54th Annual Event Is One Of The World Top Air Shows
Reporting By Ramona Cox
The National Championship Air Races outside of Reno, Nevada, is the last event of its kind, carrying on the tradition of the Cleveland Air Races of the 1920s, 30s and 40s.
The 2017 event is Sept 13-17. This is the 54th annual air race.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2017 event.
WHAT: Held every September just north of Reno, the National Championship Air Races have become an institution for northern Nevada and aviation enthusiasts from around the world. For one week, the high desert north of Reno becomes home to hundreds of aircraft, their pilots and crews.
During the past 10 years, the event has attracted more than 1 million spectators and generated more than $600 million for the region’s economy. The event features six racing classes, a large display of static aircraft and several military and civil flight demonstrations.
BRIEF HISTORY: In 1964, Bill Stead organized an air race near Reno, Nevada, and the Reno National Championship Air Races were born. The event that Bill Stead started in the Nevada desert more than 53 years ago is still going strong.
RACE CLASES: Biplane, Formula One, Jet, Sport, T6, Unlimited
WHAT YOU CAN BRING: Sunscreen and not much else. No chairs or umbrellas. Coolers only with a cooler pass.
HOURS: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
SCHEDULE: The smaller and lighter Formula 1 and Biplane Class aircraft are generally scheduled first, starting at 8 a.m. The T-6, Sport, Jet and Unlimited aircraft generally fly beginning around 10 a.m.
In between races, there are always aerobatic exhibitions, fly-bys, military and civil aircraft demonstrations and other performances.
WEATHER: Warm and sunny in the afternoon with a high in the mid- to upper-70s on Saturday and Sunday. Bring a jacket or sweatshirt, tho, for the temperatures drop to the middle to lower 40s in the mornings and evenings.
LOCATION, ADDRESS & MAP: Stead Air Field, 4895 Texas Ave., Reno, NV
TICKETS: $24 Friday, $35 Saturday & Sunday (GA) $35 Friday (Reserved Grandstand), $45 Saturday & Sunday (Reserved Grandstand); 3-day $94 (GA), $120 Reserved Grandstand. Pit passes are $32 on Friday and $34 on Saturday and Sunday. The Chairman’s Hospitality Tent is $130 a day.
EVENT WEBSITE & ADVANCE TICKETS: airrace.org
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