P-38 Lightening on approach
One of the historical flight planes, a P-38 "Lightening" banks onto
final approach. Many unique aircraft can be seen at Reno.
At-6s on the Reno Race Course
On the back side of the course, the longest straight line of flight for the
AT-6s, you can see the various turning stages of aircraft as they approach the
pylon. The AT-6 wide to the left will be flying a longer course and will fall
further behind the lead two aircraft.
An AT-6 makes his turn by pylon 4.
When in clear air getting close to the pylon
to lessen the course circle is easy. When many aircraft are together the outside
aircraft must go up and out in order to maintain safety thereby flying a larger
course circle.
AT-6 Race 90 Gene McNeeley
Sponsorship of aircraft helps maintain the sport. Aeroshell is a sponsor
of aircraft in each race category. Here an AT-6 Race number 90 piloted by Gene
McNeeley passes overhead in the landing pattern.
A Yak 3U (originally a Yak 11)
races down the backside of the course.
Even though it is running the smaller Allison engine the Yak itself is a smaller
and lighter plane which keeps it competitive.
P-51 Dago Red comes in for a landing
after qualifying for the unlimited.
Banking for the course
On the far side of the course two planes bank for pylon 4. With hills along
the course, and an up slope at the start finish line, there is no point in the
race where a pilot can fly a straight and level line.