From September 16–20, 2026, the skies above the Roswell Air Center in New Mexico will thunder to life for the historic National Championship Air Races. While every racing class brings its own flavor of high-octane drama, few pairings highlight the breathtaking diversity of aviation quite like the Jet Class and the Sport Class. One represents the absolute pinnacle of high-speed, military-grade jet tactical racing, while the other showcases the jaw-dropping, cutting-edge boundaries of modern experimental and kit-built performance. We are thrilled to officially unveil the competitor rosters for both of these incredible divisions. Here’s your official look at the pilots and machines ready to push it to the limit this September.
The Jet Class: Pure, Unadulterated Speed on the All-New ‘Mach’ Course!
The Jet Class features sleek, military-style jet trainers flying at speeds well in excess of 500 mph. Pulling heavy G-forces at altitudes below 50 feet around the pylons, these pilots command intense respect. While the 600-mph speed cap remains just below the actual speed of sound, the name ‘Mach’ course perfectly captures the sheer speed, thunderous sound, and dramatic spectacle of jet racing.
The new course is a redesigned track engineered to push qualified pilots of these high-speed machines to their absolute limit. To make this debut even more legendary, the introduction of the Mach course also brings two new heavy-metal MiG 17’s! Spectators will get to witness the incredible Soviet-era airframes flying around the pylons, alongside the widely beloved Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros and L-29 Delfins.
2026 Official Jet Class Lineup:
Bob McCormack – Sacramento, CA | Athena (Aero Vodochody L29C, #1)
Carol Sugars – Ilkeston, Derbyshire, UK | Graham (Aero Vodochody L29, #6)
Jerry “Jive” Kerby – Lake Wales, FL | Ivan (Aero Vodochody L39C, #7)
David Sterling – San Diego, CA | Race 8 (Aero Vodochody L39C, #8)
Scott Gusakov – Milan, MI | Lap Dancer (WSK-PZL MIELEC MIG17/LIM6, #511)
Mark “DeadStick” Davis – Houston, TX | Enigma (Aero Vodochody L39ZA, #911)
Bill Culberson – Mobile, AL | Team Romanov (Mikoyan Gurevich MIG-17, #1713)
The Sport Class: Making an Anticipated Roswell Debut!
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Sport Class, created to highlight the fast-evolving world of high-performance, amateur-built aircraft. After pausing their participation during the relocation transition, the Sport Class is touching down in Roswell this September! To qualify, these aircraft must be kit-built and capable of speeds exceeding 150 mph—though top racers now routinely break the 350+ mph barrier. Featuring highly tuned, sleek kit planes like the Lancair Legacy, Questair Venture, and the specialized Super Glasair, this class represents the perfect marriage of experimental aerospace engineering and sheer piloting grit.
2026 Official Sport Class Lineup:
Tom McNerney – Blue Springs, MO | Too Much (Laminar Consulting Lancair Legacy, #4)
Joe Coraggio – Chandler, AZ | Ramp Rat’s Ride (Lancair Legacy, #6)
Kevin Eldredge “Skids” – Deer Park, WA | Gryphon (Super Glasair SH-3R, #7)
Witness the Ultimate Aviation Spectacle, Get Your Tickets Now!
Whether you live for the strategic, high-speed jet-engine roar on the brand-new Mach course or the astonishing, physics-defying agility of highly-tuned experimental aircraft making their Roswell debut, the 2026 National Championship Air Races promises an experience you will never forget. Alongside seven competitive classes, attendees can enjoy full access to the open pit areas to meet these very pilots, explore our massive STEM zone, and witness world-class military displays.
Tickets are moving fast, and premium grandstand seating is limited. Head over to our official ticket portal today to lock in your Grandstand Seating, Pit Passes, or exclusive hospitality packages.
Don’t wait until the tarmac clears! Secure your official tickets today and join us in Roswell this September!
From September 16–20, 2026, the skies above the Roswell Air Center in New Mexico will thunder alive for the historic National Championship Air Races. While every racing division brings its own flavor of high-octane drama, few pairings highlight the breathtaking diversity of aviation quite like the T-6 Class and the STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) Class. One represents the absolute pinnacle of close-quarters, historic strategic pylon racing, while the other showcases the jaw-dropping, gravity-defying boundaries of modern bush-plane performance. We are thrilled to officially unveil the competitor rosters for both of these incredible divisions. Here’s your official look at the pilots and machines ready to push it to the limit this September.
The T-6 Class: Historic Steel, Equal Power, Extreme Strategy
The T-6 Racing Class features historic World War II-era North American T-6 Texan, SNJ and Harvard trainers. Because the planes possess matched performance capabilities, winning doesn’t come down to mechanical modifications, it comes down to pure tactical skill, precise line selection, and nerves of steel. Racing at speeds exceeding 225 MPH, these heavy, roaring radial warbirds fly separated by mere feet.
2026 Official T-6 Class Lineup:
Ben York III – Mesa, AZ | Dulcinea (SNJ-5, #21) – Pace Plane
Greg Mcneely – Port Orange, FL | Undecided (T6-G, #90)
The STOL Drag Class: Defying Gravity right at the Grandstands
On the opposite end of the spectrum is STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing). Instead of racing around an elevated pylon course 50-250 feet in the air, these specialized planes battle it out low and fast at ground level right in front of the crowd. The objective is deceptively simple but incredibly demanding: take off in the shortest distance possible, fly about 2,000 feet, and land with the absolute minimum ground roll. Watching these heavily modified aircraft leap into the air in under 30 feet and stop on a dime is a masterclass in aerodynamics and low-speed control. It’s rugged and wildly unpredictable.
2026 Official STOL Class Lineup:
RodHewitt – Auburn, CA | Angry Kitten (S7, #11)
David Kerley – Spicewood, TX | GrassHopper (Highlander, #11)
Harry Beaupre – Fallon, NV | Spirit of Louis (Kitfox IV-1200, #27)
Eddie Sanches – Willis, TX | Devil Girl II (Highlander, #48)
Tony Sanches – Montgomery, TX | God Bless John Wayne (Just Aircraft, #75)
Brian Moore – Lancaster, CA | Honey Badger (RANS S7, #78)
Doug Tolbert – Idaho Falls, ID | Red Fox (Model 4 Classic, #96)
John McCardle – Omaha, NE | Bird Dawg (BearHawk 5, #10)
Ronnie Saner – Hayden, ID | Geraldine (Badlands Traveler, #14)
Witness the Ultimate Aviation Spectacle, Get Your Tickets Now!
Whether you live for the strategic, radial-engine roar of the heavy T-6 Class or the astonishing, physics-defying agility of STOL planes, the 2026 National Championship Air Races promises an experience you will never forget. Alongside seven competitive classes, attendees can enjoy full access to the open pit areas to meet these very pilots, explore our massive STEM zone, and witness world-class military displays.
Tickets are moving fast, and premium grandstand seating is limited. Head over to our official ticket portal to lock in your Grandstand Seating, Pit Passes, or exclusive hospitality packages.
Don’t wait until the tarmac clears! Secure your official tickets today and join us in Roswell this September!
The countdown is officially on. From September 16–20, 2026, the skies over the Roswell Air Center in New Mexico will ignite for the National Championship Air Races. We are thrilled to officially unveil the competitor rosters for two of our most legendary divisions: the Biplane Class and the Formula 1 Class.
The Biplane Class: Agility and Finesse at 200 MPH
Don’t let the classic, nostalgic double-wings fool you. The Biplane Class is a masterclass in modern aerobatic engineering and pilot reflexes. Racing at speeds up to 200 MPH on our tightest pylon course, these small, highly maneuverable aircraft require absolute concentration. Many pilots consider these the most challenging and physically demanding machines to fly in the entire aviation world.
This year’s roster features an incredible lineup dominated by variations of the famous, ultra-agile Pitts Special.
2026 Biplane Class Roster:
Christopher Johnson – Tulsa, OK | Lady Luna (PITTS, #918)
Michael Langston – Seattle, WA | Misfit (LHN, #8)
Jeffrey Lo – San Jose, CA | Miss Dianne (PITTS S1, #6)
Thomas Marden – Erwinna, PA | Second Hand (Pitts S1C, #66)
Andrew McVicker – Erwinna, PA | Yellow Jersey (S-1, #17)
Justin Phillipson – Vacaville, CA | Miss Gianna (Pitts LR1, #13)
Scott Prewitt – Yuma, AZ | Flip Flop (S1-C, #314)
Suzanne Richmond Damgaa – North Hills, CA | Gremlin Special (Pitts S1, #1)
Joshua Saddlemire | Lake Arrowhead, CA | Red Zeppelin (PITTS S1-C, #831)
Michael Smith – Grass Valley, CA | Misty 38 (Pitts S1S, #38)
Tommy Suell – Las Vegas, NV | Shake N Bake (Van Winson S-1C, #25)
The Formula 1 Class: Pure Pilot Skill at 250 MPH
If you want to see a race determined strictly by tactical strategy and aerodynamic precision, look no further than Formula 1. Operating under strict rules, every single plane in this class must be powered by an identical 100-horsepower Continental O-200 engine (the exact same engine found in a standard Cessna 150).
However, because these custom-built, lightweight racers are stripped down to the absolute minimum and engineered with extreme sleekness, they fly up to 250 MPH! It is a true test of the individual pilot’s skill around the course, and passing maneuvers happen constantly. This year’s grid features a massive contingent of the famous Cassutt Sport Racers alongside an international roster.
2026 Formula 1 Class Roster:
Dominic Cacolici – St. Petersburg, FL | Sky Addict (Cassutt Sport Racer, #72)
Eric Dienst – Maple Park, IL | Deja Vu (Experimental, #85)
Chet Harris – Anchorage, AK | Pistachio (Cassutt, #68)
Scott Holmes – Edmonton, Canada | Outlaw (Cassutt, #9)
Drew Keenan – Chico, CA | Sleeper (Cassut III, #81)
Andrew Mack – Tehachapi, CA | Cheap Thrills (Cassutt 3M, #82)
Mark McIntyre – Saint John, NB, Canada | Tantrum 2.0 (M-Cassutt-A, #10)
Justin Phillipson – Vacaville, CA | No Strings Attached (Shoestring, #79)
Houston Pye – Chehalis, WA | Monkey Ninja (IIIM, #39)
Carl Robinson – Longview, TX | Heatstroke (Cassutt, #57)
Pushkraj Wagh – Mumbai, India | ANNIE (CASSUTT 3 M, #17)
Joshua Watson – Wilton | Fraed Naught (DG-2, #31)
Trent Woodworth – Spring Valley, WI | Feisty (CASSUTT, #52)
Grab Your Seat for the World’s Fastest Motorsport!
From the tight, tactical flying of Formula 1 to the action of the Biplanes, you won’t want to miss a single second of the action. Beyond the racing, your ticket gives you access to the open pit areas to meet these very pilots, explore our massive STEM zone, and experience five days of unforgettable aviation culture.
Tickets are selling fast! Head over to our official ticket portal now to secure your Reserved Grandstand seating, Pit Passes, or exclusive Chairman’s Club hospitality packages.
Don’t wait…secure your official tickets today and join us in Roswell this September!
The wait is officially over, race fans! We’ve released the official lineup of pilots and planes for the second annual National Championship Air Races (NCAR) at the Roswell Air Center (ROW). Buckle up for September 2026 because we’re about to make history. For the first time ever in Roswell, we are flying with a completely full house.
The September Family is Back Together
We are absolutely thrilled to welcome back the Sport and Unlimited classes, bringing our field to a spectacular, wide-open roster of all seven race classes. As RARA CEO Fred Telling put it:
“We’re ecstatic to announce our September Family is whole once again at the National Championship Air Races. We’ve had many discussions with all classes so we would be able to achieve a full field this year and it’s come to fruition. Now, first-time attendees and longtime race fans will be able to witness the complete roster of classes race in Roswell.”
A Truly Global Grid
The star-studded 2026 lineup brings together an extraordinary field of aviation talent, including returning 2025 champions Josh Watson (Formula One), Tom Marden (Biplane), Chris LeFave (T-6), Bob McCormack (Jet) and Eddie Sanches (STOL – 2nd place). The return of the Unlimited and Sport classes adds additional excitement, with competitors Steven Hinton, Vicky Benzing, Brent Hisey, Dennis Sanders, Tom McNerney, Conrad Huffstutler and more joining the action. Nearly 90 elite pilots from across the United States and around the globe, from Australia and Switzerland to Wyoming and California, will converge in Roswell to compete in one of aviation’s most thrilling spectacles.
More Than Just Racing: An Unforgettable Weekend
While the racing is the main event, the excitement doesn’t stop at the grandstands. The 2026 event is packed with world-class entertainment and attractions for the whole family, including:
Jaw-dropping, high-speed aerial choreography by the world-renowned USAF Thunderbirds.
Tickets are selling fast, but there is still time to secure your spot in the stands. Whether you want a single-day pass to catch the action, a weeklong pass to experience every heat, or a premium VIP package for the ultimate comfort, we have options to fit every fan and budget.
Pro-Tip on Lodging: Rooms right in Roswell are limited. However, hotel and short-term rental options are available in surrounding towns like Artesia, Ruidoso, Alamogordo, and Portales. If you want the ultimate, hassle-free race experience, we highly recommend checking out our expanded on-site RV camping. It’s the easiest way to stay right by the action at ROW while enjoying plenty of space and a great community of fellow fans.
Some moments are simply too incredible to experience just once.
From the thunder of aircraft racing just feet above the desert floor to unforgettable airshow performances, passionate fans, and the breathtaking landscapes of southeastern New Mexico, the inaugural National Championship Air Races in Roswell created memories that will last a lifetime.
Now, thanks to our Diamond Sponsor, New Mexico True, you can experience it all over again.
The beautifully produced film captures the speed, excitement, community, and spirit that made our first year in Roswell such a historic success. Whether you attended the races or are planning your first visit this September, this video showcases why the National Championship Air Races remain one of the most exciting aviation events in the world.
More Than a Sponsor, They are a True Partner
We are incredibly grateful for the support of New Mexico True, whose partnership has helped welcome the National Championship Air Races to its new home in Roswell.
As New Mexico’s official tourism brand, New Mexico True celebrates everything that makes the Land of Enchantment extraordinary, from its stunning landscapes and rich aviation history to its vibrant culture, outdoor adventures, incredible cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. Their mission is to inspire travelers to discover the authentic New Mexico, and the National Championship Air Races are proud to be part of that story.
Their commitment extends far beyond sponsorship. Together, we’re introducing aviation enthusiasts from around the world to everything New Mexico has to offer while showcasing Roswell as the new home of the world’s fastest motorsport.
Looking Ahead to 2026
If last year was any indication, this September promises to be even bigger.
The National Championship Air Races return to Roswell, New Mexico, September 16-20, 2026, bringing back seven thrilling race classes, world-class airshow performers, interactive STEM experiences, aircraft displays, family-friendly attractions, and the unmatched excitement of pylon racing at speeds exceeding 500 mph. Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast or looking for an unforgettable family adventure, now is the perfect time to start planning your trip.
Watch the video, share it with your friends, and get ready to experience The Fastest Show on Earth once again.
A sincere thank you to New Mexico True for helping us tell the story of this incredible event and for continuing to support the future of air racing in the Land of Enchantment.
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