As we prepare for the new season, let’s
review what happened last year – organizationally – with RARA and what it means
for the races – going forward.
It was Mike Crowell’s first year at the helm
of RARA, the governing body for the National Championship Air Races. He joined
RARA as President and CEO in February of 2015. His extensive executive
experience in Sales, Marketing and Operations with the Coca-Cola Company brings
a level of leadership and business acumen we haven’t seen in years.
“The National
Championship Air Races is not only the fastest motor sport in the world and an
event that is followed by aviation enthusiasts from around the world, but it’s
a treasure for our community,” said Crowell. “Our goal for this year was to
look at this event like a business and operate in such a way that would ensure
it is around for many years to come. We had to make some tough decisions to get
our costs in line, but with the support of our board, staff, event chairs and
dedicated volunteers, we were able to turn a budgeted $630,000 loss for the
year into a $100,000 projected profit, which is exactly what we needed to do.”
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| Voodoo awaiting the start of the race Credit Tim Adams Photography |
Preparation for the 2016 Reno Air Races is on
schedule. John Agather, Chairman of the Reno Air Races Board, shared this with
us.
Last year was
survival. This year is stabilization. Next year is growth. We have the BEST
fans in the world. I've never seen a more dedicated, knowledgeable, and loyal
fan base. I think we have the largest major, motorized sports event in the
world that's manned almost exclusively by volunteers. Where else but in this
great country would you find that?
Actually, this should be a great year, with RARA making a profit last
year. For the first time in many years, they were in the black. That is great
for their survival and for setting up for the future.
The Blue Angels will be returning in 2016. This means the crowds will be
even better. While over 150,000 attended last year’s event, we should see this
grow significantly.
We just heard that the Wings of Blue will be part of the Opening
Ceremonies this year. They are the US Air Force Skydiving Team and are quite
impressive to watch.
More on the Air Show attractions in the future.
NBC Sports Special
How many of you were able to catch the Reno Air Races one-hour Special
on NBC Sports? Truthfully, it was a great way to get a little more exposure for
our sport. NBC did a nice job showing the highlights – of course, there is always
of room for improvement. I would like to
see them lengthening the show and covering the other classes – but it
definitely whets the appetites of speed lovers who were able to catch the
show. I hope they replay it over and
over to get as much coverage as possible.
Air Race 1
Air Race 1 World Cup has been
organizing additional races for the International Formula 1 Class. They had a
successful racing series in 2015 and had planned 4 additional races in 2016. Unfortunately,
they are suspending their schedule for 2016. More when we know.
National Aviation
Heritage Invitational
The National Aviation Heritage Invitational (NAHI) has also decided to
suspend their plans for 2016.
The Invitational is all about recognizing the excellent preservation and
restoration of vintage aircraft – all in airworthy condition. This event has
been taking place on the east side of the ramp, near the Jet Class Pit Area.
Fans would come in and view the beautiful antiques and vote on their favorites.
Later in the week, a grand trophy would be presented to the winner. It is a bit
of a trek from the Pits but a great addition to the races.
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One of the beautiful antiques displayed each year at NAHI
Credit: Tim Adams
|
NAHI sent out a press release saying they will be suspending their event
this year at the National Championships Air Races (NCAR) and did not give a
specific reason. RARA was surprised to hear this – since they felt they were
still in negotiations. It seems with the Blue Angels on the ramp this year; last
time they flew out of Naval Air Station Fallon, space is quite limited.
RARA sent out their Press Release basically asking NAHI to reconsider.
Let’s hope they can work this out. It’s a great addition to the show and many
of the fans enjoy the displays.
Conclusion
Many more exciting things are coming. We will be covering everything
leading up to the Races in September. But, this year will be worth attending.
See you there!
Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing
Pylon Place
Ruby Red Racing
Pylon Place
Thanks to Tim Adams for supplying this month's Photography.
