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Race Fans Called Upon to Help Save Reno’s Air Races

After 56 years, the air races at the Reno/Stead Airport are threatened as COVID-19 killed 2020 revenues for the event. Pia Bergqvist
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) is seeking $500,000 in donations by year-end to fund the 2021 STIHL National Championship Air Races and re-hire essential staff.
  • The 2020 event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in zero revenue, staff layoffs, and the depletion of reserves despite federal aid and asset sales.
  • The event's financial viability was already challenged by rising operational costs, including a significant $160,000 increase in insurance premiums for 2019, partially a consequence of a tragic 2011 crash.
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The Reno Air Racing Association, which hosts the annual STIHL National Championship Air Races near Reno, Nevada, is sending out a cry for help to save the iconic event. In addition to several race classes, featuring a range of aircraft types from backcountry taildraggers to military speedsters, the event includes airshow performers, STEM education stations, military and vintage aircraft displays, vendors and much more. RARA announced in a press release that it is looking for donations to enable the event to proceed in 2021.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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