Race Articles

Article by Robin Spencer-Scarr, Pictures by Dirk de Vos & Chris Breet

Race 81 – Quinton Warne and Lloyd McKayThe morning was crisp, clear and freezing cold. The nervous energy on the Klerksdorp Airfield could be felt miles away as the sound of more than 100 aero engines combined with the smell of burning Avgas heralded the arrival of the contestants on their way to do battle in the skies of the North West Province.

2006 Bank President's Trophy Air Race

Held at Tempe, Bloemfontein - 25 to 27 May 2006

Competition Director Kassie Kasselman at the Thursday evening briefing"The Most Prestigious Aviation Event in South Africa" and "The Largest Air Race in the World". These are some of the words used to describe the President's Trophy Air Race. The 2006 Race did not disappoint.

This year showed a record entry of 110 aircraft, the largest ever. In fact this number will probably not be exceeded without a change to the format of the race as there is a limit of the number of aircraft that can safely land on an airfield over the short period of time as is required on day 2 of the Race.

Participant Stories posted on Avcom

Race 35

Grumpy & I got away rather late on thursday morning, firstly due to me having worked until 3:30 the previous evening and my lack of proper preparation and leaving the aerie keys at home. We had a lekker flight to Klerksdorp and landed uneventfully and found our parking place very easily.

I did my test flight much later than booked due to logistical problems, but was perfectly comfy with that. It is hard to imagine how big a task it is to herd 110 prima donnas, nuff said.

2005 Imperial Bank President's Trophy Air Race

2005 Imperial Bank President's Trophy Air Race

How to win the Stayers Trophy