Society of Air Racing Historians

The Society was formed in late 1984 by a small group of dedicated air racing enthusiasts who wanted to pool their efforts and knowledge with others having the same love of this great aviation sport. The first Air Racing History Symposium was held in Cleveland, Ohio, in May of 1985, and the Society became an official association shortly thereafter.

In 1903 the Wright Brothers introduced the world to powered flight; however they did little to improve their invention. The French and other European Countries had a great interest in the development of flying machines and were making a lot of progress improving them. In 1909 the French decided to hold the first ever air race. This was to be an International event; pilots from England, Germany, Italy and the United States were invited. An American newspaperman living in France offered the Gordon Bennett trophy. There would be speed events, altitude, distance and passenger carrying events. All speed events would race against the clock.

The Society's mission is to preserve the complete and accurate records of air races, race pilots and race planes by working together and combining the knowledge of many people. The Society also exists to bring together all those men, women, and youth who have a serious interest in the history and sport of pylon and long-distance air racing. A major goal of all Society activities is to bring together people of all ages to share their mutual interest and knowledge of air racing.

The Society's bi-monthly electronic newsletter, e-Golden Pylons, averages over 70 pages per issue. Each newsletter contains a wide range of eras and a broad variety of air racing articles covering race planes, pilot, events, restoration and replica projects, book and DVD reviews, model building and outstanding rare photographs.