A pilot in an experimental sport class plane crashed at about 3:30 p.m. today. He died in the crash about an hour ago. (this will post on my blog in 3 hours after the family has been notified) The crash happened during a Sport Class qualifying heat. The plane went down on the race course near the area "High G Ridge." Flying was cancelled for the rest of the day. As of now, qualifying heats are scheduled to resume at 8 a.m. on tomorrow.
When you're flying fast, flying low and banking left, there is always the dance that situational awareness or a mechanical failure will cause you to auger into the ground - or into the stands or pits where other aircraft are staging.
Three years ago, a P-51 Mustang augered into the stands, killing a large number of fans. There is no guarantee that you'll be safe while watching the world's fastest motor sport.
