Since none of the aeronautical disciplines are currently represented at the Olympic Games, the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), has decided to start its own World Air Games.
The first World Air Games will take place in September 1997, in Turkey, and will showcase every facet of the aeronautical sports: Aerobatics, Soaring, Helicopter Precision Flying, Para-gliding and Hang-gliding, Ultralights, Hot Air Balloons, Skydiving, Remote Controlled Model Aircraft.
The Long Distance event of these World Air Games will be a Race open to single and multi engine piston aircraft, turboprops and light jets starting in Reykjavik (Iceland) and reaching Antalya (Turkey) in 12 days after several stop-overs in Strasbourg (France), Seville (Spain), Rome (Italy, Jerusalem (Israel), Amman (Jordan), Trabzon and Adana (Turkey).
The aircraft will be handicapped against their maximum cruising speed. The winners will be awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals. The entry fees for an aircraft with a crew of 2 are US$ 11,400. If you want to represent your country, send US$100 for a pre-registration package to Marc Mosier, P. 0. Box 1050, Troy, VA 22974, Tel: 804/589-2274.