The Air Race Classic, June 18th-21st, is an annual all-women cross-country airplane race that has been held since 1929. The race typically covers about 2,400 miles over four days, and features teams of two or three women pilots flying single-engine planes. The race was initially called the Women’s Air Derby and was created by Amelia Earhart and other female pilots to promote women’s aviation and demonstrate the skill and capability of women pilots. The first race began on August 18, 1929, and was won by Louise Thaden and Blanche Noyes.
The Air Race Classic has since become a prestigious aviation competition that draws participants from all over the world. The race typically starts and ends at different airports each year, and the route varies from year to year, with stops at various airports along the way. In addition to promoting women’s aviation and providing a platform for women pilots to showcase their skills, the Air Race Classic also serves as a fundraising event for aviation scholarships and programs. The race is organized by the Air Race Classic, Inc., a non-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting aviation and supporting women in aviation.