The Pylon Place

Sequester and Airshows

2013-04-29T15:05:00.002-07:00

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

2013-03-30T09:57:00.001-07:00

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.

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.

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

Trouble

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.

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.

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

Is your airport next?

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.

Final thoughts:

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

2013-01-09T20:25:00.001-08:00

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 …

2012-12-06T15:19:00.000-08:00

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

2012-10-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

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/

Reno Air Racing Prep - 2012

2012-09-03T12:47:00.000-07:00

Keeping up with the news surrounding the Reno Air Races this year has been exhausting. Racers and fans alike have so many questions, i.e., are we racing, what changes will we see, who will be there, who won’t, will the fans notice any changes? These are all good questions. I hope that I have, through this column, helped everyone understand what the process has been following the horrific event of September 16, 2011. I have tried to listen to the questions the fans have been asking and answer them here.

NTSB Review Board

NTSB Review Board provided their findings in a Press Conference on August 27^th. Many of their recommendations have been discussed in this column earlier in the year. The final determination of cause was reviewed during this meeting. I have been following their investigation closely and am incredibly impressed with the depth of information they obtained, the amount of analysis which was done and their efforts. Generally investigations such as this one could take over two years to complete. Because they wanted to provide the information in time for the 2012 Reno Air Races, they pushed to get final recommendations and analysis done in time.

If you didn’t watch the Press Conference live or via video from their website, you missed some riveting information. I won’t go into the details, but the NTSB placed the blame squarely on the shoulders of Jimmy Leeward as race pilot and aircraft owner.

My problem is; the checks and balances have always been in place. The FAA requires annual condition inspections, which are required for all aircraft – even experimental, exhibition and racers. RARA requires these documents be submitted each year with our racing packets. The class technical inspections are only required to make sure the aircraft adhere to the class requirements – they aren’t supposed to replace this annual condition inspection. If changes are made to an aircraft, the FSDO (Flight Standards District Office) must be notified in writing. A specific testing program is outlined to verify these changes are safe, generally a specific amount of time must be flown in the configuration and a final sign off by the pilot is required stating the changes were tested in accordance with the program and everything went well.

To campaign a Race Team may look easy. It’s not. From the fastest Jet or Unlimiteds to the slowest IF1 or Biplane – special attention is taken to make sure the aircraft and the pilot are ready for the task at hand. For those of us who have been racing for years, we have seen our share of friends hurt or killed – so we know the level of risk involved. Our maintainers are keenly aware of their place in the event. We rely on each other to do the right thing and to present on race day the best possible aircraft we can. I truly believe this is everyone’s focus. No one tries to cut corners, to my knowledge.

With all of these checks in place, how could things get so far gone? To hear the NTSB describe the state of the Galloping Ghost was chilling. It clearly wasn’t ready to “beat Strega” as Jimmy stated a thousand times. I wish he was more cautious and less aggressive. But, he was a racer. And he was my friend, which makes it so much harder to hear those words spoken by the NTSB.

How do things look for 2012

While the number of competitors is down, we can still expect some terrific racing. Strega will be back for probably her final year. She’s still the one to beat and Steven Hinton is still the Wunderkind. Just in his mid-20s and already one of the most brilliant racers of our time.

Rare Bear will be flown by Stewart Dawson. He has been getting seat time and they are tweaking things to give her the best possibly chance in September.

Furias will be there in her new paint. She looks GREAT – thanks to Bucky Dawson’s paint scheme and amazing work (as usual) from the Sanders. Matt Jackson will be in the pilot – and he’s ready.

232 aka September Fury will be flown by Hoot Gibson. The aircraft has been going through some serious review to make sure she is ready. The rumor is the 232 crew wants to beat her big sister, Rare Bear. It’s a good natured competition – which is just what we need right now.

Dreadnaught aka The Buick is ready to jump into the lead if any of the front runners sneeze. They are always poised for great things.

Precious Metal has been reworking many things this year. Their team has been burning the candle on both ends and are working hard to toe the line the FAA has put down regarding aircraft changes and engineering reports. My understanding is the PM Team has completed all their paperwork and is finalizing the testing program and should be on the field with bells on for the first Pilot Brief of 2012. Thom Richard and crew are the only team in the Unlimited Division making major changes this year which now require these engineering reports. It’s all new procedures for us and we’re just doing our best to figure things out.

That should be our top six in the Unlimited Gold. Miss America and Sawbones should round out the group. We will all miss Voodoo and Czech Mate, but the show must go on. At this time, we have just 21 Unlimited Racers scheduled to attend.

Other Notables

I wanted to make a special comment here stating that Lee Behel is bringing back the beautiful GP-5. His tenacity knows no bounds. I have always been a big fan, but his efforts with this aircraft are herculean. I wish him the best of luck.

I also wanted to mention that Mike Dacey, who had an engine failure and subsequent hard landing the day before the Galloping Ghost Incident is recovering. He will not be racing this year, but insists that he will be back. His determination is inspiring and I wish him the best as he rebuilds.

Final thoughts

To all the racers and crew who have decided to come back this year, I applaud you. We were not sure we were racing until the last minute and we had to have faith to put our time and energy into the difficult preparations to be there in September, as we have been for so many Septembers before.

To the Rookies who showed up at PRS and have decided to join our family, you are to be applauded as well. You came forward to try your hand at this incredible sport, without knowing what would happen. You have great faith, or you’re crazy -- but either way, I thank you!

To all the fans and volunteers who have decided to join us, we appreciate you. Without you, it would be just a bunch of really cool planes and friends looking for a race.

To the NTSB, I am grateful that you took your task so seriously. Also a big thank you to the civilians who assisted them, including Bill Kerchenfaut and Mike Luvara – to the aircraft owners who gave them access to their aircraft including Bob Button – to the Blue Ribbon Committee who came back to help the NTSB understand what we do including Jon Sharp and Steve Hinton.

To each Race Class Leadership, you don’t get the credit you deserve, especially this year. Your dedication has been unwavering.

To RARA, thank you for not giving up hope and for continuing to pave the way for us to race again.

This entire process has just reminded me of how wonderful this community is and how close we were to losing the one event that brings us together. Let’s all hope for a clean, safe and fun 2012 Reno Air Races.

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

Let’s go RACING!

2012-08-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

First the GREAT news!

As we are going to press today, we received word that we are in fact racing in September. The much publicized shortfall of $1M towards the event insurance was eradicated when the NCOT (Nevada Commission on Tourism) came forward to provide the final $600,000.

This was the last hurdle to racing in September. All of the waivers, permits, and requirements have been satisfied and now the final checkbox has been ticked and we are on the road to Reno!

Alan Crawford rounding the pylons at PRS
Credit: Bruce Croft

Other good news includes the addition of a new racer in the IF1 Class. Brian Reberry’s new racer, September Fate, has been completed, tested, approved and registered to race in September. It has been two years since the first time I saw an artist’s rendering of the racer – and it’s now real and ready.

Reberry was introduced to the Reno Air Races through the late, great Gary Hubler, another Boise, ID pilot and long time IF1 Winner. In 2005, he started racing with N-A-Rush. He sold N-A-Rush and put the time, money and energy into building his new racer. You can see the resemblance in the gear to Tom Aberle’s Phantom, which has dominated the Biplane Class for years.

Brian gives plenty of credit to his team, sponsors and his wife for all the assistance over the last two years.

Reberry’s Racer, “September Fate”
Credit: Sherawn Reberry

Will Reberry’s design dominate the IF1 class? Will he give Steve Senegal and Endeavor a run for the Gold? We will find out in September.

Now for the not so great news…

It looks like Czech Mate will not make it again this year. Czech has been going through a speed increasing and airframe strengthening for the last several years. We had all hoped the work had been completed, tested and the racer would be ready for September, but sadly, that will not happen.

Czech Mate Fans will be disappointed this year
Credit: Tim Adams

John and Marcia Moore have owned the racer since 1997. They have made significant changes to it since it was owned by Bob Yancey and have always said they would not race it if they felt it wasn’t ready – and by ready, I believe they mean tested and tested and tested, again. We will miss Czech this year, but we know they are doing the right thing and it’ll be racing when it’s ready.

Other not so great news…

The numbers are down. For all classes except the Sport Class, we do not have full fields. This fact, coupled with the low attendance at PRS would normally send a slight panic through the air racing world. However, so many folks were waiting to hear that we were DEFINITELY racing in September; there was a “wait and see” attitude. It’s too bad the news has come so late. If we had heard by April, perhaps PRS attendance and the race numbers would have been higher.

We still have time for late entries and there is always the hope that this will happen – but even if we’re down in numbers, we expect to see a full field of fans and fun!

The variety of classes racing in September
Credit: Bruce Croft

More info on Air Racer 3D

I wanted to end this column on a very high note. We have been working with the Executive Producers of the Air Racers 3D movie about possible venues to view the movie during the Race Week.

I can now confirm that "Air Racers 3D" will be screened at the four existing multiplexes in Reno for an exclusive 2-week engagement (Sept. 7-20). Show times will be at 7:00 PM and 8:15 PM every day. Audience can already book tickets online at via the Cinemark Theater Website or through the new movie website http://airracers-thefilm.com/.

We are planning on a Team Ruby event at one of the theaters during race week and will make sure we give everyone more details as they become available.

New Ruby Logo
Credit: Thanks to Phil Riek and Tina Leong for creating and tweaking the new design

Finally…

Our fans have been giving us feedback about our Ruby t-shirts. They fact that our current logo only works on light colored shirts and apparently working on airplanes is a dirty business, so we have a redesigned logo which will work on black t-shirts. You can purchase items with the new or old logo through CafePress. http://www.cafepress.com/rubyredracing

See you in September
Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

Rancho Murieta Airshow is BACK!

2012-07-03T10:14:00.003-07:00

Twenty-five years ago, the Rancho Murieta Airshow was legendary. This small privately owned airport southeast of Sacramento was centrally located to several military bases. Because of this proximity, during their heyday they were able to attract military acts from Mather, McClellan, and Beale to name a few. Pictures from those days show U2s, B-52s and even an SR-71 making appearances to the delight of crowds.

This year the new airport owner, Bradley Beer, along with Air Boss, Mike Smith joined together with local businesses and airport tenants to bring back the glory days in celebration of Armed Forces Day. With only three months to plan and put on the show, this was a great event all around.

The event started with the Performer and VIP Barbecue on Friday night while tenants of the airport put on a Flour Bombing event to the delight of the crowds. In Aviation, Flour Bombing is when a lunch bag filled with flour is dropped by a “bomber” while the pilot maneuvers the aircraft over the target – generally a circle drawn on the runway or in a nearby grassy area.

The next morning by 7am the airport was buzzing with activity. Volunteers and vendors had arrived and the final touches to the setup were completed. The crowds started to trickle in around 9am and the field closed at 10am to airborne traffic.

A lazy morning of RV formation flights by the West Coast Ravens Formation Group kept our eyes to the skies while Mike Carpentiero hopped rides for locals in “Stanley” his 1930 New Standard D-25 Biplane. Stanley holds four people in the front cockpit and he was kept quite busy with happy passengers all day on Saturday.

Credit: Ken Linde

Wide variety of aircraft in attendance.

Military aircraft were on scene including a C-130 from Pt Mugu and a Chinook helicopter - both of which provided tours all day to the fans. Their crews were gracious to all of the attendees and were delightful to have around.

The Show opened with the National Anthem and Dan Buchanan filling the sky with streaks of smoke and color in his version of “Rocket’s Red Glare, Bombs Bursting in Air.”

Sandy Sanders and Wayne Handley handled the announcing for the show. Many aviation facts were shared during the day, with many long time airshow fans in the audience saying, “I didn’t know that”. Even I learned a thing or two that day.

Vicky Benzing showed her versatility with her Extra 300 performance. She has logged nearly 6000 hours in everything from aerobatic aircraft to helicopters and even flies her company’s Gulfstream. She is a very accomplished pilot and is the only other woman currently racing at Reno with me. Her airshow performance is filled with energy and excitement.

Then, Bill Stein took to the ski in his Zivko Edge 540. Bill had previously flown with the Red Baron Stearman Squadron and is now touring the US as a solo performer. Besides his high powered performance, Bill’s aircraft sports an amazing paint scheme which actually changes color as the sun reflects against the state of the art paint. The California audience was lucky to see his show, since he’ll be on the road for nearly the entire season, showcasing his talent around the country.

Credit: Mark E. Loper

Stein’s Zivko Edge 540 with the cutting edge paint keeps your eyes to the skies

P-51 Mustang Aerobatics flown by veteran, Dan Vance, was up next. Dan is a true professional. He flies for a major airline and can be seen racing his Speedball Alice at the Reno Air Races where he is also a check pilot for the Unlimited Class. He puts on a wonderful aerobatic routine and a great addition to the Air Show Circuit.

Dennis Sanders was up next flying Argonaut, the Hawker Sea Fury FB.11 powered by an R2800 and outfitted with smoke generators on both wing tips, allowing it to visually demonstrate the effects of wing tip vortices and its awesome aerobatic performance.

Credit: Ken Linde

Argonaut with the smoke generators – always exciting to watch

Julie Clark closed the show with her “Smokin’ T-34 Mentor”. Julie has retired from flying for a major airline, but is still available to entertain the crowds with her patriotic routine. She is also great with the fans, especially the kids. This is her 32^nd year flying aerobatics in air shows and is a “mentor” to many of us!

Credit: Ken Linde

Caption: Julie Clark's Patriotic Aerobatic Display

Before the weekend started, Bradley Beer, owner of the Rancho Murieta Airport , said “The airshow will not only be an exciting event in our community. It gives us an opportunity to support the USO by donating a portion of the proceeds to them. This will be the best airshow in our region this year.”

And he was right. He also said that if they broke even, he would be happy to do it all again next year. Now that they have more than three months to plan and execute – 2013 will be even better. Circle the first weekend in June 2013 on your calendars now!

Reno Update

The Pylon Racing Seminar was held in June with a great turn out of Rookies and Veterans taking to the course for practice and evaluation. The new Unlimited Course was flown by both Steven Hinton and Dennis Sanders to assess the changes. Both of them walked away with positive comments, so we should be okay with the new course changes.

Also in June, the initial race entries were due to RARA. And it looks like we are in for a solid year of racing. While the numbers aren’t over the top, we have more than many expected – with 22 Unlimited Racers already registered. All of the other classes are short of a full field, but we are all hoping for additional late entries to round out the field.

Credit: Rob Miller

The Pylons are waiting…

Air Racers 3D Movie

Also, you should know that the Air Racers 3D Movie is working on a premiere event at Reno during Air Race Week. Stay tuned for additional information, but we are looking at September 7th - 20th viewings around the Reno area.

And don't forget the September 12th event in Sacramento. I will keep the information coming.
Until then...

Fly low...fast and you know the rest...

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

PS... always looking for Race Sponsorship, if interested, drop me a note.

Planes of Fame Airshow does it again

2012-06-08T16:16:00.003-07:00

The Planes of Fame Museum held their annual airshow the first weekend in May 2012. This year’s theme was “1942 – Turning the Tide” celebrating the 70th anniversary of our entry and participation in World War II. This is clearly one of the finest airshows in the US. And this year was no exception.

The regular aerobatic acts including Hartley Folstad and Margie Stivers in their Silver Wings Wingwalking performance started the day off with beautiful “ballet in the sky”. Long time Chino regular, Tumbling Bear followed with his high energy aerobatic routine in the Zlin. Clay Lacy returned again this year with his Learjet Routine which is always fun to watch.

New features this year included fan favorite and award winning performer Sean D. Tucker, who brought his amazing Oracle Challenger III Biplane to wow the crowds. His aerial high-jinx included his signature Double Hammerhead, Centrifuge, Helicopter Pass and the series of three ribbon cuts, all in different configurations – Right knife edge, Left knife edge and inverted.

One criterion by which we judge an aerobatic act is the number of people who leave their seats and rush to the flight line to watch. No one was seated during Sean’s high powered routine. Sean has infectious energy and passion for what he does. And it shows in every single performance.

Another aerobatic act which kept the fans standing was Stewart Dawson doing a graceful routine in Rod Lewis’ Tigercat called “Here, Kitty, Kitty”. His ability to twist and turn that giant plane was amazing. He took “Kitty” through a series of Loops and Rolls which we are more accustomed to seeing in a smaller, lighter aircraft with the twin engines just purring. Seriously, this was one of my favorites of the show.

The Horsemen were also in attendance. In previous years we have seen them in two or three P-51 Mustangs or in F8F Bearcats. This year, with Steve Hinton joining as their lead, Ed Shipley and Dan Friedkin remained in their P-51s while Steve led with the P-38 named Skidoo. The trio put on a wonderful combination of Warbirds, formation flying and aerobatics.

The final aerobatic performance of the show featured Dennis Sanders in Argonaut, the R-2800 powered Sea Fury. This demonstration is different from all the others because it showcases wingtip Self-Contained Smoke Generator Systems. The fans love the way “Argo” creates smoke rings while doing a series of aerobatic maneuvers. Again, this show is a must see and a fan favorite.

Intertwined with all of these wonderful performances, the Planes of Fame Museum put on an aerial display of their incredible warbird collection. For the 70th anniversary of the Doolittle Raid, three B-25s took to the sky to remind us of the importance of that event to “Turn the Tide” – the theme of the show.

A trio of Japanese Zeros made several passes during the show and provided the fans with a memorable experience. Bearcats, Avengers, Corsairs, Dauntless, Skyraiders, Texans, a Fairey Firefly and a Hellcat were just some of the aircraft taking part in the well orchestrated airshow.

If you like jets, the Korean War Dogfight between the MIG-15 and the F-86 would have delighted you. And the Heritage Flight included one of my favorites, the QF-4 from Holloman AFB and two P-38s and a P-51. The final low passes by the QF-4 were as loud and impressive as anyone airshow fan would want.

One of the best ways to enjoy a show like this – if you’re not flying in it – is to volunteer. I spoke to easily 20 people who take vacation time from their jobs and spend their time volunteering for the show. There are also opportunities to help by sponsoring the airshow or at least becoming members of the Museum.

If you haven’t made it to Chino and the Planes of Fame Museum and Airshow yet, what has taken you so long? See you next year? I hope so!

Reno Updates

All indications point to a green light for the Reno Air Races this year. As discussed in the past, there are several hoops to jump through and we are clear of all hoops, but two. Let me explain.

The first thing we needed was the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority providing us with a Permit to hold the event. This permit was issued on May 17th. While in the past, the RTAA gave 5 year permits, this year they gave only one – and issued additional requirements for insurance and for RARA to comply with the NTSB recommendations made in April.

The insurance requirement increased to $100million and the premium will now cost $2million to secure. This is an enormous increase for a onetime per year event, but is non-negotiable.

The final hurdles include the FAA Waiver – which should not be a problem. The FAA has said if RARA adheres to the NTSB recommendations, they will grant their waiver.

Another hurdle is actually paying for the $2m insurance premium. Which brings me to the final hurdle – getting people to come back to the races and start buying tickets, merchandise and setting up those hotel reservations.

We understand that until now, most people still felt there was a level of uncertainty around the event in September. Hopefully, the above update will satisfy your fears and we can move forward and see each other again in September.

To quote Mike Houghton, “I am very pleased to announce that we have, indeed, secured our required insurance policy of 100 million dollars, and are absolutely confident that we are or will soon be in compliance with all airport authority stipulations.”

Looks good to me!

June is PRS and I know I’ll be there to meet and greet the rookies. I hope to have a full report about all the new and exciting racers we will see soon!

Also, keep checking the Air Racers 3D website to see when the IMAX film about the Reno Air Races debuts at your local theatre.

Until then….
Fly Fast…

(Special thanks to Anthony Taylor from Warbirdfotos and congrats on your first cover!)

State of the Races

2012-05-04T08:20:00.002-07:00

On April 10^th, the NTSB presented their preliminary recommendations during a well attended Press Conference at the Reno Tahoe Airport. Unable to attend in person, I was able to view the on-line version. I will say, the first time I really believed we were racing in September was after I heard the words of NTSB Chairperson, Deborah Hersman, state, "We are not here to put a stop to air racing, we are here to make it safer.” With those words, I saw a bright light at the end of this long, dark tunnel.

During the conference, several recommendations were addressed. I will review several here and give my comments.

Evaluation of Aircraft with Structural or Flight Control Modifications

Require aircraft owners, as a condition of eligibility to participate in the Reno National Championship Air Races, to provide an engineering evaluation that includes flight demonstrations and analysis within the anticipated flight envelope for aircraft with any major modification, such as to the structure or flight controls.

What we know is when a new Unlimited Design is brought to the Races, (think Tsunami and Pond Racer) much scrutiny is lavished on the aircraft. But, because Galloping Ghost was a returning aircraft, had raced before in several configurations, was therefore considered to just be a modification and not a new design. These modifications will now be viewed with a similar scrutiny as a new design.

But, what constitutes a major modification? The recommendation stated, “such as to the structure or flight controls”. This leaves some things to interpretation. We know that several of the Jets have had major power plant modifications – would this be a major modification under the recommendation? It’s not specifically structure or flight control – but should be analyzed as well.

And about testing -- a specific point that was made clearly, "This pilot, in this airplane, had never flown this fast, on this course”. While this is true, it is nearly impossible to test an aircraft within the race conditions, unless they are on the race course – with other aircraft. G-Forces, air pressure differentials, heat, winds, buffeting and the course design would all need to be replicated in a true test environment.

While I would concede that the Galloping Ghost should have been tested further. The ability to do that is not easy due to speed limits on aircraft under 10,000/18,000 feet and the inability to find true test environments.

NCAR Unlimited Class Course Design

Evaluate the design of the unlimited class course and safety areas to minimize maneuvering near and potential conflicts with spectators; if warranted by the results of the evaluation, implement changes to the race course

Over the years, modifications have been made to the race course as needed. It looks like RARA will be making additional changes to Pylons 4, 7, 8 and 9. Pylon 4 has been mentioned by several pilots as hard to see at race speed. I tend to believe Pylon 4 was going to be moved prior to the events of 2011. And, I wouldn’t be surprised if the relocation of Pylons 7, 8 and 9 may have also been on the list. My assumption is the deadline over at the Valley of Speed (Western edge of the course) will now be made larger. This could also impact the flight path of the racers. The turn from 7, 8, 9 and home pylons has always been tricky – will it get even trickier?

I haven’t seen the old course and new course overlayed together to see how much the course will change, but I will share it with you when it’s completed and made available. Just assume there will be changes to the course.

Training and Mitigation Techniques for High G Operations

Provide high G training to pilots, including techniques to mitigate the potential effects of high G exposure, as part of preparations before the Reno National Championship Air Races (NCAR) and during daily briefs at the NCAR. Evaluate the feasibility of requiring pilots to wear G- suits when racing at the Reno National Championship Air Races; if the evaluation determines it is feasible, implement a requirement.

Most of the pilots who participate in NCAR each year are at least Aerobatic Trained, most are Commercial Pilots and many are Military trained. I can guarantee that we have all had conversations about G tolerances and have been exposed to high G maneuvers. You cannot get to this level of competition without this experience and knowledge.

I think it’s a great idea for us to have additional conversations about effects, exposure and preparation. I don’t think it’s feasible or practical for G-Suits to be required. We’ve done some research and a tank, systems and a G-Suit could be purchased for approximately $5k.Installation and design requirements would be additional - but, the weight is prohibitive to all classes except Unlimited and Jets.

As far as I know, the only racers who have worn G-Suits in the past have been in the Jet Class. Jets are more likely to already come with the systems necessary – which is why they were in use. I have never heard of anyone installing a system for racing.

I also want to say that a G-suit would not have changed things in the Galloping Ghost incident. Rapid onset of high G’s is rarely mitigated by these suits; they are more useful for sustained high G maneuvers. Looking at the US Military Jet Teams, the Thunderbirds wear them and the Blue Angels do not. The Angels do not wear the suits because of the potential for unexpected stick inputs when the suit “inflates”. If the pilot is bracing his/her arm on the top of their leg to have more firm stick control (standard) – this inflation could have an effect on the pilots’ ability to safely fly in formation close to other aircraft and close to the ground.

Fuel Truck Operations

Take the following actions to raise the level of safety for spectators and personnel near the race course: (1) relocate the fuel truck away from the ramp area and (2) in front of any area where spectators are present, install barriers more substantial than those currently in place.

This is another one that we have discussed in the past. The Fuel Trucks need to be available for Racers to obtain fuel prior to the races. But, they should probably not be between the Pit Area and the race course. Okay, I agree. However, the convenience factor needs to be considered.

What we’ve heard so far is that the Fuel Trucks will be in position between races and removed during all races. Okay, this could work and would be a happy medium between convenience and safety.

The Future

Mike Houghton said after the Press Conference, "I don't think any of these would have had an impact on the tragedy we experienced, but the association is open to changes that lead to a safer event.” I agree with Mike and I know they are doing everything they can to keep us all safe and keep us racing.

This is what we know now. Believe me, we are constantly learning more. But, what I want to say now is, buy those tickets – because WE ARE RACING in September. And believe me; it makes me very happy to say that!

See you there!

Marilyn Dash

Records and Racing

2012-02-28T10:50:00.000-08:00

Progress is being made, say officials for the Reno National Championship Air Races (RARA). Last month, RARA met with the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA) to discuss obtaining the permits needed to hold the event at the Reno-Stead Airport in September.

RTAA is the owner and operator of the Reno-Tahoe International and Reno-Stead Airports. It is governed by a nine member Board of Trustees.
In this meeting, Mike Houghton, president of RARA told the airport officials that he is "totally satisfied" with the direction the board is taking in considering the permits.

Only two people spoke up against RARA at the RTAA meeting, both have had previous anti-RARA episodes. One of their stated concerns was the NTSB will not complete its probable cause report before the planned September 12th start of the 2012 event. This is quite standard; the NTSB generally takes up to 3 years to investigate such an accident.

The permits from RTAA is just one of the hurdles RARA needs to manage before the Pylon Racing Seminar in June and the Races in September can be held.

The next hurdle is the Air Racing Waiver from the FAA. This allows us to create the airspace necessary to hold such an event. Waivered airspace allows us to exceed the normal speed limits, fly in “close proximity” to other aircraft, etc. These two key items are essential to holding the event. But, they are not the only things on the task list.

In March, the annual Presidents’ Meeting will be held to share the “State of the Races” with each of the racing classes. This meeting should shed additional light on the issues being faced. As news becomes available, I will share what I can.

Speeding and Climbing

In the meantime, Rare Bear has joined Steadfast in trying to break FAI records. We mentioned earlier that Will Whiteside in Steadfast set the 3km record in their weight class, previously held by the Hughes H-1 Racer.

Now, Rare Bear will also go for the 3km record in their weight class sometime this summer. Lyle Shelton set the record in Las Vegas on August of 1989. It currently sits at 528 mph/850 km/h. Lyle also set the “Time to Climb” record - standing start to 3,000 meters (approximately 10,000 feet) - in 91.9 seconds. We do not have word yet if this is part of the plan, but I bet it is. Having Rare Bear break its own record would be a terrific boost for the team. We wish them luck.

Rare Bear out to break their own FAI Records

But, Steadfast shall not be outdone. Will Whiteside will also be going for the “Time to Climb” record in Steadfast. He just set the “Speed over straight 3KM course – internal combustion engine, class C-1d at 669.53. Now, he is looking to topple the “standing start to 3,000 meters. The current record was set by Russell Hancock in a Piper Navajo Piper at 3:33 in 1978. The record has to be broken by 1%.

Will Whiteside in Steadfast also breaking records

Keep in mind that Steadfast is much smaller than Rare Bear and that is why there are two completely different records to be broken. Both are under the Class C, for Internal Combustion Engine, but have different payloads.

Knowing the competitive nature of the Unlimited Teams, we’re wondering if Strega will come out of the hangar to see if she can snag the record away from Rare Bear. Or, maybe Czech Mate sees a future in record breaking. Only time will tell.

Other news

The Trailer for Air Racers -3D is now available. You can see it on You Tube and the trailer will likely be playing at local IMAX theaters to gather some momentum. The last word we received was an April 5th release date in the USA. I know we are putting together a viewing party the minute it hits my area. I will keep everyone posted about details like when you can see this movie and where to get more information about seeing it in your area. It should be amazing, flying with Steve Hinton in Strega in 3D!

Also, Pete Law will be speaking at this year’s NAG (National AirRacing Group) Banquet. Pete has a long history with air racing and aviation. He started in the business with Lockheed in 1959 to work on the F-104. He was then recruited to Skunk Works to work on such famous aircraft as the SR-71, U-2 and the F-117. Darryl Greenamyer recruited Pete to join air racing and we are sure glad he did. Pete is a fixture in the Pits each year helping nearly all the teams with their ADI systems.

Pete Law meeting with Tiger and Bob Button

As always, we look for good news from RARA and in the meantime, we’ll keep and eye on the records and events coming up.

Until then, Fly low, Fly fast and Turn left.

Marilyn Dash

Tim Adams - Photographer

Advanced Warbird Training

2012-02-28T10:40:00.000-08:00

The last few months, we’ve been talking about hat Air Racers are doing in our off-season. I mentioned how Will Whiteside and Steadfast are working to own several speed and time to climb records. We talked about Team Ruby looking to get into some fun Auto Racing activities. And this month, we’re going to talk about Dan Vance and Rob Gordon – and their new venture.

Dan Vance is the son of long time Reno Racer and Warbird Owner/Pilot, Art Vance. Art acquired Speedball Alice in 1976. He rebuilt it in 1982 and named it Million Dollar Baby (at least!), and changed the name in 2000 to Speedball Alice in honor of Captain Don H. Bochkay from the 357^th. The artwork with the “winged ace” is from Bochkay’s aircraft.

Art raced Speedball as well as two Sea Furies, Baby Gorilla and Furias. He was the Check Pilot and President of the Unlimited Division at the Air Races for many years. He also flew cover during qualifying practice sessions. He had a way of teaching with humor and boldness that resonated well with our community. At the time of his death, he had well over 11,000 hours and was a mentor to many of us.

You would think growing up with Art has your father would be an enormous challenge, but Dan Vance took to flying like his father’s son. Art and Dan both flew for the airlines, both enjoyed restoring and flying warbirds, and then Dan started flying at Reno. He has flown both P-51s and Sea Furys, most notably #911, September Pops, owned at the time by Mike Brown. Since then, he has taken his father’s place as one of the Check Pilots for the Unlimited Division. I have watched Dan mature over the years from a young man to a highly qualified, distinguished warbird pilot.

Rob Gordon took a different path. He learned to fly when he was quite young, but decided to follow a career in Law Enforcement instead. However, his love of all things aviation continued, causing him to buy a T6 and a Stearman over the years. He would work with Dan and Art over the years, learning the art of restoring and maintaining warbirds as well as continuing to progress as a pilot.

Rob started flying Lady Jo, a very famous TF-51 in our area, owned by Daryl Bond. The reason Lady Jo is so popular, is most people who have had “dual” time in a Mustang on the West Coast did that time in Lady Jo. The TF- is a Dual Control Mustang theoretically designated for training. Originally, only ten were built during 1941-1945. After WWII, several more were converted. They are still very rare and very highly coveted. Lady Jo was a rebuild made into a TF around 1989.

So, Rob is hanging around the airport, flying his T-6 and then gets the chance to fly Lady Jo. But, he still hasn’t made the jump to Reno yet. His luck changed when one year, Robbie Patterson – who usually races Lady Jo, was unable to make the races. Daryl turned to his new “Young Gun” and that year, Rob Gordon attended PRS. He then gets the opportunity to Lady Jo in 2007, and Speedball Alice each year after that.

Lady Jo and Speedball Alice at Reno

Gordon Edwards – Photographer

Now, these two Air Racing Veterans have decided to take the knowledge they have gained over the years and have joined forces with Dragonfly Aviation out of Santa Rosa, CA to provide Advanced Instruction in their Warbirds. Specifically flight training in their PT-17 Stearman and their AT-6 Texan. For the average pilot, this is an opportunity to get some advanced training which will challenge you and make you a better pilot – not matter what your daily flyer is.

I have signed myself up to be one of their first students. I can’t wait to put on my helmet and get some oil in my hair behind a round P&W Engine.

Other News

Unfortunately, our French competitors with Big Frog suffered an engine failure at the end of January. Their pilot, Christophe Delbos, was able to bring their NXT to a successful off-field landing. “Bobos” is okay, but the aircraft is a total loss.

The Big Frog Program was a testing ground for a prototype SMA engine, a 230 horsepower turbocharged diesel. The idea was that this engine would be “greener” and provide better reliability. They are back to the drawing board tonight.

Big Frog, the French NXT

Tim Adams - Photographer

It is the place of Air Racing and especially the Sport Class to become a proving ground for new technology. We grow by pushing the envelope and learning where the edges are.

We wish them well and look forward to seeing them again at Reno.

2011-12-07T09:50:00.000-08:00

Two Different Futures

Last month we talked about what will happen next with the Air Races and the Racers. I mentioned that one of the Race Planes was rumored to be for sale. Well, it has been confirmed that Bob Button has decided to sell Voodoo and move on.

I've known Bob for many years and have seen his passion for Air Racing peak, and then start to wane. At one time, he was racing his L39 in the Jet Class and Voodoo in the Unlimited. He had the world’s biggest smile on his face and was driven to win.

Since he purchased the plane, she has been raced by many pilots including Bob Hannah, Sherman Smoot, Matt Jackson, and Button himself. She was plagued by jumped starts, deadline cuts, blown engines and the infamous Bob Hannah trim tab incident of 1998.

Will Whiteside and Voodoo

Credit: Anthony Taylor

In 2008, he took off his helmet and handed the job to Will Whiteside. Will campaigned Voodoo in 2008 to a First Place Bronze finish after the engine had to be changed mid week. In 2009, Will qualified fifth and ended up with a DNF in the Sunday Gold Race. At this point Bob was ready to win, he wanted that one last chance to take it all.

The winds of 2010 cancelled the Unlimited Gold race, Voodoo was stuck with the 8^th place finished based on a DNF on Saturday. Bob said, okay – one more year. Although, I believe if we raced that Sunday, he would have made the decision one year earlier.

2011 was to be the year for Voodoo. He had the team, he had the engine program and he had the pilot. The story had it this way: it would be Strega vs. Voodoo – Merlin vs. Merlin – Young Gun vs. Young Gun. But, with the events of Friday’s race which cancelled the rest of the season, Bob finally decided that this was it.

The bottom line is this - there is a wonderful aircraft, with a great pedigree which has been plagued by bad luck, wind, timing, etc., over the years. But, it has a great crew and it’s ready to go. If there was ever a “Turnkey Air Racing Operation” – this is it. If you have a couple million dollars lying around and want to be in the Unlimited Gold, I have a team to show you!

The Taj-Ma-Tent can be part of the sale!

Credit: Bruce Croft

I would like to wish Bob Button the best of luck with whatever he chooses to do in the future. He has been an entertaining character and a faithful participant in the races for many years. He has put together a loyal team and fan base. The Purple Princess should race again.

Will Whiteside and Steadfast

And while we are talking about Will Whiteside, he has decided to focus on watching other records fall during our off-season.

In October, Will took his YAK 3U, “Steadfast” to Wendover, UT – near the Bonneville Salt Flats to attempt a new 3km speed record. The previous record was set in 2002 by the Howard Hughes designed H1 replica Racer. And prior to that, was “unofficially” held by Howard Hughes himself in the original H1. This is for C-1e, Landplanes with takeoff weight between 5,000 – 5,600 pounds.

Howard Hughes set the record in September 1935 on a course near Santa Ana, CA. His speed of 352.322 mph was an aviation marvel for the time. If you have ever seen the movie, The Aviator, you saw the Hollywood version of the record attempt. Unfortunately, Hughes checked the wrong weight category for his plane, and the time was never “official”. Hughes went on to set additional records, actually filling the paperwork in correctly.

Steadfast's record breaking flight

Used with permission from Team Steadfast

Jim Wright built the replica H-1 in Cottage Grove, OR. It was so close to the original the FAA actually gave it Serial #2. You may have seen Wright and his H-1 at airshows around the country in 2002-2003. On September 13, 2002, he flew to a new speed record (in type), of 304 mph. Sadly, Jim and the replica H-1 were lost in a crash over Wyoming in August of 2003.

Will destroyed the record by over 100 mph. On the first day, his time was 407 mph. The following day they went 416 mph. Many of the Steadfast team were on hand to lend their assistance and to celebrate the record. Jason Schillereff was there to provide cockpit video.

The amazing power to weight ratio of Steadfast may lead to additional records being broken in the coming months. Look for additional news in the future.

Personally, I’m impressed with Team Steadfast and with Will for not sitting around and asking about the future for Air Racing. Will has decided to write his own future. Good luck and congrats!

Team Steadfast
Used with permission from Team Steadfast

For more information on Team Steadfast, go to http://teamsteadfast.com/index.html

Aviation Calendars

Don't forget your favorite Aviators this Holiday Season. The Team Ruby Aviation Calendar is for sale, as well as other Ruby Gear. http://www.cafepress.com/aviation_calendar

Until next time,

Marilyn Dash

Ruby Red Racing

2011-11-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

What Happens Next?

It’s just over a month since the horrible incident which ended the 2011 National Championship Air Races at Reno. My email has been filled with requests for information about the future of Air Racing.

To tell you the truth, I don’t know – yet. But, I will tell you what I do know.

The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) has been putting together a top notch event for 48 years. This is over twice as long as the Cleveland Air Races. They have seen other competitive races come and go over the years. Through good times and bad times, they made it work.

RARA has leaned heavily on the use of Volunteers. Very few people are actually paid employees of the Races. Many Volunteers are highly trained, including the Timers, Pylon Judges and Scorers. The Contest Committee is led by a retired USAF General, Ron Fogleman. The Board is filled with Retired Military and local business leaders. At one point I heard they use over 1500 Volunteers each year to make it work.

And then we have the Racers and our Crews. While we don’t work for the Races, the event wouldn’t work without us. And of course, we have the fans. They are possibly the most passionate fans of any sporting event in the world.

Recently a letter came out from Mike Houghton, President and CEO of the Reno Air Racing Association. In this letter, Mike offered a refund for tickets from Saturday and Sunday – since the races were cancelled after the events of Friday afternoon. He also said that many fans had asked for their refunds to be used to help fund the races for next year.

To me, this is good news - because RARA is looking forward to 2012. Since they are a non-profit organization that lives year to year on the ticket sales, the future of this event likely relies on the fans to forgo their refunds and help fund the future. I think this a great idea and hopefully the majority of the fans will agree.

Other Information

While we have heard relatively little from the NTSB as to the cause of the accident, they are busy doing their investigation and will release the findings when they are complete. If you hear someone say they talked to someone in the NTSB and they said this or that – they are probably not telling the truth (or lying – your choice). The NTSB is a closed lipped organization and they will only release facts – when the facts are known.

The FAA has nothing to do with the accident investigation. They take the NTSB findings and make decisions based on those reports. The FAA is critical to the future of the Races because they provide us with the Waiver. Without that Waiver, we are a really cool Fly-In.

The Racers and Crews are all dealing with the events in the best way they know how. Many of us have reached out knowing that we can heal better together. I’ll include my photographer buddies in this group, because they are part of the overall “Crew” at Reno. I know I’m doing much better because of our conversations and I hope you all are also.

The Future

So far, I have heard only one Race Team Owner who has decided to not return. He has decided to sell his racer – and I’m hoping he changes his mind, so I rather not state who this is. I’ve talked with 100s of crew members and racers and maybe two or three have said they will not return. Of the fans, even those injured – actually especially those injured – nearly all of them are ready to be there again in September.

The consensus is, if we get the green light from the FAA, 2012 may be the Biggest Reno EVER!

I know that Team Ruby is working in the off season to tweak the changes we made last year. We have ordered some parts and put together a plan and we are focused on coming back. I have been telling people that it’s easier for us to put the brakes on than to speed up the train – so we’re assuming all systems are a go. Plus, the changes we are making to the racer will only make her a better aircraft.

Thank you to everyone for your kind words and comments. These events hit me harder than I expected. We continue to send our healing thoughts and prayers to the fans and the families affected by the events of last month.

Aviation Calendar

As many of you may know, Team Ruby did an Aviation Calendar last year which was very well received. Well, we just completed our 2012 version – just in time for Holiday Shopping! Please see our website here to place your order. There is also a link on the Pylon Place Blog Site.

Thank you!

Until next time, fly low, fly fast and turn left.

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

2011-10-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

Early Air Racing

Prior to World War II, air racing was the number one outdoor spectator sport. During this time aviation was in rapid development and it represented the leading edge of technology. The audiences were captivated by the engineering marvels, as well as the courageous pilots. Some things have not changed; we still do see developments made because of air racing. More likely today we use racing as a proving ground for new developments, which will slowly make their way into mainstream aircraft. And, we certainly have courageous pilots still, however, where have the crowds gone? Have they become so bored with flying that it is no longer remarkable? Or, do they just not know we exist?

Events

The first record of an air race I could find was one held in St. Louis, Missouri in 1908. There were only 4 airships - you know, blimps - in the US at the time and all of them participated. Two pilots were blown off course due to the high winds, and the other two finished, sharing the $5,000 prize.

Bennett Trophy

In 1909, The Gordon Bennett Trophy in Reims France was the first major international air race. Pilots from all over the world attended. American, Glenn Curtiss beat Frenchman, Louis Bleriot by five seconds and was named Champion Air Racer of the World. Because of this win, Curtiss was awarded the first pilot's license in the US. That is a great trivia question right there.

As it happens in many international competitions, the winning pilot's country will host the following year's competition. Because Glenn Curtiss won the previous year, the second Gordon Bennett Race was held in Belmont Park, Long Island. It then moved to England and the France again. The sixth and last Bennett Race consisted of 62 mile straight course. There were competitors from just the three countries who had won in the past, Great Britain, France and USA. The rule was - if a country won three times in a row, they could retire the trophy and the French did in that year.

Gordon Bennett was quite famous at the time as a balloon enthusiast and car racing fan. There is still a Balloon race with his name on it and at one time he sponsored a car racing trophy as well as the air race.

Schneider Trophy

Air racing started to catch on and in 1911, Jacques Schneider announced his version of a race, The Schneider Trophy was for seaplanes. The first race was held in 1913 in the waters off Monaco. The series continued until 1931 and provided great advancements in aerodynamics and engine design. Speeds went from 45 mph to 340 mph at the end of the stretch.

The National Air Races

The Pulitzer Trophy Races went from 1920-1925. These are considered to be the forerunner of the National Air Races at Cleveland. Established by newspaper publisher, Ralph Pulitzer, the first race was held at Mitchell Field in Garden City, Long Island. Four laps of a 29 mile course. The first year, 38 pilots competed. Most were military pilots with just a few civilians. The average winning speed increased from 156 in 1920 to nearly 250 mph in 1925.

These races morphed into the National Air Races and the Thompson Trophy Race. The Thompson Trophy was a closed course pylon racing event sponsored by Cleveland manufacturer Charles E. Thompson. This was the final event of each year's National Air Races in Cleveland and was the premier closed course event in the world. This would be the equivalent of the Unlimited Gold Final on Sunday at Reno.

These events brought the excitement of wing tip to wing tip racing while the competitors took to the air at the same time. All previous races had the competitors taking off at timed intervals. But, the action at Cleveland was thrilling for the fans.

The National Air Races consisted of both Pylon and Trans-continental races. These events started in 1920 and ended in 1949 when Bill Odom crashed during the race. These years were again defined by technological advancements in reliability and engine power.

Powder Puff Derby

The All-Woman Transcontinental Air Race (AWTAR) was dubbed the Powder Puff Derby by humorist and aviation advocate Will Rogers.The First Power Puff Derby took place in 1929 from Santa Monica to Cleveland. Each of the women pilots was to have logged 100 pilot hours and enter an aircraft with horsepower "appropriate" for a woman. One competitor, Opal Kunz, owned and flew her own 300 hp Travel Air and it was disallowed since it was deemed "too fast for a woman to fly". Um, okay.

Twenty women started that first Derby. Louise Thaden, Amelia Earhart, and Pancho Barnes were among them. Thaden won with Blanche Noyes and Gladys O'Donnell right behind her.

The Power Puff Derby started again in 1947 and continued on until 1977. Several similar events are run on a smaller scale today, without the hoopla and large crowds.

MacRobertson Air Race

Another very popular trans-continental was the MacRobertson Air Race from England to Australia in 1934. The de Havilland Comet flown by C. W. A. Scott and Tom Campbell Black won that race. There was a mediocre TV Movie called "The Great Air Race" made about the MacRobertson starring Barry Bostwick as Roscoe Turner and Helen Slater as Jackie Cochran.

Bendix Trophy

The Bendix Trophy was named for Vincent Bendix, founder of the Bendix Corporation. This began in 1931 as part of the National Air Races and the final Bendix Trophy Race was flown in 1962. The initial purpose of the race was to entice engineers into building faster, more reliable and more durable aircraft. The route went from Burbank, CA to Cleveland, Oh - except for two years when the route went from NY and ended in LA.

James Doolittle won the first Bendix; Amelia Earhart was the first woman to enter the race, taking fifth in 1935. However, in 1936, Louise Thaden and her co-pilot Blanche Noyes won the race, with Laura Ingalls finishing second. At the time, there were separate purses, one for the winner and one for the fastest woman. Louise and Blanche won both!

Reno National Championship Air Races

And that's how we got to where we are. Hopefully you enjoyed this brief history of early aviation competitions.

Until then, fly low, fly fast and turn left.

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

September 16, 2011 – The Saddest Day

2011-10-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

By now most of you have heard of our tragedy at the Reno Air Races on September 16th. I have still not come to a point where I can talk about what I saw and what I experienced. But, I wanted to tell you a story.

They say that Extraordinary People do Extraordinary Things. And I will say that every single one of the pilots and crew at the Reno Air Races are Extraordinary People. They breathe a little deeper, love a little harder, stand closer to the edge. We know there are dangers in doing what we do – but we never imagined our activities would hurt anyone else. Losing one of our own is a tragedy. Losing people who were only there to cheer us on is a catastrophe. Sometimes, these Extraordinary Things go extraordinarily wrong.

My thoughts and prayers are with those who were affected by this event. To the fans we lost, to their families and to the Reno and Air Racing Communities. We shall lean on each other to heal.

Let me tell you about Jimmy Leeward.

Jimmy learned to fly at a young age. He was a second generation pilot and proceeded to raise two more generations of aviators. They were a flying family, living in their own dream community – Leeward Air Ranch in Ocala, FL. The biggest thing for a new pilot was to have their first solo at the Ranch.

Jimmy was also a movie stunt pilot, actor and aviation consultant. He was involved with no less than 8 movies including Amelia, Tuskegee Airmen and Cloud Dancer. He had thousands of hours in hundreds of aircraft. He was a gifted professional.

The first time I met Jimmy we talked about Cloud Dancer and his role in the movie. He was gracious and kind and didn’t mind answering stupid questions from a newbie. Our friendship continued over the years. He always had time for his friends and his fans. If you stopped him for a picture (he never shied away from a camera) he had to shake your hand and chat with you for a minute. If you stopped him for an autograph, he made time for you. I have tried to model my public life after Jimmy and professionals like him.

He was a showman who loved the sport, loved to fly and loved the people around him. He loved his family – especially his wife, Bette – they always acted like teenagers in love together. My life is better for having known him and I will always remember his warmth and kindness.

Blue skies and tailwinds forever…

Reno Racing Prep

2011-08-25T16:22:00.000-07:00

For several months before the Reno Air Races, Race Teams are working diligently to get ready. There are hundreds of things to manage and prepare. I wanted to share with you some of the things we need to think about and give you my picks for this year’s races.

Registration

For each racing class, the deadline to have your entry in is the end of June. That’s just your “Here’s my intent to race, and my check”. We get another month to complete all of the paperwork, and there are volumes of it. Items on your list include the request to sell merchandise in your pit, the safety systems on your racer for Crash and Rescue and mountains of other official documentation.

For each class, you need to figure out where your pit will be, who your crew members will be, do you want a golf cart, how about a bicycle, RV parking? Oh, and race insurance – don’t forget that!

Aircraft

Of course, the most important thing is the Race Plane. But, that is not an easy task. Several Racers fly during the year in a different configuration from the race configuration. Some rarely fly at all during the off season – either way, there are very few who believe in the phrase “Run Whatcha Brung”.

Tom Aberle in Phantom with Norm Way hot on his tail
Credit: Anthony Taylor

Last minute engine changes are normal. New racing propellers, different systems and anything else that has changed since last year requires a level of testing. It’s nearly impossible to set up something similar to the race course, but we do try to test at a similar altitude to what we will experience at Reno, but that is not always possible. We do what we can.

It is customary to have at least 5 hours on the new racing configuration before you get to Reno. If you plan on changing propellers while up there, you need to test each propeller separately for the required period and mark it in the log books. This is basically what we’re doing each weekend prior to the races.

You also need to worry about Parachutes, Helmets, Flight Suits, Radios, Batteries, and Cameras.

Crew

For newer teams, finding the right mix of crewmembers is critical to your success. After a few years of working together, you get into a rhythm and things go much more smoothly. You always have to consider who will be on the crew. Then, of course – you need to start making hotel reservations, where are you staying? Oh, half the team wants to stay in an RV in the back lot. That’s fine – just I needed to know two months ago. Don’t worry, we’ll make it work.

Formula Crews getting ready on a cold desert morning
Credit: Tim Adams

Who is bringing the toolbox, who has the battery charger, who has the tables and chairs, what else do we need for the Pit? For the “outside” teams, they have to worry about trailer, shade and dealing with much larger crews.

And what will the crew wear? I know that sounds like minutia, but the Warlock Crew wore identical shirts every day – and each day they were different. Each night, the Crew Mom (Anita) would hand each of them a bag with tomorrow’s shirt in it. It’s is just another thing to add to that To-Do list.

Merchandise

Speaking of shirts, many crews sell enormous amounts of merchandise at the races. Someone has to develop the logo, decide what to order, what sizes and colors, etc. Then you need to order it and figure out how to get it delivered to the field in time for the first day. There are fans out there that buy 2 or more shirts from each of their favorite teams and wear them out during the year. They are first in line come opening day to refill their closets.

Click here to shop for Ruby Gear!

Final Checklists

For years, I would pack all of my things and hand them out to several of the other racers and crew members who were headed up around the same time. My Pitts is so small, I couldn’t fit three days of luggage, never mind ten days – plus tools, etc. So, I would farm out my luggage, tools, chairs, etc., to several of the other teams. And usually, by the time I arrived, most of my stash was there. I had to do the same on the way back. It worked – and I was very appreciative of my helpers.

You are always wondering – should we do something different this year? What can we do better?

So, when you see the production each team goes through during Race Week to field a competitive product – remember, this activity started no later than June, and probably around November. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

News

This year is going to be great. Most classes have a full field and even with all the end of the summer wrangling – I still believe we are going to have some great racing and most of your favorites will be in attendance.

Biplanes and Sport Class are fielding a full line up. Both of these classes do quite a bit of Marketing in the off –season to keep their rosters full.

Unfortunately, T6 and F1 are down in attendance this year. But, I’m hoping this is just a momentary lull and they will be filling the ramps and hangars again soon. Jets should also be full this year.

My Picks

Tom Aberle is the man to beat in Biplanes. He has been consistently improving his Phantom and if he’s still running on Sunday, he’ll have another Gold Jacket to wear. Although, Norm Way will be right there if he has a misstep. Formula 1 also has a clear favorite and that would be Endeavor and Steve Senegal.

The Sport Class is getting faster every year
Credit: Anthony Taylor

Sport Class should be interesting. My guess is that Mike Dacey will repeat. His Questair Venture is wickedly fast and seems to get faster every year. Kevin Eldredge will have a normally aspirated NXT this year and John Parker’s Thunder Mustang will also be in the hunt. Daryl Greenamyer is sitting out this year and John Sharp has officially retired from air racing.

Dennis Buehn and Nick Macy will duke it out again for the T6 Gold. They are both veterans and know what it takes to win. For the Jets, it will likely be Curt Brown or Mike Mangold. I’d love to see Mike take it this year. He’s patiently finished second for years, which I know isn’t a comfortable place for him.

Also, sad to report, it doesn’t look like Heather Penney’s jet will be ready in time. They had an incident during PRS and there seems to be more work that needs to be done than days available to do it. That is not unusual for this time of year. So many teams say – if I only had a few more weeks…. I’d be ready. It’s never a good idea to rush it.

Looks like we will be missing Heather Penney's Raju Grace this year

Now, Unlimited… Strega is back with Stevo. They are going for the tenth win overall, Tiger had seven and Stevo has two… now, can they bring it home again? Voodoo and Rare Bear are poised to take the lead if Strega falters -- even for a second.

Strega Pilot Stevo Hinton and Crew Chief LD Hughes working together
Credit: Tim Adams

Dreadnought, Furias, 232 and Galloping Ghost could do it also. Czech is on the list – but I'm not sure they will be there. And knowing how they have been working on her for the last two years, I know she’ll be fast.

When it comes to the Unlimited Gold, I have no idea who will win – my only hope is that everyone is running at the end of the day on Sunday and all of the pilots can fly their racers home come Monday morning.

See you at the Races!

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

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The Race for the Races

2011-07-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

Each year around this time, all of the race teams are fervently working to get everything ready for September. This year is no different, and if possible, this year seems even more active. As always, things change quickly – so what we are going to discuss today is what we have so far. Things may change – you never know!

There are new planes and old friends joining us this year. The Unlimited Class will have a full field for the first time since 2007. New entries include Odegaards’ newest Corsair, #74 with the massive R-4360 powerplant. This aircraft was owned and raced by Cook Cleland back in the Cleveland Air Race days. This will be the second F2G the Odegaards have restored and raced. Many of you will remember the Super Corsair, #57 from a few years ago. This one is beautiful and should not disappoint any of the Corsair fans out there.

Another exciting return after a short hiatus is September Fury – yes #232 is scheduled to be at Reno again this year. This fan favorite is currently owned by Rod Lewis and is in Chino getting some final race preparations. It will be good to see our old friend rounding the pylons again. So far, no pilot has officially been named, but we have ideas about who it will be. (Hint... He's a HOOT!)

Yes, that's 232 getting some race prep by the magicians in Chino

Precious Metal will be back this year with Thom Richard as the pilot. The aircraft was purchased shortly before PRS in June and Thom arrived with the entire crowd cheering for him. PM will have some new paint and a few minor tweaks and should be faster than ever. Congrats to Team Thom!

One more returning racer is Furias – Bill Roger’s old Sea Fury is now owned by Chuck Greenhill and is in the capable hands of Sanders’ Aeronautics, getting ready for the much anticipated unveiling in September. Matt Jackson is scheduled to be the pilot. We look forward to seeing what this beauty will do after the rebuild.

With the usual suspects scheduled to be there, Strega having made some minor off season changes and Voodoo in the capable hands of Will Whiteside, these two Mustangs will likely be battling for the front with Rare Bear piloted this year by Stewart Dawson. The Bear looks better than ever.

Beyond 232 and Rare Bear, Rod Lewis will also be bringing El Jefe with a new paint job. My best guess is he will likely pilot El Jefe himself – he attended PRS with Here Kitty Kitty for practice.

Rod Lewis getting some practice in one of his beautiful Tigercats during PRS

More Sea Fury action from Dreadnought and Argonaut will have Dennis Sanders primary on Dread and Mark Watt primary on Argo. But there are plenty of alternate pilots in that mix. Korey Wells will see some time in Argo and Brian Sanders will probably get a few laps in on Dread. They are building both race planes and race pilots in Ione these days. And don’t forget - Sawbones will be back with Dan Vance in the pilot’s seat. Dan had raced 911 September Pops for years when it was owned by Mike Brown. Happy to see Dan back behind a round engine!

Argonaut being flown by rookie Korey Wells and Precious Metal flown by Unlimited Rookie Thom Richard at PRS in June.

Brand new to the lineup is John O’Connor’s “Blue Angel” Bearcat. John owned American Beauty which was raced by Fred Cabanas back in 2008. This time Nelson Ezell will be in the cockpit. It will be nice to have him back after a short vacation.

Czech Mate was listed as possible - but is closer to doubtful right now. They are working with many brilliant minds to make sure the Little Yak will be able to structurally handle the incredible speeds she has been seeing over the last few years.

And now for you Ghost fans… yes, the Galloping Ghost is on the list – with Jimmy Leeward as the pilot. I love to see the fan reaction to this news. So many people are pulling for this one – hopefully we will see her full potential this year.

Doug Matthews will bring both his warbirds, The Rebel – his pristine P-51 and his Corsair – which will likely be flown by rookie John Currenti.

Another busy racer will be John Maloney. He is currently listed as the pilot for the FW-190, Boise Bee and Steadfast. Plus, if you know John – he’ll be lending a hand to assist other crews all week. He is certainly not someone to sit idly by.

Speaking of Boise Bee, this is the new P-51B from the Paul family. The word from John Curtiss is they will be bringing both P-40s (Sneak Attack and Parrothead) and the Bee. Jim Thomas, John Curtiss and John Maloney will take turns flying these entries.

Having avoided several tornadoes by just a few miles, Brent Hisey will be back with his beauty, Miss America. The Eberhardt family will be there with Merlin’s Magic. Sparky and the Jelly Belly will be in the lineup as well as Speedball Alice and Lady Jo.

The Usual Suspects will be there, plus a few exciting new entries

Not sure how many aircraft Chuck Greenhill will bring above and beyond Furias. Both Geraldine and Lou IV are entered. Dave Morss will have both Polar Bear and the T28 called “The Bear”. Air Biscuit will be there also with Tom Camp.

I think I covered everyone on my list. But as I said, things change rapidly as we approach the races.

Sport Class

Just a teaser for you Sport Class fans out there… They have a full field, which will be three heats of 9 airplanes each. The other good news is they will have 5 new engines racing this year. This includes 2 V-8s, a Mazda Rotary, an M-14P Radial and a French Diesel from Team Big Frog. Also, the “Metal Mafia” is back – including several Harmon and F1 Rockets. And of course, Cantina Owner Dick Ogg will be there in Plastic Piglet.

One of the new Sport Class Rookies flying the Radial Rocket, powered by the M-14P

It’s shaping up to be a great year and next month we will review the other classes and pick some favorites to win. If you haven’t already purchased your tickets and secured your hotel and rental car, now is the time. Can’t wait to see you all there!

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

Special thanks to Anthony Taylor of Warbird Fotos for use of his photographs from PRS!

Air Racers 3D - Force of Flight

2011-07-14T17:01:00.000-07:00

The phone rang. A voice on the other end of the phone asked me if I would be interested in taking part in the Air Racers 3D IMAX movie being filmed about the Reno Air Races. Would I? Really? Of course I would! More phone calls, more emails, small moments of hysteria, and I was on my way to Reno to take part in the project.

From the press release: "Through the eyes of first-time competitor and rookie pilot Steve Hinton Jr., son of champion air racer and acrobatic pilot Steve Hinton, the film will chronicle the preparation for and competition in the world's fastest motor sport: the legendary Reno National Championship Air Races. The film will be in Imax 3D and 2D theatres in the US beginning in the fall."

Sounds great, right? While I had been hearing about this film for years now, getting the chance to be part of it - even a small part - was amazing. I arrived on Friday afternoon while they were still shooting some of the Unlimited action. Strega and Stevo were on hand as well as Brant Seghetti in Sparky, Matt Jackson in Wee Willy, Stu Dawson in Here Kitty, Kitty. A helicopter was set up with the 3D camera with Kevin LaRosa, long time aerial filming giant at the helm. The scene looked quite similar to the races during the first few days of set up. It was eerily familiar.

Because of the short notice, not all of my crew members could be there. However, Matt Williams and Don Dull were on hand with Manager, Jason Fisher being left behind. Matt immediately took to polishing Ruby to make her sparkle like the gem she is. Quick meetings with the production crew, locating my car, hotel, etc., Thanks everyone - we'll see you tomorrow.

The next morning, we were told the pilot brief would be at 8am. During the races, the Biplanes brief at 7am and the door closes on the briefing room at 6:59 and if you're not inside by then, you do not race that day. So, this was almost a luxury! We arrive around 7am and start getting the airplanes ready. We head over to the briefing room at 7:45 and nothing happens until around 9:15. We are all laughing about the difference between filming and RACING.

As mentioned, majority of the film would be about Stevo and Strega. But the producers wanted to show some background to the races, the airshow acts, the other classes which compete and the action outside of the Unlimiteds. I was chosen to represent the Biplane Class, while Phil Goforth and Jay Jones were there with the Formula 1 Class. Just like during race week, we would fly earlier in the day and would work together.

My shoot

First thing we do is attach one of the 3D cameras onto my right I-strut. My crew is on hand to make sure everything is done to their satisfaction. They are in charge of keeping me and Ruby safe - so no camera movement, or too much weight, etc. Now we're ready for show time.

The helicopter takes to the air and provides constant feedback and direction. Taxi to the run up area, taxi into position, helicopter follows my takeoff down the full length of runway 8. Then, we went to altitude, and I followed Kevin's direction for "beauty shots". I flew towards the camera and away from the camera, making sure we had the perfect background. These shots are going to be amazing - the mountains still had snow on them and the sun was hitting the hills creating incredible color. What a morning to fly!

When my airwork was complete, the helicopter followed me down to my landing - not my best, but not my worst either. We ended with some shots of me taxiing into position and having my joyous crew greet me for the debrief. Actually, we do precisely that after every race. Cameras and people were everywhere, so my signature twirl was a little more risky - but authentic.

The rest of the day was spent watching the other classes. Lee Behel and Kevin Eldredge flew for the Sport Class. Denis Buehn and John Zayak were on hand to represent the T6s while Heather Penney and John Kokshoorn flew for the Jet Class.

The movie should hit theatres later this year. I'll keep you posted and hope you circle your calendars.

Reno prep begins in earnest now and next month's column will be about the new racers who attended PRS. Until then, Fly low, fly fast and turn left.

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

IMAX Filming in preparation for the Air Racers - 3D movie
Credit: 3D Entertainment

The Women of Reno Air Racing

2011-03-31T15:06:00.000-07:00

Last month, we talked about Women in Aviation and I shared with you some of my mentors along my path. This month, I’d like to share with you a little about the women who have raced at Reno.

No Surprise - Formula One has had the second highest number of women racers

Since there is really no definitive source on all of this, I’m relying on the facts I have been able to gather through RARA and through conversations with other racers. If any of this is incorrect, I apologize – and contact me with the correct information.

Through the years

The numbers are not remarkable, Over the 47 years of Air Racing at Reno – 24 women have raced. The Biplanes take the lead with 9 women; Formula 1 has had 7; Sport Class has had 2; T6 had 3; Jets have had 2 and Unlimited – just one. Several others have attended PRS and have been listed as racers, but have not actually put up a qualifying time or completed a race.

The first woman to race at Reno was Connie Marsh in the Biplane Class. Connie started in 1969. She was about 90 lbs soaking wet with dimes in her pockets and the Biplane Class decided her size was a benefit for her. They required her to be weighed and decided to add ballast to her aircraft to make up for her diminutive size.

Another Biplane Racer at the time was also under the 150 lbs arbitrary number the Biplane Class chose. He told me about going into town and getting as many silver dollars as he could and he wore a heavy leather jacket with many pockets to hide the coins he used so he didn’t need to add ballast to his own aircraft.

Her first year, Connie flew Lowers Special – a Smith Mini Plane. This model is rarely competitive in the Biplane Class and all of the angst was for nothing, really. The next year, she returned with the Hill Mong and was more competitive. But, she broke the barrier and slowly but surely – women started to become Air Racers.

In 1970, Connie was joined by Joan Alford. Joan flew in the F1 Class in Pogo for two years. In 1971, Joan was joined by Judy Wagner flying the Wagner Solution. She became the first woman to win a Formula One race – actually any race at Reno. Judy raced the Solution from 1971 until 1981. This plane was renamed Judy and has returned to Reno with new owner Holbrook Maslen.

Colene Giglio was the first woman to race in the T-6 Class starting in 1974. T-6's raced at Cleveland in the late '40s in the Halle Trophy Races with all women pilots. Colene raced until 1977 and last I heard she was running a Flight School at Long Beach Airport.

Erin Rheinschild is the sole Unlimited Racer. She raced from 1990 – 1992 in Miss Fit. She won the Bronze in 1990. Then in 1992, she qualified, and her husband Bill ended up racing the airplane. I’ve always wanted to meet Erin. I understand she was highly respected by the “brethren”. Bill continues to race but Erin has not returned. Bill owned the Sea Fury named Bad Attitude and still owns Risky Business, a beautiful P-51 Mustang.

Lori Love raced the in the F1 Class from 1983 to 1995. The Scholl Special was owned by Chuck Wentworth. She showed up her first year with an all female crew. She later raced Flying Dutchman for Tommy Aslett. From what I’ve been told, she was highly respected as a pilot and enjoyed her years racing. She moved on to other flying adventures after her racing days concluded. In 2007, her plane was lost while flying over Western Africa.

In 1985, Patti (Nelson) Johnson joined the races. She flew Spring Fever and then Miss USA in Formula 1. Adding the Biplane Class to her resume in 1992 – she flew Full Tilt Boogie, winning the Biplane Gold in 1993, 1995 and 1996. She was a member of the U.S. Aerobatic team in 1980-82, winning one gold, three silver and two bronze medals. She was also Women’s National Aerobatic champion in 1982.

Over the years, Biplanes have attracted the most women racers

In 1987, Peggy Penketh decided to race in the Biplane Class. Her husband at the time, Mike Penketh, had been racing for a few years and had recently built a new racer. His old racer was her way into the game. She flew for three years in Biplane #4 (same number I have now) called Passion Pitts. Peggy is now married to long time racer Tom Dwelle and can usually be found in the Dwelle Pit Area.

In 1987, Katharine Gray joined the Formula Class in Pogo – the same aircraft Joan Alford raced in the early 70’s. In 1994, Katharine moved over to Geronimo, a GR-7 designed by Robbie Grove.

Also in 1987, Linda Finch joined the T-6 Class. She raced until 1992. In 1997, Linda participated in a recreation of the final Amelia Earhart Flight in a 1935 Lockheed Electra 10E. Wisely, Linda’s Electra was outfitted with a GPS and was modified to carry 1800 gallons of fuel, compared to Earhart’s estimated 800 gallons. It took her 10 weeks to make this trip.

Madelaine Kennedy flew in the F1 Class from 1990-1994, in Video Cassutt (cute play on words) and later Fandango. I believe she still owns her Cassutt.

Bonnie Warner may be a name you will remember from the Winter Olympics. She competed in the Luge and Bobsled. After the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Bonny received a $10,000 scholarship and decided to earn her pilot’s license. She added the Reno Air Races to her resume with the coaxing of fellow racer Randy Howell. She flew only one year.

Lynn Getchell raced one year, 1994, in Okie Twister. She was the wife of popular warbird pilot Ellsworth Getchell who owns one of the remaining Bristol Centaurus powered Sea Furys.

Mary Dilda joined the T-6 Class in 1996. She and her then husband, Steve,shared flying duties for Two of Hearts for years until she won the coin toss and he bought Felix. She first one the Gold in 1997 in Mystical Power. Later she won again in 2005. She also raced in the Jet Class from 2002 – 2004 – winning the Gold in 2003. Mary is the only woman to have won Gold in two different classes at Reno. Jackie Warda raced Biplane from 2002 – 2004; leaving to fly airshows.

Vicki Cruse and I attended PRS together in 2003. Vicki raced her Glasair intermittently between 2003-2006. When she wasn’t racing at Reno, she was preparing to fly at the National Aerobatic Championships to complete her other goal of being the USA’s National Aerobatic Champion. She accomplished this in 2007 and was killed in 2009 at the World Aerobatic Championships. Before her untimely death, she was being touted as a front runner for Steve Fossett’s LSR Driver. She was a racer and a competitor all the way.

In 2006, Leah Sommers, Erica Hoagland and Amber Applegate were all Rookies in the Biplane Class. Due to a paperwork issue, Amber was unable to compete that year, Leah and Erica finished in the Bronze. Later Leah would come back and I believe will race again in the future. Erica left the Biplane Class and moved to the Formula 1 Class in 2008. She was unfortunately lost during a training flight that year. Casey Erickson joined the Biplane Class in 2008.

In 2010, both Heather Penney, daughter of John Penney – and Vicky Benzing attended PRS. Heather raced in the Jet Class and Vicky raced in the Sport class in Vicki Cruse’s Glasair as a tribute to her late friend.

That’s it, in a nutshell - the 24 women who have raced at the Reno Air Races since the beginning. I can only hope this is just the beginning and women will do more for the sport in the future.

Until next time .. Fly low, Fly Fast and Turn Left,
Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

**Thanks again to Tim Adams Photography for the use of his incredibly photos.**

February is Women in Aviation Month

2011-02-06T11:57:00.000-08:00

Because February is Women in Aviation Month, I was asked to focus this month’s column on this topic and believe me, this was a very interesting request. I spent most of the last month thinking about the women who have inspired me, and realizing my responsibility to the next generation.

In 2010, I attended my first Oshkosh. During this event, I made sure I was on-site for the Women in Aviation Photo Shoot. An estimated 600 joined together in our yellow t-shirts for this special event. Long time pilot, Betty “Boopsie” Sherman was with me while I searched the area for others. I wanted to stand with my California Pilot Pals and other special friends. We gathered together long time pilots Andrea Eldridge, Debby Rihn-Harvey, Carri Hoagland and new pilots Bonnie “Bonz” Ritchey and Jan Causey Johnson. That was an amazing time for me. I felt the pride of all of those women and realized I was not alone in my experiences.

Caption: Me and about 600 of my closest friends - can you find me?

A recent study tried to determine why, in the USA – women comprise over 50% of the population, but less than 6% of pilots. The study results suggested several reasons – some I will disregard because they can be attributed to either gender. Examples include; Flight School Closed, Frequent Instructor Changes and Limited Funds – those aren’t gender specific.

The ones I focused on included; Limited Mechanical Knowledge, Instructor Incompatibility and No Female Mentors. I believe these items are relevant and realistic.

Another study focused on air crashes between 1983 and 1997 – studying 144 female and 287 male pilot’s incidents. The results showed the male pilots had more flawed decision making while the females were more fearful and hence, mishandled the aircraft. More fear – more aptitude issues.

Some of my Mentors

I was lucky enough to have some amazing female mentors in my life. The first one I always think of would be Marta Meyer. Marta was a World Class Aerobatic Competitor; she was a Chief Engineer for NASA at their Dryden Flight Research Center, was the first female crew member on the SR-71 and worked on many other incredible projects. She was a CFI, A&P and IA. She also was a prankster and a wonderful friend.

She taught me that training removes fear. Know more about your aircraft, know how it works, how the engine works, how it spins and why, if you always learn – knowledge will replace your fear. She also taught me that you need to be serious when you’re in the aircraft – but when you’re not, it’s perfectly acceptable to throw a dinner roll and start a food fight at the banquet. I treasure the time I had with her and still think of her often. I was blessed to call her my friend.

Vicki Cruse is a name many of you will know. She was a National Unlimited Aerobatic Champion, World Class Aerobatic Pilot, President of an aviation company, President of the IAC, Sport Class Racer and friend. Vicki knew so much about her aircraft – she wrote a column about the technical side to flying. She was incredibly talented and incredibly learned.

Many of you won’t know the name Andrea Rice. Andrea was the first Lead for the Patriots. She was incredibly talented and I learned much from her by listening and watching. She was a leader – an amazing woman.

Another woman who taught me much was a Naval Aviator – who wrote a book about her experience called “She's Just Another Navy Pilot:” If you haven’t read it – you should. Loree Draude Hirschman was one of the first women combat pilots aboard a ship in 1995. While the news was all about gender bias and the pressing social issues of the time – Loree looked at herself as “just another navy pilot” and did her job without calling attention to her gender. Her story is about proving yourself and using your skill, courage and determination to make it in a new role. She taught me more than she’ll ever know.

Caption: She’s more than just another Navy Pilot – with her F18 driving husband, "Hairball".

What women should know before becoming a pilot …

Women think differently than men. When an instructor or a coach tells you that you need more top rudder in your rolls, it doesn’t mean you’re not a good person, or that you are stupid, or your mother wears army boots. It most likely means that you need more top rudder in your rolls. Learning to take constructive criticism without taking it personally is essential to becoming a better pilot.

Avgas is terrible on nails. Yes, it practically eats away at nail polish. Wearing gloves doesn’t help much. But, it’s VERY important for you to fuel your own aircraft. Every time you touch your plane, you have the chance to learn something. Every time you wash your own plane, you learn something. Take every chance, learn everything, if you have the ability to help with your annual inspections – do it.

Helmets and headsets do terrible things to your hair. May I suggest a hat? Safety gear is not sexy – but it’s also essential. Helmets, parachutes, flight suits, whatever it takes, wear them. You can look pretty later – at the banquet, party, dinner, etc.

The airport is the place to be. I’m lucky enough to have a bunch of “big brothers” at my airport who have taken me under their wing (pun intended) and answered my questions, taught me things, flew with me and basically became my airport family. I am incredibly lucky to have these people in my life! I love you guys – the Cantina Crew!

I’ve always been a bit of a tomboy – loved sports, cars, racing, etc. – this certainly helped me out in getting along with my fellow pilots. However, just being confident, skilled and determined is all our wingmen ask of us. It’s not easy – but it’s worth it.

My turn

Lately, more and more people have reminded me that it is now my turn. I now have the chance to repay all of the women who have helped me along the way by making myself available to help others. In 2010, I took five women for their first small airplane ride. I promise to continue introducing women to aviation.

Believe me, I know that I have a lot to learn about flying – but I will take a more active role in mentoring others – to being there when someone has a question, listening, giving an encouraging word – it’s all part of it. I hope that I can inspire the next generation of female pilots - one flight at a time.

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

Caption: The Aviator - Any day I'm flying is one of the happiest days of my life!

The Evolution of Civilian Jet Teams

2011-01-08T17:40:00.000-08:00

It seems I cannot walk down the street these days without someone asking me about Jets. Not the NY Jets, but the Civilian Jet Teams or the Jet Class at the Reno Air Races. Oddly enough, the growth of these groups seems to be related.

While at the International Council of Air Shows Convention last month, much was said about the Jet Teams being formed or adding members. It’s a phenomenon worthy of note.

It all started with the Stoli MiGs. Around 1998, Randy Howell and Jerry Gallud could be seen in their beautifully restored, bright red MiG 17s at Airshows and events around the country. While performing an Airshow routine, MiGs burn approximately 1000 gallons of jet fuel per hour, an enormous amount of fuel. Stoli, wisely, chose to sponsor them in a big way and claimed it was the best advertisement in Stoli history, This was known as the birth of the Civilian Jet Team. Later they changed sponsors to Smirnoff.

*Special thanks to Mike Idacavage for the use of his picture

Several of you were there at the “Birth of the Jet Class at Reno”. The Stoli MiGs were joined by Jimmy Leeward in his MiG, Steve Hinton in his T-33 and Rick Vandam in Wild Child. The first jet class demo was just before the 500mph attempt with Skip Holm and Dago Red, five jets took to the air for the first Demo Jet Race. It was AWESOME. Randy and Jimmy were flying together, Rick and Jerry were together and Steve was somewhere in the middle. It seems Jimmy doesn’t like to have someone flying too closely, so he went into burner on the back of the course and pulled way ahead, and practically off the course. I was there and remember it as incredibly fun to watch.

The Patriots

In 2003, the MiGs became L-39s and the Patriots were born. The first year they were a two jet team = exciting, unusual and pretty darn cool. Their schedule, fans, team and #s grew yearly. In 2011, they will have a SIX JET TEAM! This will be amazing to watch.

The Patriots are let lead by Randy Howell; who I have known since the late 90s. He has always had a vision of what he wanted to do with the jets. His hangar is filled with MiGs, L-39s, and other aerobatic and non-aerobatic airplanes. His personality, commitment and professionalism are the cornerstones of the team.

*Thank you to The Patriots for the use of their photo

It all comes together with Sponsorship! From the beginning, the Patriots were lucky enough to find Fry’s Electronics. Randy Fry is a fan of aviation and has been there helping support the Patriots from the beginning. They also have Hot Line Construction (owned by Carol Bade) as another enormous supporter. The General Manager of Hot Line is also one of the Patriot pilots, Troy Myers.

When Randy wanted to go from a 4-ship show, to a 6-ship show, he went to his two largest sponsors and asked for their help. They made it happen – and the West Coast Airshow Fans are the lucky recipients.

If you haven’t seen the Patriots, they put on a high powered Jet Show. The formations are terrific – there is always something in front of the crowds, and the multi-colored smoke just makes the show.

Exciting news to Reno Fans – they will be performing this year at the Reno Air Races. And for the SF Fleet Week Fans – It sounds like the Patriots may be joining the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds and Canadian Snowbirds over the skies of SF in October. I have already circled that weekend on my Ruby Red Calendar! Check for their full schedule at their website http://www.patriotsjetteam.com

Heavy Metal Jet Team

Word came out a few months ago that there is a new Jet Team in town. The Heavy Metal Jet Team is led by Dale “Snort” Snodgrass and Jerry “Jive” Kerby, both familiar names to Airshow fans.

Jared “Rook” Isaacson made it happen when this accomplished Warbird and General Aviation pilot joined the group and added his company’s sponsorship. Jared is the Founder and CEO of United Bank Card, the sole sponsor of the Heavy Metal Jet Team.

*Thank you to the Heavy Metal Jet Team and to Kristina McCarthy-Martin for the use of this photo

The team will consist of five jets, four L-39s and a T-33. The stark Arctic camo color scheme will certainly catch the attention of Airshow fans on the East Coast this year. I wish them luck and can’t wait to see their show! More information and their schedule can be found at their website http://heavymetaljets.com

Teams, Sponsors and Foundations

Three things came to me when I was researching the Jet Teams for this column. Nearly all of the pilots are military trained. Actually – not just military but Military Jet Team. There are Blue Angels, Thunderbirds and even a Snowbird on the rosters -- high powered talent, to be sure.

The second thing was the sponsors. All of them said they couldn’t have done it without the support of sponsors. And I have to say Thank You to all of the corporate sponsors of Airshow Performers!

The final thing is their Foundations. The Patriots have formed a Foundation that is centered on motivating kids to have careers in Aviation. And the Heavy Metal Jets are dedicating their first Airshow season to another worthy cause, the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Good luck to all of you and have a great 2011!

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing

The Beginning of Biplane Racing at Reno

2010-12-14T10:54:00.000-08:00

The first Air Races in Reno started in 1964. Most of you know the story of Bill Stead and his dream to recreate the Cleveland Air Races in the high desert. But, not many of you know how the Biplanes became part of the project.

Legend has it that Bill Stead went to the Merced Antique Fly-In in 1964 and met up with Sandy Sanders. Sandy was there announcing for several of the Air Show Acts. Bill was there to promote the upcoming Races and to look over some of the acts with an eye on booking them for the Races. Bill told Sandy about the event and asked him to come up and assist with the announcing duties.

Clyde Parsons was also at the Air Show. Bill talked Clyde into bringing his Knight Twister Biplane up to race it in the inaugural Sport Biplane Race. At the time, it was called the Midget Biplanes because the Races also had Stearman Races – and compared to a Stearman.. we are Midgets!

The Knight Twister is a Homebuilt Sport Biplane designed by Vernon Payne. Clyde was heard saying that the bathtub in his home was bigger than the Biplane – and it probably was.

Clyde Parsons went on to win the first Biplane Race at Reno. He flew his Knight Twister at a speed of just under 145 mph in the Gold Final. Clyde finished second in 1965 and was the first President of the Professional Race Pilots Association – Biplane Division.

The Knight Twister dominated that first year at Reno with the top three finishers. By 1966, the Twister in its basic configuration was outlawed based on the new rule for wing area. Interesting fact, of the planes which flew in that first race, none of them were Pitts, which now dominate the class.

The competitive nature of racers made it essential for rules to be established. Paul Poberezny, then President of the EAA, assisted the Class in developing the Rules. The wing area minimum was 75 square feet, as it is today. Fixed pitch props, fixed gear, and maximum of 290 cubic inches are all the same; these rules are close to the way they are today, except our engines are now up to 360 cubic inches.

The Class was intended to serve the purpose of being a relatively inexpensive way to go racing. Our speeds have increased over 100 mph in the 47 years since that first race. The size of the engines, the closed canopies, and several safety features have also changed. But, we should probably thank Clyde Parsons and the other four competitors that first year, for going racing.

Aviation Calendar

Ruby Red Racing Calendars are available this year. We put together a collection of our favorite Air Racing Photographs over the last year or so and created a wonderful first edition Calendar. Buy one for your favorite aviator and one for yourself – here…

Thank you and have a great Holiday Season. We’ll be back next year with more. Until then, be good to each other, and don’t forget to fly low, fly fast and turn left.

2011 RENO AIR RACING CALENDARS

2010-11-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to order your 2011 Reno Air Racing Calendars!

Click Here.

All your Air Racing Favorites -- including Voodoo, 232, Strega, Rare Bear, FW190, Tigercat, Ruby, and the Ghost...

Hope you like it!

Reno Recap - Part 2

2010-10-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

Reno Recap - Close Racing 2010

Last month we looked at some of the highlights and lowlights of the 2010 National Championship Air Races in Reno, NV. This month, I wanted to look at some of the lesser known stories and answer some of the questions being asked by the fans.

There was some amazing racing going on, but not always for the Gold. How many of you were able to catch some of these epic races hidden away in the background.

Sport Class

In the Sport Class Silver, there was a three way race for third which was nothing short of amazing. Bob Jeffrey had 1st place all wrapped up with Scott Nelson nipping at his heels. Did you see the race for third? This was between Dave Morss, Earl Hibler and Pete Zaccagnino. The final results had them crossing the finish line in less than 2 seconds between them. The race was close, but not the closest of the week.

Dave Morss was flying his personal aircraft because his project for Team Driven was unavailable in time for the races. While we anxiously await the new ride, we appreciate the fact that Dave made this year’s races VERY close – in more than one class.

I should also mention two of my favorites in this race. Rick Vandam flew my friend’s Glasair. Rob Monaghan has been announcing for the Sport and Super Sport Classes for several years now. He has built two Glaisairs and is an integral member of the Sport Class. Unfortunately, for professional reasons is not able to race, but his aircraft is not under such restrictions. He had long time Reno Racer, Rick Vandam flying his plane for him this year.

My other favorite in this race is Dick Ogg in his Glasair. Dick is finishing up his tenure with this aircraft and preparing his Lancair Legacy to race in the future. While not currently finishing up front, his plans are to be more competitive in his new aircraft. More on this as it gets closer to completion.

Credit: Tim Adams
Caption: Some of the best racing comes out of this hangar

Jets - Silver

The Gold Jet Race was all about Curt Brown in the front and Mike Mangold trailing closely behind. But, if you saw the Jets Silver Race, you would have seen a gaggle of L29s mixing it up the entire race. In fact, during the first race of the series, the Jet Provost came out of nowhere to pass them all. But, on the final race on Sunday, it was three L29s flying aggressively to the finish.

Thom Richard was far ahead in his Iskra, Cliff Magee in a close 2nd place in his L-39 and then Heather Penney, daughter of John Penney, finished ahead of John Kopkshoom and Greg McNutt – even with a cut pylon. Thom bumped to the Jet Gold, so Cliff was given the win. However, the racing in this class between these relatively stock L29s was a whole lot of fun to watch.

Credit: Bruce Croft
Caption: L29s providing close racing in the Jet Class Silver

Biplane Bronze

Last month, I mentioned the Biplane Bronze as some of the best racing out there. Since we are talking about close races, I wanted to make sure I brought it up again. The picture below shows four of the six aircraft crossing the finish within half a second. This was some outstanding flying and some very exciting racing.

Credit: Tim O’Brien
Caption: Some of the best racing was in the Biplane Class

T6 Silver

It always seems the great race is for third. This time, in the T6 Silver there was Chris Rushing in Honesty Entry followed closely by Ken Gottschall and Chip Woods. Chip and Ken finished within .16 second, which means they were likely elbow to elbow crossing the line.

T6 racing is always close because of the nature of the class. Relatively stock aircraft – so similar in speeds and set up make for some interesting finishes.

Credit: Matty Ratliff
Caption: Historically the T-6 Class has provided very close racing

Unlimited Silver – the Battle of the Mustangs

This year, the Unlimited Silver race became the Battle of the Mustangs. We had Rob Patterson in Lady Jo, Brant Seghetti in Sparky, Mark Watt in Geraldine, Dave Morss in Jerry Gabe’s Polar Bear, Rob Gordon in Speedball Alice and Dan Martin in Sal Rubino’s Grim Reaper. This was a close race and so much fun to watch.
Rob Patterson bumped to Gold and John-Curtiss Paul finished behind the Mustangs in his P-40N, Parrothead followed by Doug Matthews in his gorgeous Corsair.

Because the Unlimited Gold was unable to run due to the weather, this was the race to watch – and what a race it was.

Credit: Bruce Croft
Caption: The Battle of the Mustangs, Polar Bear and Geraldine

Unlimited Bronze

I know you are going to think I’m crazy, but the race between the Wildcat, “Air Biscuit” and the T-28, “The Bear” was some of the best of the weekend. Again we see Dave Morss battling it out, this time for second place, with long time air racer, Brian Sanders in Tom Camp’s Wildcat. I’ve spoken to several people about this race and have to say, if you missed it – you must have been sleeping. They were wingtip to wingtip nearly the entire race. It looked like fun from the ground; I bet it was even more fun in the air.

The race was won by Jim McKinstry in the Yak 3 known as Shiska Su’ka. Chuck Greenhill in his stock Mustang, Lou IV and John Maloney in the FW190 finished behind Dave and Brian. There will be more in an upcoming column about the FW190. Stay tuned – because you don’t want to miss this.

Questions and Answers

Before the races, we have “silly season” when rumors are flying and stories are told. After the races, we have a different type of season – this is more along the lines, “did you hear…”. I want to answer some of the questions which came up after the races were over and clear up as much as I can.

Yes, John Penney and Dave Cornell have both retired from the Rare Bear team. This was not really news – because before the races started, both had said this would be their last year. No drama, no screaming matches as the rumor mill would like you to believe. It was handled professionally and with great forethought.

Next year, the Rare Bear will have a new pilot. The front runner for that seat is Stewart Dawson, but nothing official has been announced. Dawson has been listed as the Alternate Pilot for several years and is quite capable of the job. He also attended PRS last year in Rare Bear.

Lots of questions were also running around about Darryl Greenamyer. Darryl did not make it for 2010, but that is because of engine trouble on the race plane which could not be repaired in time to make the races. The team intends to make 2011 – so don’t fret.

As of now, 2011 is looking great. We have new racers being built or modified in nearly every class. All of the Unlimited Gold contenders were ready to race on Sunday, which means they should all be ready for 2011. The Super Sport has another year to make things happen, and I know they will.

Until next month, don’t forget to Fly Low, Fly Fast and Turn Left.

Marilyn Dash
Ruby Red Racing