As is generally the case, there was much excitement this weekend in Reno as the National Championship Air Races celebrated its 53rd year of races around closed pylon courses in the beautiful desert landscape north of the Reno-Stead Airport. However, unlike most years, this year’s greatest thrill did not come from the Unlimited Class.
Video: Hot Stuff Struck from Behind During Air Race Start
Key Takeaways:
- During the 53rd Reno National Championship Air Races, Formula One pilot Thom Richard's plane, "Hot Stuff," was struck from behind by another aircraft on the runway after Richard signaled engine trouble and stopped.
- Richard suffered an injury to his right hand and his plane was damaged, but he remained calm during the incident and expressed his firm intent to continue air racing.
- While classes like Formula One, Sport, and Jet saw strong participation, the Unlimited Class experienced a significant decline in entrants due to the high operating costs and risks associated with these planes.
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