"Our mission is to perpetuate the most unique air racing event and aviation experience in the world by combining the world's fastest motor sport with spectacular military and civilian air entertainment." That's how the Reno Air Races Association (RARA) describes its annual event. The 55th edition of the Reno National Championship Air Races was held at Reno-Stead Airport, Nevada, in September. More than 120 aircraft participated in six categories: Biplane, Formula One, Sport, Unlimited (any piston-powered aeroplane) and Jet. There is a separate category just for the North American T-6 Texan (and the SNJ US Navy equivalent), due to the large number of pilots flying them who want to take part. All race aircraft had to arrive by noon on Saturday September 8. Two days later, there was a practice session with qualification flying taking place from that day to the morning of the 12th. Racing then started in the afternoon and ended on September 16. What is generally considered the main event - the Unlimited Gold race - took place on the afternoon of the last day.
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