The Aero Experience: AirVenture Cup Races: Gathering at Mount Vernon and First Race

By Mark Nankivil and Leo Cachat

Mt. Vernon Outland Airport was the host for this year's AirVenture Cup cross country race held on July 28, the opening weekend of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2013. The Aero Experience was there the previous day to capture the drama of the racers gathering on the ramp and visitors checking out these unique aircraft. On Saturday, July 27, a shorter 100 mile race was held in which the participants raced to the tip of Rend Lake and then returned to the airport. The weather was beautiful with highs in the mid to upper 70's, and the sun came out from the clouds to make great lighting for these beautifully painted, colorful airplanes. Not all the aircraft present took part in the race, but the ones who did put on an impressive display as the winds turned gusty before the planes returned to Mt. Vernon Outland Airport to land.

Special thanks to Airport Manager Chris Collins for giving us tremendous access to the field and the EAA for putting on such a great event.

Here is a select list of participants in the 2013 AVC Race and the airplanes they are flying:

Rene Dugas in the #007 Turbine Legend