RENO, Nev. (July 20, 2021) – To many the STIHL National Championship Air Races is about history with veteran race pilots returning each year to best their opponents. But for some pilots this is a fresh new way to test their skills. The Reno Air Racing Association’s Pylon Racing Seminar or “Rookie School” recently saw 24 students receive their certification to race this September.
“Seeing new racers discover the love of head-to-head air racing, mastering their skill and doing it all with our incredible veteran instructors makes for a fun week,” said Fred Telling CEO and Chairman of the Reno Air Racing Association. “The excitement for the races is building and we are looking forward to bringing the fans one of the best races and airshows we’ve ever had.”
PRS is required for rookies and open to certified racers to hone their skills. If a certified racer has not participated in PRS or the races in the last three years, they are required to re-certify to be able to race again.
This year’s seminar consisted of six days (two sessions) of intensive classroom instruction from experienced race pilots as well as extensive practice on the course. More than 80 participants attended this year’s Pylon Racing Seminar including students, certified racers returning to practice and instructors.
The 2021 STIHL National Championship Air Races return Sept. 15–19, 221, just 20 minutes north of downtown Reno, Nev. Attendees can witness the fastest motorsport in the world as seven racing classes go head-to-head plus demonstrations by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, F-22 Raptor Demonstration, Tucker’s Air Patrol, Jim Peitz Aerosports, Tony Higa Airshows, the National Aviation Heritage Invitation and more.
Tickets are now on sale. For more information, visit AirRace.org.
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About the National Championship Air Races
The National Championship Air Races are held every September just north of Reno by the Reno Air Racing Association, a 501(c)(3). The event has become an institution for Northern Nevada and aviation enthusiasts from around the world with seven racing classes, a large display of static aircraft and several military and civilian flight demonstrations. Independent economic impact studies show that the event generates as much as $100 million annually for the local economy. For more information on the National Championship Air Races, visit AirRace.org.