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Reno’s 2022 Air Races Kick Off This Week

The Stihl National Championship Air Races bring the September family back together for a dust-up in the valley.

Julie Boatman
Verified
The Sea Fury Dreadnought will be flown by Joel Swager, who looks to repeat his win in the Unlimited Gold class last year, when he clocked 426.896 mph. [Courtesy: Stihl National Championship Reno Air Races]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Reno Air Racing Association’s Stihl National Championship Air Races are taking place this week, featuring 151 airplanes and 155 pilots competing in various classes at the Reno/Stead Airport.
  • The Unlimited Gold Trophy series experienced a tragic loss with the death of pilot Sherman Smoot during a pre-race test flight, casting a somber note over the competition.
  • Beyond the main races, the event includes the second year of STOL Drag, former Thunderbird pilot Maj. Michael Brewer competing in the Biplane class, military and civilian flight demonstrations, and the National Aviation Heritage Invitational.
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Come September—most every year—kids head back to school and the pilots who wish to test their skills in hot competition return to Reno, Nevada.

The Reno Air Racing Association’s Stihl National Championship Air Races kick off this week, with qualifying rounds beginning today, and official heats beginning Wednesday, September 14, and running through the weekend. The event brings a total of 151 airplanes, 155 pilots, and a complete airshow experience to the skies above and around the Reno/Stead Airport (KRTS).

Julie Boatman

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