Sep 21, 2012 - Even if you've never attended the National Championship Air Races at Reno, undoubtedly you've seen photos of the 2012 races, the 2011 races and others. As entertaining as the races are, much goes into making the races happen - Racing School, insurance, volunteer staff, and ... The Chase Aircraft. For the last two years Bombardier Lear has generously donated a Lear 45XR, two pilots and crew to help manage the Jet Class racing.

This year Bombardier Lear pilots Rick Rowe and Dennis Simmons shot videos of the Sep 16 Silver and Gold race taxi, takeoff and race start from their unique vantage point above the crowd. There's a lot going on waiting for aircraft to join up, TCAS interrupting because of nearby aircraft, and such, but the actual race start when the jets dive from view is something to behold. Enjoy the videos!

Silver Jet Class - Taxi Out

Silver Jet Class - Take Off

Silver Jet Class - Race Start

Gold Jet Class - Race Start