What does it all mean…

If you keep up with National Championship Air Racing (NCAR) news during the off season, you probably have read several press releases about the Unlimited Division of the National Air-racing Group (UD-NAG) and a Safety Stand Down for the 2013 NCAR. This was followed quickly by the announcement of the new Unlimited & Warbird Racing Class (UWRC). My goal in this column is to present to you a little history and hopefully answer some questions about the future of Unlimited Racing at Reno.  

History of NAG

The National Air racing Group was founded in the 1970’s by several Northern California air racing enthusiasts. Originally called the Northern Area Group of the Professional Race Pilots’ Association (PRPA), they later split off from PRPA and started their own group.  This organization grew to be the largest and most active air race organization, with over 2000 members scattered throughout the world. A recognized member of the International Council of Air Shows, NAG is a non-profit California corporation.

NAG offered their services to various racing classes, basically providing them with legal protection, support with race responsibilities and administrative matters as well as training officials, officiating, erecting pylons, facilitating negotiations with the FAA and assisting in designing and certifying new potential race venues.

Over time the other race classes left NAG and developed their own associations, (PRPA for Biplanes, Racing Jets, Inc., T-6 Racing Association, International Formula 1 Air Racing, and Sport Class Air Racing). The Unlimited Division is the only race class still directly associated with NAG.

At some point, NAG developed into more of a Fan Club for Air Racing, except for the Unlimited Division, which supported Unlimited Racing. UD-NAG is the governing body for Unlimited Racing. They are accredited by the FAA to speak for the race class. They are responsible for training and certification of the members for their class; they have their own rules, their own technical specifications and inspections. They operate as an umbrella organization for Race Pilots and Race Aircraft Owners and have fought for many years for the continued safe operations of Unlimited Racing.

How does this differ from what the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) does? Well, RARA provides the venue. They provide overarching rules and structure and manage the event.

In a perfect world, these organizations would work together to bring exciting racing and a safe environment to the racers and the fans. As one race pilot said, “Keep the racers safe and you keep the public safe”.

A line up of P-51 Mustangs via Rob "Phred" Miller

What changed?

After the horrible Galloping Ghost crash of 2011, the FAA and RARA stepped in to alter the Unlimited (and Jet Class) Race Course. The changes were made to create more of a barrier from the deadlines, the areas that mark the outer boundary of our race course, and to allow for a great distance from the spectators.  

The goal was to “soften” the course and to keep things safer. What the pilots found, however, was that the course led to higher g-forces, instead of lower. They also found the old “Valley of Speed” was being tightened, especially as aircraft made the critical turn from pylons 7-8-9 to home.

The other issue was a maximum altitude restriction of 250’ (or 314’ on some areas of the course). The racers felt this altitude ceiling created an added complexity, as one of them put it – “We’re racing in a donut”. The minimum altitude is 50’ the max is 250’ so, 8 aircraft race inside a 200’ donut in the sky. So far, so good – until you consider that the average wingspan of an Unlimited Racer is between 40’ and 50’.

I use the example, Gold Heat 3A 2010, Strega’s average speed was over 473 mph and Here Kitty, Kitty and Bossman – two F7F Tigercats, were averaging 342 mph. So, as Steven Hinton in Strega was coming around the course, he was closing in on two Tigercats, both with over 50’ wingspans, with a closure rate of 130 mph. Pylon on the left, deadline on the right and a new maximum altitude ceiling above – where does he go?

When I asked what a racer was to do in that situation, I was told that “the overtaking racer should throttle back until he/she felt it was safe to pass”. This comment comes from someone who clearly doesn’t understand the fine line of detonation that is an Unlimited Racing Engine. We slowly move the throttle up, but we do not adjust up and down during the race. It’s all out, full throttle. It is unrealistic to “throttle back” – especially when you’re coming up on traffic at that incredible speed. And then, to be able to throttle back up – this scenario would certainly cause engine problems all over the course. Also, the how much time does it take an Unlimited Racing Engine to slow down 130 mph - who knows. 

The Issue

All the UD-NAG asked is that this wording is added to RARA’s Rules of Competition to say:

 “All racers are advised that deviations above the maximum race altitude will not result in a rules violation or penalty if such maneuver is deemed to be in furtherance of flying safety by the pilot in command and if such deviation is followed by a safe and reasonably prompt return to the maximum race altitude.”

Yep, that’s it. They wanted it to be in writing that if they needed to go above the 250’ AGL max for a safe passing line, or to get out of prop wash, or for whatever reason, that they would not be disqualified. They did not want it to be left to chance, they wanted their racers to know they could deviate if necessary, and they would not be violated. They also wanted to have the Unlimited Class provide input to the Contest Committee in case of an altitude deviation. The Unlimited Class knows the course, and the Contest Committee, while a professional and significant group of individuals, does not.

Unlimited Gold via Rob "Phred" Miller

What this means to racing

As UD-NAG has been saying since February, they wanted an answer by June 14, 2013 or they would convey to their members that they do not believe the course is safe. After safety discussions broke down, the UD-NAG Board voted unanimously to call for a Safety Stand Down. They told their members that the current rules proposed by RARA and the FAA may lead to an unsafe and potentially dangerous racing venue.

Absent the requested safety deviation rule, the UD-NAG believes the risk of another accident is too great to shoulder and therefore RARA, the FAA, UWRC and the UD-NAG Racers are on their own.

RARA countered with announcing the new Unlimited and Warbird Racing Class. It had to be done. Ticket sales were in jeopardy, questions about the safety stand down were flying and some kind of move had to be made.

But, what does it mean for September?

There are some unanswered questions. Is the new UWRC accredited by the FAA? Will they fly the course as it is without any changes?

Who will be on the Board of Directors for the new organization? The press release mentioned Bill “Tiger“ Destefani will be the President. But, who else will be involved? Is this organization part of RARA? If so, is that a conflict of interest?

How will the new organization certify racers? Will there be another PRS just for the new group? Who will join, who will not. What about the purse?

Who will be on the ramp in September? Who will stay home? When will we know?

Unlimiteds being towed out via Tim Adams

What happens next…

Right now, we wait and see. The hope is that this will all shake out and there will be Unlimited Racers on the Ramp in September.

Stay tuned, until then… fly low, fast and turn left – but don’t go over 250’ AGL. 

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing
The Pylon Place

Another Great Planes of Fame Airshow and PRS Preview

Ignoring the naysayers, Planes of Fame goes right ahead and puts on an amazing Airshow – again. Nearly 40,000 people were in attendance to witness history and a terrific show.

Missing Man Formation
Thank you - Bruce Croft - 20W

This year, the Airshow celebrated the history of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning. There are only seven airworthy P-38s in the world today, and five of them were in the skies over the Chino Airport. Another P-38 on display, a photo-recon variant, made up the sixth P-38 at the show that weekend.

The formation of five was breathtaking. I don’t think we’ll ever see something like that again, sadly.

Five P38s - great shot Rob "Phred" Miller - thank you! 

The rest of the Airshow was also very exciting. Aerobatic performance from the great Sean D. Tucker was another highlight. Other aerobatic displays included Rob Harrison, John Collver, Clay Lacy’s Learjet routine and Margi Stiver’s terrific wingwalking with Lee Oman at the wheel.

Sean D. Tucker - The Happiest Man in Aviation

Another crowd favorite, the N9M Flying Wing – the only one of its kind in the world – is also exciting to watch. Three B-25s, two C-47s flying in formation and a beautiful PBY really added something to the show this year.

The Flying Wing - one of a kind!

As always, the aircraft are not the only stars of the day; the Airshow also honored several veterans’ groups during the event. Listening to them tell their tales of service is a great way to remember why they are The Greatest Generation.

Pilots and crew from the National P-38 Association, the 80th Fighter Group, the 91st Bomber Group, the 506th Fighter Group, and veterans sponsored by the Veterans History Project: John Knapp 44th Infantry, Celso Jaquez 6th Marines, Geoff Blackman VP-23 Navy, and Muriel Engelman Army Nurse were among the group sharing their stories.

P-38 Noses - Lined up at dawn
Thank you - Bruce Croft - 20W

Even with losing one of their largest sponsors this year, Planes of Fame put on another terrific event. I have already circled the first weekend in May 2014 and will be there again next year!

If you cannot attend their show, consider becoming a member and supporting their efforts. Go to their website and click on the JOIN button.

Reno Updates - PRS

It’s still too early to know who will be in attendance at the 50th Races. However, we do know that there are  RECORD number of Rookies attending the Pylon Racing Seminar (Rookie School) this year. Again, this is a very positive sign for the event that so many of us love. You should stay tuned for more information on what to expect.

We have heard that Breitling has increased their sponsorship of the Air Races – which is great news. They are also bringing Yves Rossy – the Breitling “Jetman”. This is something all of us want to see! Can you imagine a man with a jet pack flying the pylons? YES!

Other performers include The Patriots Jet Team, another crowd favorite. David Martin, Michael Goulian, Jim Pietz and the amazing antics of Kent Pietsch will round out the show.

If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, what are you waiting for? We will see you in September to celebrate the Reno Air Races 50th Anniversary. I can’t wait!

Thanks again to my wonderful photographer friends, this month Bruce Croft and Rob Miller were kind enough to donate their artwork for us to share. This column would not be the same without friends.

Sequester and Airshows

We recently learned that the Blue Angels, the USAF Thunderbirds, the Golden Knights and all the Military Demo Teams have cancelled their entire Airshow season due to the Sequester. The Military will not take part in Airshows in any way – not static displays, not flying, nothing.  This information has sent the Airshow Industry back to their drawing boards to see how they can move on from here.

The Military Demonstration Teams are an enormous draw for these events.  Military Teams can increase attendance by up to 30% while bringing many attendees from long distances which increase tourism for their cities.  The draw for the communities is estimated to be a minimum of $2M in tourism, hotels, restaurants, etc.

John Cudahy, President of the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) has said, "If the military does not participate in Airshows during the 2013 season, the economic impact will reach far beyond the show itself and deeply into the communities in which those shows are held.”

We can point to what Fleet Week is like in San Francisco with the Blue Angels. The entire town (except for the haters) comes out for the waterside party. The streets are crowded, the hotels and restaurants are full – and now… it’s also cancelled.

Christine Falvey, spokeswoman for San Francisco’s Mayor Ed Lee, said last month, Fleet Week attracts over 1 million spectators and its loss could have a major economic impact on San Francisco.

Those are the hard numbers, but let’s look at the less tangible impact. The original mission of these teams was always based in recruiting. However, this mission has grown to include a sense of National Pride. During these amazing performances, most people feel a sense of Patriotism. There is rarely a dry eye in the house while watching an impressive fly- over at an athletic event – chests swelling with pride for our country during our National Anthem.

What does that mean to the local Airshows?

In a recent poll taken by AVWeb, an internet aviation news service, only 7 percent of the respondents said, No Jet Teams, No Attendance. The rest were more positive, 54% saying they would attend with or without the teams, 24% said it would dependent on the quality of the rest of the show. So, nearly 80% are willing to go to a show, if we make it creative, interesting and exciting enough without the jets.  

Some Airshows decided to just cancel the event this year and either revamp or hope for better times in 2014. Other shows have gotten out their thinking caps and decided to use creativity to bring the crowds back this year.

Deb Mitchell was the Director of Marketing for AirshowBuzz and is now the Managing Partner of Latitude 31. She said, “There will be shows that rise to the challenge and press forward with modifications. Then there will be those who say it's impossible to make money without a jet team. My money is on the shows that reduce their spending, increase sponsorship and design creative marketing plans to lure people to an incredible family event.”  

She continued by saying, “The way forward is not easy but it's exciting to be able to re-invent your act or your show possibly attracting an entirely new audience.”  

What does this all mean to your favorite Civilian Airshow Performers?

Civilian Airshow Performers can be categorized into three distinct groups. The first group would be the highly sponsored acts such as Sean D. Tucker sponsored by Oracle and others, Kirby Chambliss flying for Red Bull and Michael Goulian for Goodyear Aviation, to name a few. This group has a contract with their sponsors that can include what Airshows and Events they need to fly as well as other Corporate Activities. They will likely not be impacted too badly this year, but if this austerity program continues, we may see a fall in sponsorship of these types of acts in the future.

Performers who have a full time job and fly airshows on weekends are in the next group. Many of the members of this group fly for an airline, which allows them additional flexibility – but there are also 9-5’ers who fly a desk Monday – Friday and then pack up and head out to their local show. Again, this group will survive this year – but their future may be in jeopardy also.

The final group consists of Performers who live day in and day out on their Airshow jobs. This group will be heavily impacted.  In speaking with several of the Performers, some have seen 30-50% of their shows cancelled for this year. This could be devastating to Performers in all groups.

How can Performers become more creative to expand their show base? In speaking with Skip Stewart, he mentioned expanding his geographical footprint. This year alone, Skip will fly in 6 different countries including many locations in Latin America and the Caribbean.  He will be joined by Kyle Franklin at their first show ever in California (Minter Field, May 11-12). While this means being away from home for longer periods of time, he feels it is worth it to bring his style of flying to more people. I applaud his creativity and his tenacity.

What should Airshows do to survive?

As Debbie Mitchell mentioned, creativity, marketing and sponsorship will be keystones in the future.

Darcy Brewer, Executive Director at California Capital Airshow, agrees and takes it further.

Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom…not even federal budget restrictions will stop the 2013 California Capital Airshow from performing for the loyal and eager fans of the Sacramento region (and far beyond) this October 5-6 at Mather Airport.

We realize these are both exciting and challenging times for the air show industry.  It’s the ideal time for the industry as a whole to re-invent itself, be creative, roll up its sleeves, and remember why we produce these special events in the first place

·         to honor our veterans and heroes by sharing their stories and experiences

·         to inspire and educate our young people with any amazing asset we can share

·         to passionately share a century of aviation history and American ingenuity with our treasured guests

I encourage everyone to please take a weekend drive with your family this summer and support an industry that needs you by attending an airshow or two.  By doing so, you will show these dedicated teams and their armies of volunteers how much you appreciate their tireless commitment regardless of what’s going on in Washington.

Thank you, Darcy. I couldn't have said it better myself. So, I’ll let her words finish off this column.  

Hopefully, I’ll see all of you at an Airshow or two this season.  

Marilyn Dash

Pylon Place 
Ruby Red Racing

Special thanks to Bruce Croft for his excellent photography. These pictures were taken at Airshows around the country and are meant to show the importance of Airshows to our next generation.

Ten Years Ago.... the story of Meigs Field

Ten years ago, Chicago and the Aviation world woke up to see Meigs Field destroyed. Mayor Richard Daley took it upon himself to circumvent the law, the rules, and the rights of the citizens and pilots of the world to destroy a landmark. Many will remember waking up the next morning and watching the news in complete shock.


Meigs Field had a deep history in the Chicago area. While it wasn’t the everyday home to aircraft, it was just for transient traffic visiting the downtown Chicago area. It was used frequently and was a treasure to many people who lived, visited or worked in the area.

Meigs Field – Before
Credit: Marge Beaver / Used with permission from the Friends of Meigs Field

History

Merrill Church Meigs was born in 1883, a newsman in Chicago at the Chicago Herald and Examiner. He was inspired to become a pilot after covering the solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean by Charles Lindbergh in 1927.

Later in life he became head of the Chicago Aero Commission and was instrumental in the development of Meigs field, which was named in honor of him and his hard work in developing the field in 1948.

This troubled field was under attack most of its life. The future of the lakefront airport had been in dispute since the 1990s. Daley had hopes of turning it into a 91-acre park – but it looked like these plans would be blocked for years by the courts and legislative fights with those who considered it a valuable business amenity. So he ordered a stealthy and nearly irrevocable strike that began the transformation of Meigs Field back into Northerly Island and a park. 

The public and their laws can be so annoying! Hearings, court battles, compromise proposals, impact studies, etc., that whole messy governmental process thing that's really just a formality - in Chicago anyway – why do it properly when you have a few friends with bulldozers.

Trouble

The Friends of Meigs Field, an organization dedicated to preserving the field, received a call in the middle of the night asking if they knew of any construction being down at the field. They were stunned of course and headed out there to see what they could find out. They weren't allowed on the field and were later told that the night was chosen specifically because only light aircraft were on the field that night.

The stranded aircraft were allowed to take off from the taxiway – or, the City of Chicago would “dismantle their aircraft and move it for them”. Um… seriously? I think I’ll take off from the taxiway, thanks.

And then came the lawsuits. Chicago faced a $33,000 penalty and up to $4.5 million in additional fines for the clandestine destruction of Meigs field. The fine was for shutting down a public use airport without giving the required 30 day notice.

The additional fines were from the FAA basically saying city officials improperly diverted $1.5 million in federal grants and airline passenger taxes intended for capital repairs to pay for demolishing the Meigs runway. The FAA could have ordered the city to repay any improperly used funds or impose penalties of up to $4.5 million if the city refuses to comply.

Regarding the alleged misuse of airport funding, a city official was quoted as saying, "Some funds were used to build the airport, and it was appropriate to use the airport funds to remove the airport."

When it was all said and done, the only repercussion from this, besides a public black eye, was the $33,000 fine. That’s it.


Now, Northerly Island, the old site of Meigs Field, is a 91- acre park on Lake Michigan. The majority of this space is dedicated to “strolling paths, casual play areas and a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline”. So, there you have it.

Meigs Field - After
Credit Precision Aerial, Mark Remaley
Used with permission from the Friends of Meigs Field

Is Santa Monica Airport next? Some people in that community have already developed plans to turn their local airport into a park also. It seems all of our local airports are under attack by someone or some group looking to use the land for their preferred interest. 

Be sure, Aviation as we know it is under attack in many ways and we need to keep our eyes open and be vigilant to make sure the next generation has a place to learn, experience and enjoy what we have dedicated so much of our time, energy, money and love. 

A friend of mine wrote this the other day and I wanted to add it here.

Here today, while there are still plenty of airplanes in the sky, I fear that this is a waning phenomenon. The administration has made it a top priority to demonize and vilify people who leave the ground for periods of time that exceed the time it takes to jump. One of the surest signs that a country has its shit together is when it can do things that are so potentially lethal so safely that no one ever seriously considers the downside of the activity when they engage in it. If we give that up, it is truly a sign that decline is only a modest way of describing the mode of the nation.

Happy flying. 

Aviation Events in 2013

Big things are happening this year in Aviation. Before we get too far into the New Year, I wanted to help you plan your vacation time. So, get out your Ruby Aviation Calendar http://www.cafepress.com/aviation_calendar and a pen and let’s get started.

Reno Air Races

Priority #1 to Air Race fans will be the 50^th Annual National Championship Air Races, which will be held September 11-15, 2013. If you only make one event this year, I am pretty sure this is the one to make.

The planning has started to have many old time racers in attendance. I will continue to update as plans become more solid throughout the year. But, circle this one, and consider coming for the entire week. Qualifying starts on Monday, September 9^th.

With all the rumors floating around for the last few years about this being the final Reno, if your bucket list contains, “Race at Reno” – you need to go to the Pylon Racing Seminar, PRS, aka Rookie School. This will likely be held the week of June 10^th. You need to attend PRS if you want to race, so to check that box on the Bucket List; you need to be here in June to be there in September. 

I should also mention that I don’t believe the rumors, I didn’t believe the rumor about the Mayans either – and they were wrong too.

Reno Air Races action, where else can you see racing Mustangs

Paris Air Show

Speaking of 50^th Anniversaries, the Paris Air Show also celebrates this milestone June 17-23. The Paris Air Show is a biannual event which is much more focused on the business side of Aviation. You will see the latest from companies like AirBus, Sukhoi, Dassault and Bombardier. You probably won’t see a Pitts or an RV-6 in the bunch.

The Solar Impulse is scheduled to be there. This is a long-range solar powered aircraft being used to prove the concept of solar flight at night. The ultimate goal is to fly around the world – stopping only to change pilots. The Around the World flight will likely take place in 2014 or 2015, but several more test flights are scheduled – so keep an eye on this energetic crew.

Air Race Teams tossing t-shirts to the fans – only at Reno!

WAC 2013 – USA

The World Aerobatic Championships, also known as the WAC, will be held in the United States for the first time since 2003. The site will be North Texas Regional Airport (KGYI) situated between Sherman and Denison in Grayson County. This is basically the Olympics for Unlimited Aerobatic Competitors.

So, what can you expect to see at WAC2013?  Projections initially indicate that at least 12 countries will be represented with up to 75 pilots in competing. Because the event takes place in the USA, we also expect to see several Independent pilots flying outside of their national teams.

The USA hasn't won a championship since 1988 when the team of Henry Haigh, Kermit Weeks and Clint McHenry won it all in Red Deer, Canada. We have won the 4-minute Freestyle two of the last three events. Rob Holland won it in 2011 and Zach Heffley in 2009.

The team needs sponsorship, volunteers, spectators, and donations. So, check out http://wac2013.com/ for more information and to follow the action. Head over to http://www.unlimitedaerobaticsusa.com/ to meet the US Team.

US Aerobatic Team headed to WAC in October

Credit: US Aerobatic Team 

Sun-n-Fun

The USAF Thunderbirds announced that the SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo has been included on this year’s schedule. The announcement was made last month at the International Council of Airshows Convention in Las Vegas, NV. 

The 2013 SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo will be held April 9 – 14 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport in Lakeland, FL. Most new Airshow Acts try out their new routines at this event each year. So, if you’re in need of Aviation, Sun, and Fun in April, Lakeland is your place.

Oshkosh - Airventure

This year Oshkosh, the EAA Fly-in known as Airventure will take place from July 29, 2013 - August 4, 2013. As a pilot, if you’ve never been you must go. Fly-in, drive-in, hitchhike if you have to – do whatever it takes, but get there, at least once in your lifetime.

There is something for everyone at Airventure, from the homebuilder workshops to the exhibits to the amazing airshow. You will be among your people, talking, living and breathing everything Aviation.

Flying Legends Air Show at Duxford

And if you want to see something completely different, try the Flying Legends Air Show at Duxford which takes place July 13 – 14, 2013. The event takes place at the Imperial War Museum Duxford, a branch of the Imperial War Museum in London, near the village of Duxford in Cambridgeshire, England.

This event is exactly what it sounds like, a celebration of legendary aircraft which fly most of the afternoon. The mornings are free to wander around the museum and explore the aircraft and other exhibits available. This is definitely one for that Bucket List.

Others

If you can’t make any of these events, look for a local Aerobatic Competition or Airshow in your neighborhood. Take a friend and make a commitment to introduce someone else to the world of Aviation this year.

Happy 2013! See you at the show!

Early morning biplane action at Reno

Photo Credits

Anthony D. Taylor
http://warbirdfotos.com/

That is One Fast Glasair …

Honoring my commitment to cover all of the Race Classes at Reno, not just the Unlimiteds, I wanted to introduce you to Jeff LaVelle, the 2012 Sport Class Gold Champion and his Glasair III. A seemingly mild mannered Glasair III, one that looks remarkably like the others you may see each weekend flying to the next $100 Hamburger location. However, this one is special --- very special.

But, all that is special is on the inside. Jeff LaVelle, like so many other Race Pilots, started out racing something else, for him it was Motorcycles. He always had competitive spirit that made him look for ways to improve. He became a pilot about 20 years ago and later attended the Reno Air Races, setting his sights on competing there.

Jeff LaVelle rounding the pylons in his Glasair III Bruce Croft  - http://www.twozerowest.com/
 He founded a company in 1989 in aerospace manufacturing providing products to industry giants including Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Northrup Grumman. Watching and learning and finally taking some of his ideas for his clients probably helped him create his plan of attack at Reno.

He purchased a Glasair kit in 1998 and his focus turned to the brand new Sport Class. This provided him the perfect opportunity to use his piloting skills, his love for speed, and his knowledge of mechanical things. He attended PRS in 2007 and won Rookie of the Year for the Sport Class that year.

His first qualifying time in 2007 was 292.193 – over 100 mph less than this year. Now, that is serious improvement. By 2008, he was already making incredible strides qualifying at 335.180 mph that year. In 2009 his number was 357.863 and another smaller improvement in 2010 to 362.481.

A much larger difference was made by 2011. He qualified FIRST at an amazing 396.730 and really turned some heads. Unfortunately, the Races were canceled and he never got a chance to back up that number with a win. John Parker was crowned the Winner in 2011 based on the Sport Class Heat 2A Results on Friday. Jeff performed a precautionary landing during that race, based on an errant radio call. He assumed he had the weekend to make up ground, but things didn’t work out that way.

The changes he has made include turbochargers, a larger engine with more horsepower, different propellers and some aerodynamic changes. He says they do something each year, trying to make those modifications pay off. And they finally did.

This year, he wanted to win. He has been making changes over the years and this was his time. He won Fastest Type, Fastest Qualifier, every Heat Race and then the final championship race on Sunday.

He is missing only two records at this point: fastest qualifying time (409.297) for the class and the championship race record (402.896) – both records currently held by Jon Sharp with his NemesisNXT. Jeff has a new engine ready to be put on the Glasair for next year and he has a few other changes up his sleeve. I believe he will capture Jon Sharp’s records next year. And, I will be happy to cheer him on and wish him luck.

Jeff preparing for a practice session at PRS in June Bruce Croft  -  http://www.twozerowest.com/

Aviation Calendar

Don't forget to buy your Ruby Calendar - 2013 for all the pilots on your holiday gift giving list!
http://www.cafepress.com/aviation_calendar

See you next year!

The Return to the Races

We expected it to feel different, and it did. We expected it to be more difficult, and it was. But, we never expected it to be so cathartic.  At least I didn't.

The week started out earlier than usual. Racers were to be on the field by the noon on the Saturday before the races. This is by far the earliest we were told to be there. But we were there and we were together.

It was good to see some of the new aircraft, new paint jobs, new owners, etc.  And, of course, it was good to see all the new rookies and our old friends. Lots of hugs were exchanged and stories were shared about the off-season and how most of us were absolutely certain we wouldn’t be standing there – but we were.

Before I review the races, I wanted to share a quote from Tim Cone, Rookie Sport Class Racer: What do they call the pilot who places LAST in the Bronze heat of a Reno Air Race? An Air Racer! – And he’s right! Congrats to all the racers and especially the rookies.

International Formula 1

The race in IF1 was for 2^nd place. Endeavour and Steve Senegal wrapped up the Gold with ease qualifying over 10 mph faster than Vito Wypraechtiger of Switzerland – his closest competitor. Steve flew the best he’s ever flown and had a great week. He had three aircraft competing, including Miss Demeanor in the IF1 Silver and his RV8 in the Sport Class.

Steve Senegal and Endeavour with Crew Chief, Cash Copeland 

Brian Reberry raced his new design September Fate in the Gold and Tony the Tiger, a stock Cassutt III-M in the Silver – bringing up the rear. September Fate was fast, but has much more potential. We look forward to whatever tweaks the Reberry team decides to bring in the future.

Little gremlins plagued many of the other competitors including Stephen Partridge Hicks who had all sorts of problems; Rookie Justin Phillipson had problems but was able to work them out and ended up finishing second in the Gold. Kevin Anderson another fine Rookie also had gremlins – which prevented him from completing his week. He put up a nice qualifying time and hopefully, we’ll see him again next year.

An influx of young blood was honored with Kevin Broughall winning Crew Chief of the year and Justin Phillipson earning second place in the Gold and Rookie of the Year. Congrats to you both and to all the IF1 racers and crews for making it such a great and safe year.

Justin Phillipson our IF1 Rookie of the Year 
 

Biplanes

The Biplane Gold was won from the back row by Tom Aberle flying Phantom. Tom was disqualified in the final heat race for low flying (something that happened quite frequently this year in all the classes) which placed him in the back of the pack for the final Gold Race. This meant that Tom had to pass everyone to win, and this time he only lapped six of the competitors. Karl Grove in Drag Racer started on pole and was the only biplane not lapped. Tom continues to amaze with his purpose built racer.


The Biplane Silver was won in fine style by Chris Schaich in his second year of racing. I ended up third in the Silver – at one point listed as second due to a low flight call for Casey Erickson. This penalty did not withstand the test of time and was somehow overturned, which put me back into third. Still, this was the best I have ever finished and my team is happy with our results.

Ruby with 232 watching over her shoulder


We are hoping for new competitors to join us at PRS in September, if you’re interested in racing, in any of the classes, drop me a line and I’ll help you.


T6

The T6 class was competitive as usual. Nick Macy won the Gold with a new record of just over 247 mph. Dennis Buehn was in second place and John Lohmar came in third. John Zayak toasted his engine (technical aviation term) and was unable to finish out his week.


Gordo Sanders won the Silver with an amazing race against Gene McNeeley earlier in the week to take the pole position. Gene cut a pylon and Gordo was able to keep his position and was thrilled with the results. This was the first time Gordo has won. Congrats!

 Close racing between Gordo Sanders and Gene McNeeley in the T6 Class


Sport Class

The Sport Class has had their ups and downs over the years, and I believe they are really hitting their stride. In the beginning, it was Glasairs and Lancairs with a smattering of the Metal Mafia (RV-4, 6, 8, Rockets, etc.). Then, we had the Super Sport which was meant to increase the competition for larger engines and elevated designs. Now we have a mix of both.


Jeff LaVelle qualified at 395 mph in his highly modified, incredible Glasair III. If you took a quick glance at it, you’d think it was a perfectly normal Glasair, but alas, you would be wrong. We will cover more information about Jeff in future columns, but let’s just say, that is not your normal Glasair. Jeff qualified first, and ran all four races in the front without a flaw. He had a great week and we’re happy to see him do so well.


John Parker in his Thunder Mustang, Blue Thunder II, finished second, but was over 16 mph behind our leader. Lynn Farnsworth finished out the top three with Lee Behel in his beautiful GP-5 coming in a very respectable fourth place.


Jet Class

Rick Vandam owned the Jet Gold from beginning to end. He qualified fastest and won each heat race and the final Gold in American Spirit the super slick L39. Rick and Phil Fogg were the only aircraft the entire week to put up 500mph + times – and that was only in Qualifying.

Rick Vandam and American Spirit - Jet Class Gold


The 250 foot maximum altitude, which I’ve written about in earlier articles, was quite significant in the Jet Class (and Unlimiteds). Several of the racers were called for “High Flying” and were disqualified for their sessions. 


I would say that flying was watched more carefully this year and the Contest Committee, the final voice in penalties and disqualifications, were kept busy all week.


Unlimited

Steven Hinton and Strega provided the fans with a decisive win on Sunday in the Unlimited Breitling Gold Race. After winning in 2009, “Stevo” was named the winner in 2010, the Year of the Wind and in 2011, when racing was cancelled due to the tragedy. This year, he wanted to win it in the sky, the way you’re meant to win an Air Race.

232 and Dreadnaught battling for second place during final Gold Race


232 flown by former Astronaut, Hoot Gibson finished second with the Sander’s Dreadnaught coming in third. But, the final finish doesn't tell even half the story of 2012.


The Qualifying Sessions ended with Strega having a slight lead over Rare Bear, being flown by veteran racer, Stewart Dawson. Furias, the beautifully restored Super Sea Fury, qualified a distant third, however, on landing, Matt Jackson had a landing gear issue and Furias ended up in a dust cloud in the desert. Matt was okay and by the time he got back to the Pits he was already telling stories about how it all came to be. Sadly, Furias was not okay and is going home on a truck.


Our fourth highest qualifier was Precious Metal with Thom Richard as the pilot. Their speed of 463mph was the fastest that airframe has ever gone. Unfortunately, their gear door disappeared coming down the Chute on Sunday and he was the first mayday of the race.


Dennis Sanders flying the families Super Sea Fury, Dreadnaught qualified fifth and as always, flew perfectly awaiting the series of maydays that were sure to come. 


Some of the best racing during the week included watching Dennis Sanders in Dreadnaught trying to overtake Thom Richard in Precious Metal. Watching “The Buick” struggled to keep upright while flying closely on Thom’s wing reminded so many of us of watching Czech Mate and other racers struggled to stay behind Dreadnaught. The wake created by Dread really knocks the air around, and this time Dreadnaught was eating some of her own medicine.

Precious Metal tossing nasty wake at Dreadnaught


During the final race, Rare Bear pulled off the course after the penultimate lap, presumably with overheating problems, which plagued them all week. This left the door open for Rare Bear’s little sister 232 to jump into second place.


232 had a dismal qualifying time, but had been nursing early issues during the week. Electrical problems were the rumored cause of their gremlins. Fixed by Wednesday, each day they refined their racer and started to go faster. The second place finish was the best for Hoot and he had a great time working with the 232 Crew. 


Sawbones, flown by Curt Brown and Miss America, flown by Brent Hisey finished fourth and fifth in the final Gold Race. Both putting up very respectable times and both flying beautifully all week.

Miss America, Rare Bear and Sawbones in close racing on Sunday


This was Strega’s 11^th win, Stevo’s fourth, and this will be their last as a team. Tiger Destefani, Strega’s owner, has confirmed that he will no longer campaign Strega at the races in the future. 

What does this mean? Will Strega end up in someone else’s hands and continue to race? Will Strega end up in a museum – or maybe become a flying museum?


What does this mean for our young champion? Will he end up racing another aircraft? Will he leave air racing? Continue racing in another venue?


The Strega Team worked as a well-oiled machine all week. It is sad to see them disperse. But, I would like to take this chance to thank Tiger for being Tiger and bringing Strega to the races for our entertainment. And, for giving us Stevo Hinton.

Tiger Destefani and Steven Hinton proved to be unbeatable - again


Final Thoughts

The crowds were not at pre-2011 levels, but the fans came back. The racing wasn’t edge-of-your-seat-action all week, but it was good and it was safe. There was a smattering of maydays, but only a few aircraft unable to fly home. All in all, I believe this was a successful comeback for NCAR. 

Congrats to all competitors and to RARA for putting on a great event.


Next month, we’ll get into more detail about the races and discuss some of the more interesting competitions happening on the course. We will take a closer look at some of the teams and what makes a team work well together. And, we’ll talk about the tragedy, the ceremony, the survivors and the future of the Reno Air Races.


Until then…

 
All photos used with permission from Bruce Croft - http://www.twozerowest.com/