The 2014 Air Race Classic Will Be Held June 16–19

Buchanan Field Airport in Concord, California will be the start of this year’s Air Race Classic (ARC) which spans over 2,338 nautical miles. The 2014 Air Race Classic will be held June 16–19. Racers will make ten intermediate stops in four days enroute to New Cumberland, Pennsylvania in the quest for the fastest time.

The race is an annual all­ female­ pilot air race in which pilots race against their own best speed in the small airplane of their choice. Racers will undergo briefings, flight planning, and fly­-by study prior to take off. There are, however, limitations: the aircraft must be “stock” models (no experimental) and have their handicap speed identified with a check pilot.

Many of the pilots race not only for the experience, but compete to refine their flight skills as the route changes each year in order to keep the race challenging.

The Air Race Classic carries on the long tradition of women’s air racing that dates back to 1929. Air racing became popular in the 1920’s, but women pilots were forbidden to race against the men in that era, so the ladies started their own.

The race is extremely unique and attracts competitors from all ages and regions of the world. In 2013, there were pilots from Kosovo, Japan and Italy who joined other US pilots in the ultimate four day air race challenge. Collegiate teams make up nearly 20% of each years racers.
This year’s ARC will have fifty-two teams and over one hundred female pilots compete for the championship title in the transcontinental air race.

FMI: www.facebook.com/AirRaceClassic