It was a case of one win each in the two race event. Given a head start, the Boeing 777 kept the A1 racer, driven by A1 Team New Zealand's Jonny Reid, at Bay after he had trouble getting initial traction on the damp runway in the first duel. However, a re-match was ordered. Reid nailed the second start and caught up to the jumbo just before it took off.
The event was part of a promotional effort for A1GP’s next race, which will be taking place in Taupo, New Zealand, the weekend after next. This will also be the first race in which the cars will be running on the new ethanol blended fuel, which you can read about by clicking here.
Reader Comments
Thu Jan 17 2008 7:42 PM
Gus says
I wonder if the 777 was full and prepped for an international flight, or empty with minimal fuel. My guess is that there is a big difference between accelrations figures between those conditions.
Also, as pilots, we practice something called short field takeoffs, which involves full power while holding the brakes, and lifting off at a lower speed, then gaining speed before climbing. I'm curious as to whether the pilot here was doing that (doubtful, since it eats a lot more fuel and isn't comfortable for the passengers), or a normal takeoff.
Fri Jan 18 2008 11:23 AM
Nick says
I wouldn't say the race was exactly fair unless it did what Gus suggests (though I highly doubt it).
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