Sunday, August 18, 2013

Fist time attending Reno National Championship Air Races ?


So this will be your first visit to the World Famous Reno National Championship Air Races held at Stead Airport just north of Reno.  You ask what do I expect when I arrive?  Well here are a few hints to help you get started and hopefully an enjoyable experience.

How are you getting there, car or plane?

If by car, you will need lodging.  Go on line and do a search for what your budget will allow and then make reservations to secure your room.  Next you will drive to Stead Airport North of town approximately 12-14 miles depending on where you stay.  You will then park in the general admission parking lot and walk in to the gates.  If you fly in and rent a car this will apply as well.  You can either buy your tickets at the gate or online through RARA website.  You will have some decisions to make since there are several options available.  There is general admission, reserve seating, box seats etc.  Again go online to RARA (http://www.airrace.org/index.php) and see what will work best for you.  You will also have an opportunity to buy pit passes as well and is highly encouraged.

If you are flying in again you will need lodging.  You will have some options for transportation, you can either rent a car or use the shuttles that will be available at some casinos in town.  I have stayed at the Peppermill in Reno and John Ascuaga's Nugget in Sparks.  Again chose whatever suits your budget.  Both have excellent on site restaurants available or diners close by as well as the other casinos.  The shuttles are very good as they drop you off and pick you up right at the front gate and makes life a lot less stressful.  They run several buses both in the morning and after the races so you will need to think ahead and be sure you don't miss the last one.

Once you are there be sure to pick up an program to see what the schedule is and what performers are performing.  Be sure you have sun block and a hat to protect you from the sun which can be intense during the day.  Drink lots of water to keep hydrated.  If your sitting in either the reserved or general sections it is highly recommended to bring one of those portable stadium seats with the cushion and backrest cause after awhile those steel bench seats get very hard and the back starts to hurt.  Take frequent breaks to hydrate and cool down now and then.  To be honest there is no bad seat, you can see the racers and performers from anywhere on the grounds   Only thing is in general seating if you leave your seat you may not have it when you return that's where reserved seating works a little better.  You won't be able to use umbrellas in the stands for obvious reasons as you will be interfering with other peoples line of site.  Believe me when I say that a day at the races will be awesome and you will be tired at the end of the day but happy.  So get your reservations, plan ahead and have the time of your life for your first time and I am sure it will not be your last time.  Only 24 days before the races begin.



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