At the presentation of the Red Bull Air Race calendar 2008 there was one thing that everyone was talking about: South African Glenn Dell as a new pilot.
The most spectacular aerobatic flying series in the world, the Red Bull Air Race World Series, is experiencing its fourth season in 2008 – and also a string of refreshing innovations. The first few secrets were revealed during recent weeks; This year, for the first time, a Red Bull Air Race will be held in Spain; the infamously industrial city of Detroit in the USA is receiving host-location status – and for the second time since 2005, Rotterdam, Netherlands, is back on the racing calendar.
Newcomer with 30 years’ experience
For the first time, among the pilots’ dozen 2008, a South African will be competing: Glen Dell, 45 years old and a helicopter pilot trainer, may be a rookie in the field, but is very much used to sitting behind the control stick. The eight-time South African National Aerobatic Champion and 2004 Advanced World Aerobatic Champ has 30 years of flying experience – and adequate respect for the adventure of the Air Race: “In 2008 I want to learn as much as possible; in 2009 to celebrate my first successes.”
New rules = Even more excitement!
This year the World Series will not only develop through the introduction of new faces and locations but also through a new mode of racing. In contrast to before, although the qualifying rounds and finals will be still be held over two days, spectators will now have the opportunity to see all twelve pilots in action on one racing day: In the ‘One Point Round,’ in the ‘Super Eight’ contest and finally in the duel for the podium placings. Points will be given to the nine best-placed pilots of each race.
