing in Military Performance Pilot, received an award from the Rector-Commander of the University of Defence, Brigadier General Jan Farlík. The award recognized Stelšovský’s exceptional representation of the University at the international aviation competition Czech Microlight Open 2025.
“It’s a tremendous honour for me,” said Stelšovský as he accepted the award. “When the chairman and I asked for permission to attend the competition, I never expected to be approved – and certainly not to receive such strong support from the University. I truly appreciate it.”
The second edition of the Czech Microlight Open, held from 1–6 July 2025 at the Jaroměř airfield, is a prestigious event in the field of microlight aircraft navigation. Arnošt Stelšovský stood out in a highly competitive field, securing third place overall in the single-seat aircraft category. He also received the special award for Best Young Pilot, granted to the top competitor under the age of 25.
This competition marked Stelšovský’s debut in major international competition. “It was my first larger-scale international event, which also served as the national championship. The competition lasted several days and was divided into several disciplines – for example, precision landings and fuel efficiency, where fuel consumption is evaluated and penalties are awarded for deviations.”
One of the key challenges was navigating in unfamiliar terrain. “Some of the more demanding navigation routes are partially known in advance, while the rest must be constructed during flight using ground reference points. Flying in pairs helps, because the tasks can be split. But when I’m alone in the cockpit, it’s hard to decide what to grab first – the ruler or the aircraft controls. I only have two hands, but in moments like that, four would be better.”
For his performance, Stelšovský has been nominated to represent the Czech Republic at the 19th FAI World Microlight Championship, which will take place from 9–15 August 2025 in Chambley, France. This is the most prestigious event in the sport, where the world’s best microlight pilots will compete.




Rector-Commander Brigadier General Jan Farlík praised not only Stelšovský’s sporting achievements, but also his professional commitment. “I greatly value the fact that our students are increasingly engaging in such activities, thereby raising not only their own reputation and that of the University of Defence, but also that of the Czech Republic. Officer Cadet Stelšovský proves that even first-year students can achieve internationally recognized results. I wish him the best of luck at the competition in France.”
The University of Defence extends its heartfelt congratulations and wishes him many more safe take-offs and landings – and in August, favourable winds over France.
Photos: Karolína Pecharová, Lucie Sedláková
Author: Lucie Sedláková