Q: What kind of race is this? I do not fly pylons and am not comfortable flying close to other planes.
A: It is a timed cross-country race. There are no pylons, and race aircraft takeoff individually in fastest to slowest order to fly the race course. A wide range of aircraft and speeds participate in assigned classes.
Q: I am proud of my C-172 and it is as fast as any other C-172, but it is not known as a race plane. How can I compete?
A: You will be put in a class of airplanes with similar airframes and horsepowers, there may even be another C-172 you can compete with. Perhaps you could challenge another C-172 owner to register.
Q: What pilot qualifications are required? IFR? Commercial?
A: This is a Day-VFR race by private pilots. No Instrument nor Commercial Rating is required. Racers are anywhere from from Sport to ATP (even a retired Astronaut). Student pilots, please contact Race Staff for guidance.
Q: What is required of my airplane?
A: Your airplane must be legal to fly Day-VFR, equipped and current for all inspections and tests required for part 91 operation including a radio and transponder (for safety). No instrument capabilities nor race-specific equipment is required.
Q: Has the race ever been delayed or cancelled because of weather?
A: In the race history, there have been multiple delays. In 2016, the race was held at a turn point due to weather at the finish line. The racers landed, re-briefed, and when weather cleared the race resumed to the finish line.
Q: I worry about the bigger and faster planes flying around me. How do I stay safe?
A: Safety is the highest priority of the race. The classes of aircraft are started from the fastest to slowest to minimize overtaking. The required pre-race briefing includes overtaking procedures. Pilots communicate on a dedicated en-route frequency.
Q: How high do we need to fly? I do not have oxygen available.
A: Choice of altitudes is up to the pilot, based upon wind and weather. FAA VFR regulations are in force for all aircraft. Most classes fly within a similar altitude range, but it is not required. Minimum altitude is per FAA Minimum Safe Altitude regulations.
Q: How do we handle MOA’s, Restricted and Prohibited Airspace?
A: The Course is laid out to avoid restricted and prohibited areas. NOTAMS are issued for the race, and the controlling agencies as well as users of MOAs are aware of our race. The course is also reviewed and approved by the FAA.
Q: What if I have mechanical difficulties before or during the race?
A: There is limited assistance from our volunteer mechanic before and during the race. A race frequency will be monitored during the race if a diversion or forced landing is required. Volunteers and/or other race participants will track and follow-up on any aircraft requiring assistance. Pilots may elect to land at designated course airports for any reason with no time penalty but must cross the finish line before the race ends.
Q: Why is the Finish Line not in Oshkosh?
A: In its early history, it was, but growing participation and greater levels of congestion and concerns about safety at AirVenture caused it to be moved many years ago. Most participants go on to Oshkosh following the race, but individually and following published arrival procedures.
Q: I just got a new paint job. How can I show this off at AirVenture?
A: All participants are eligible (but not required) to park on the show line near the AirVenture Cup booth. Sorry but this is a no-camping area. Your aircraft will be photographed often.
Q: Have there ever been any accidents or fatalities associated with this race?
A: We have a 100% safety record in all our years racing. There have been no accidents or incidents while participating in AirVenture Cup activities.
Q: How soon do I need to sign-up?
A: Sign-up is now underway. The deadline for application paperwork is June 1 of the race year.
Q: After I register, what do I need to do besides “show up”?
A: Following registration, you will receive an email with a PDF document package. This needs to be signed and sent to EAA, specific directions will be sent in the email. Race numbers will be assigned and need to be affixed to your A/C of a certain size and location. If you have any specific request, you can forward for consideration by race officials.
Q: What do I need for the race?
A: You will need to show your pilot certificate and medical qualification. In addition, you will need to present your logbook entries showing the airplane is in annual/condition inspection and all required checks (Pitot static, transponder, altimeter, AD compliance, and ELT) must be current at time of race.
Q: Can I bring a passenger?
A: Yes! Many racers choose to fly with a friend, spouse, etc. The competitive spirit is fun to share. A co-pilot (future racer?) can be a great assistant navigating, working radios, and more. All flying participants must be registered, but passengers do not need pilot qualifications.
Q: What if I am unable to participate after I register?
A: We have a 100% refund policy if you cannot make it to the race for any reason. We do this because we don’t want pilots forcing bad weather or mechanical decisions to make it to the starting line of the race since they have already paid. Refunds are available until check-in at the starting line upon your arrival at the starting line.