Registration opens for AirVenture Cup Race

The AirVenture Cup Race, which began with 10 aircraft competing on a course from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, to Oshkosh in 1998, is marking its twenty-seventh year. The volunteers who organize the event that leads up to EAA AirVenture expect more than 80 aircraft to participate in 2025 and encourage all interested pilots to apply. That includes you. Applications are available online.

The race begins at 9 a.m. Central time on July 20 and covers a round-robin course that starts and ends in Wausau, Wisconsin. All types of aircraft are welcome, experimental or certified, and previous participants have ranged from Piper Cubs to jets and all-out racing aircraft with composite airframes and screaming, modified engines. Some experimental racers who regularly take part are known for innovative speed modifications, organizers said.

Aircraft and pilots are divided into categories depending on their certification, landing gear configuration, and engine size, with each class awarding first-, second-, and third-place prizes. All race and related activities are weather dependent.

The race concludes a weekend of aviation activities at Wausau Downtown Airport and serves as an unofficial kickoff to AirVenture.

The air race is a timed competition meant to capture the spirit of long-distance races such as the Bendix Trophy and other events from aviation’s golden age. Following the race, most participants fly into AirVenture.

Race organizers urge anyone interested to apply as soon as possible. You can learn more about the race and access the application on the AirVenture Cup Race website.