Not all of the competition at Reno is among the big unlimiteds. There are other ways to go racing as well. From the underpowered, to the undersized, to the latest in low drag high tech composites, there is a race class for every taste. With the exception of the Sport Class, the photos in this section are not of the planes which posted the listed speeds.

Nemesis Qualified: 324.8 mph

Sport Class

The top class for homebuilts could very well be called the Darryl Greenamyer class. His twin turbo intercooled IO-540 Continental is supposed to be putting out 500-600 horsepower. The buzz this year centered on John Sharp's new rule beater, Nemesis. Sadly, John suffered a gear failure and was done early. Greenamyer went on to play cat and mouse with the Thunder Mustang instead.

Race: Gold winner 333.9 mph

Top Qualifier: 238.3 mph

T6

What they lack in speed, they make for with noise. The underpowered AT6s may look dead slow in the air, but the spec class rules have kept these planes fairly close in competition. Even though basically stock, speeds have slowly crept up over the years.

Gold Final: 238.1

Top Qualifier: 255.4 mph

Formula One

Formula One is organized around a specific O-200 four cylinder engine. I believe the extent of engine modifications is somewhat limited, and the aircraft must have a minimum wing area. The racers are lined up on the runway in groups of three and race from a standing start. There are a variety of aircraft types ranging from old Cassutts to custom one of a kinds.

Race: Gold winner 250.1 mph

Top Qualifier: 241.1 mph

Biplane

Comprised mostly of Pitts Specials and a couple true purpose built racers, the biplane class is one of the least expensive. Up at the sharp end of the field a rather rough looking, but very fast machine upped the ante to the tune of about 20 mph this year.