RENO, Nev. (October 14, 2019) —Longtime Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aviation Event Specialist, Sue Gardner, has been elected to the Reno Air Racing Association board of directors. Gardner served as the FAA’s national aviation events specialist from 2000 to 2005, and again from 2013 to her retirement in 2018. Over the years, she worked diligently to improve the FAA’s overall role in aviation events.

“Sue has been essential in helping us create a thriving and safe event for all of our pilots, fans and volunteers,” said Fred Telling, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Reno Air Racing Association. “We are delighted to officially add her to our team and know she will be an incredible asset to the Reno Air Racing Association and the future of the STIHL National Championship Air Races.”

During her time with the FAA, Gardner spearheaded many initiatives to improve the FAA’s management of aviation events, including standardizing and updating the policy to accredit the Reno Air Racing Association and the Red Bull Air Races, as well as coordinating environmental policy pertaining to aerobatic practice areas.

Gardner received the Reno Air Racing Association’s 2019 Chairman’s Award.

The 2020 STIHL National Championship Air Races return Sept. 16–20 just 20 minutes north of downtown Reno. Attendees can witness the fastest motorsport in the world as seven racing classes go head-to-head, plus aerobatic demonstrations and one-of-a-kind static displays. For more information, visit AirRace.org.

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About the STIHL National Championship Air Races:
The STIHL 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 $91.7 million annually for the local economy. For more information on the STIHL National Championship Air Races, to obtain media credentials, volunteer, be a vendor or purchase tickets visit AirRace.org.