Reno National Championship Air Races

 Reno National Championship Air Races has a rich history of which I haven't written about.

1929 Cleveland started air racing with a lot of fan fair.  Below is a good link to an article describing the air races back then.  The racing in Cleveland came to an end in 1949.  They only made it 20 years where Reno lasted 60 years.  That in it self is quite the accomplishment.  Reno Air Racing Association has done an exceptional job from year to year to present a world renowned class air show and air races.  People come from all continents to watch them.  

https://clevelandhistorical.org/items/show/151

This year things are changing from day to day which is to be expected.  There is a lot going on behind the scenes .  An up date on the classes of aircraft racing has changed, the Biplanes will not be racing.

The most important thing to take into consideration is aviation racing history is being made so please come and witness it this year.

Please do not be discouraged that this is the last year the races will be held in Reno.  Focus on looking forward to a new era in air racing history.  I don't think you will be disappointed.

Here are some shots from the past of the Unlimited class.  What is incredible is these are World War II era aircraft that the fans love.

Thom Richard in Precious Metal 2014 P-51XR, we lost Precious Metal when it caught fire on the ramp coming to the races

Jim Tobul F4U-4 Corsair and Rod Lewis in a F7F Tigercat La Patrona 2014

Robert "Hoot" Gibson pilot of 232 Hawker Sea Fury in the pits 2014

F7F Tigercat La Patrona nose art in the pits 2014

Pete Law discussing Thermal Dynamics with crew of Precious Metal 2014

 Well folks it has been awhile since I wrote anything about the Reno National Championship Air Racing.  If you haven't heard this, it will be the last year the races will be held out at Stead Airport.  This will end  six decades of racing in Reno NV.  There is a rich history there with iconic races that were exciting and fun to observe.  The Association is working hard to find a new venue to move the races to.  As you can imagine this will be extremely difficult task taking into account all the logistics and infrastructure needed to host this event.  So what's really important is don't get discouraged that the races are done.  It may take some time to work through all the issues at hand but they feel they can accomplish this.  This year the ticketing will be hit hard so get your tickets now.  As before in my posts there are six classes, Formula 1, Biplanes, T-6's, Sport, Jet, and Unlimited.  All are fun to watch.  Below are some pictures I have taken over the years.  Some will ask who is showing up, that is always a surprise.  So come and enjoy the event as it will be a very integral part of aviation history.

Formula 1

Biplanes

T-6's

Sport

Jet

Unlimited