Rare Bear at Reno, a sight that will soon become a memory only. (Photo © Damien Defever)
Sadly, this is not a bad joke or an April’s Fool. The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA), the organizer of the National Championship Air Races at Reno-Stead Airport, Nevada, announced on 9 March that the Reno Air Races will no longer take place at the world-renowned Reno-Stead Airport after this year’s edition, from 13 to 17 September 2023.
The races have been held at Reno-Stead in Nevada since 1964, a location that saw tens of thousands of aviation and racing enthusiasts gather from around the world to enjoy the racing and notably the “Unlimited class” of racers which sees Mustangs, Sea Furies and Bearcats battling for the lead.
P-51XR « Precious Metal » powered by a Rolls-Royce Griffon engine from an Avro Shackleton. (Photo © Damien Defever)
These news may come as a surprise to many, but RARA indicate that this was inevitable, citing the region’s significant growth.
Rod Lewis’ Grumman F7F-3P Tigercat “Here Kitty, Kitty” (Photo © Damien Defever)
An alternative venue is being sought so that the National Championship Air Races may continue being held.
Many thanks Damien Defever for his photos of the Reno racers, taken in 2006 and 2010.
The full presse release can be found on the RARA’s website :
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