After questions arose during the Pilot Racing Seminar in June as to whether there would be a future for Unlimited racers at Reno, there is no longer any doubt. With the Unlimited racers the top draw, Reno needed a big name, and it got it, with one of the most storied racers to ply the pylons at the races ever. Strega, the highly modified P-51 that has won the former Unlimited class more times than any other airplane, has been signed up for the new Unlimited and Warbird Class (UWRC), as has Rare Bear, Precious Metal, Argonaut and Dreadnought.
“We are ecstatic to announce that we will have the most recognizable racing planes and pilots in the world and one of the most competitive national championships in the event’s storied history,” said Mike Houghton, president and CEO of the Reno Air Race Association.
Strega will, however, no longer be flown by Steve Hinton Jr., who will instead fly another legendary P-51 — Voodoo. Instead, long time race pilot Matt Jackson will be at Strega's controls. Provided both airplanes remain in flyable condition throughout the rigorous qualifying races, it could prove to be a very exciting final race at the 50th annual Reno Air Races. This year's races will be held from September 11 through 15 at the Reno-Stead Airport in the outskirts of Reno, Nevada.
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