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Buchanan Field Airport in Concord, Calif. 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 to 19. Racers will zoom through ten intermediate stops in four days enroute New Cumberland, Pa. 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 per cent of each years racers.
