Inaugural Air Race Emerges in Nevada

Ely Nevada is about to add some major excitement to its airspace with the inception of the Ely Air Races and Air Show. The inaugural event is set to take place from June 13 to 16 at the Ely Airport (ELY) in eastern Nevada.

The event claims to be the first air race to be added on the West Coast in the past 34 years and it will be the highest elevation air race ever attempted. The field elevation in Ely is 6,258 feet and with summer temperatures the density altitude grows significantly higher.

Formula One air racing has a history that spans more than seven decades. While the pilots and race planes that will participate have not yet been announced, several of the racers from the National Championship Air Races in Reno, Nevada and the Air Race 1 race in Thailand are expected to participate. The tiny race planes battle each other out on an oval pylon course and can reach speeds of close to 300 mph.

In addition to the daily races, which culminate on Saturday, there will be a military and GA aircraft display, a car show, hot air balloon rides, live music and activities with the Steptoe Valley Trap, Skeet and Target club.

The price of admission is $25 for adults, $15 for children and seniors and $50 for families. Weekly passes and pit passes, which allow visitors to get up close to the airplanes and pilots, are also available. RV camping is available on the field for $350 for the duration of the show.