Production Aircraft Classes Added

The EAA AirVenture Cup Race will feature a new starting point in 2013, plus several new aircraft classes that will allow even more aviators participate in this fun competition prior to the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

This year’s course will start at Mount Vernon Airport (KMVN) in Illinois, include two turn points, and end at Waupaca Municipal Airport (PCZ) about 30 miles northwest of Oshkosh. Officials are also adding several new classes of aircraft to the race, including production-built aircraft, vintage airplanes, and warbirds. Race applications will be available on the organization’s website starting Monday, May 13 and will be due no later than July 1.

The EAA AirVenture Cup Race provides builders and pilots an opportunity to race their aircraft in a safe and fun environment, all while promoting aviation in and over the communities where the races are held. Officials with the Mount Vernon airport expressed interest in hosting the race earlier this year. The airport is home to the annual Midwest LSA Expo and is well-equipped to serve the needs of the race staff and pilots.

The AirVenture Cup Race is a timed race where participants are competing against the clock. For 2013, each aircraft’s time will be recorded beginning on its takeoff from the Mount Vernon Airport, as well as at each turn point. To finish the race, each aircraft will fly over the Waupaca Municipal Airport to obtain their finish time before circling to land. Each class has a first, second and third place awards.

In addition, the race staff is currently seeking out sponsors to support this year’s race. 2013 marks the race’s 16th year, with past flying courses that ranged anywhere from 400 miles to 750 miles cross country towards Oshkosh, WI in advance of EAA AirVenture. The first race in 1998 started in Kitty Hawk, NC, with 10 aircraft. Several of them have participated in the EAA AirVenture Cup Race ever since.

In 2012, the race started in Mitchell, SD, with more than 50 aircraft participating. On the day before last year’s race, AVC volunteers and race participants partnered with the Mitchell airport to host an airport open house, during which over 250 Young Eagle rides were given.

FMI: www.airventurecuprace.com