Nor Cal Classic 2025 Event Program
Welcome
Welcome to the 2025 Nor Cal Classic Aerobatic Contest and Tracy Airport Family Fun Day.
This weekend you get to to experience two special events right here in Tracy California.
First is the Airport Family Day sponsored by the City of Tracy and the Tracy Airport. This event is a free public event that features entertainment, vendors and food trucks for the benefit of the community. As an added bonus, IAC 38 is hosting their regional aerobatic contest. Unlike an airshow, an aerobatic contests take pilots and challenges them to compete against others in one of five categories for top honors.
We thank you for coming and we hope you find this information useful and informative.
What is an Aerobatic Contest?
An aerobatic contest is a competition where pilots demonstrate their skill and precision by performing complex, choreographed maneuvers in the air, judged by a panel of experts on technical execution and overall presentation.
- High-precision aerial events: Aerobatic competitions are a form of air sports where pilots showcase their control and coordination over their aircraft.
- Choreographed stunts: Pilots perform a series of maneuvers like loops, rolls, spins, and other acrobatic figures within a defined airspace called the "box".
- Judged performance: A panel of judges evaluates the pilots' performance based on factors like precision, timing, and creativity.
- Categories: Competitions often feature different categories based on skill level, ranging from beginner to advanced.
- Specialized aircraft: Pilots use specially designed aircraft that are lightweight, powerful, and highly maneuverable.
Greetings from IAC 38 President, Dave Watson
Hello and thank you for coming! We are so glad you chose to come support us. There is a lot to know and we will use this section to identify a number of safety considerations and rules. As mentioned earlier, this is NOT an airshow. As neat as these airplanes are and desire to get up and close with them, due to various rules, we cannot allow access to the tarmac or "ramp" area to the general public.
The public is encouraged to observe from the American Legion Airport Park.
Access to the ramp area is restricted for safety. These airplanes have poor visibility on the ground and a spinning propeller is deadly. You can observe aircraft taxiing in to fuel along the fence.
Parking is permitted in designated areas. The parking lot East of the Airport Park is acceptable for parking; however, you cannot sit in the trunk of your car and spectate from there as it is considered too close to the aerobatic area.
Spectators must remain on the west side of the short height fence that runs parallel between the parking lot and the American Legion Airport Park. If you are in this area loitering or sitting, you will be asked to move or to leave.
We appreciate your assistance in keeping this event clean and safe!
Greetings from Airport Manager Paula Jessup
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Competition Aerobatics
The popular characterization for this kind of flying is “stunt flying.” Pilots who engage in this activity are sometimes thought to be crazy daredevils. This romantic and somewhat sensational view is common in the media because it is exciting. It sells advertising and gets attention. The reality is very different. The people competing at the 2025 Nor Cal Classic to the International Aerobatics Club (www.iac.org), an organization of pilots who work to improve their skills and perfect the accurate performance of aerobatics figures and routines to exacting standards. The contestants here will be graded by judges, much like the figure-skating contests popular in the Winter Olympic Games. The pilots flying here are precise, careful individuals who take pride in the attention they give to the safe flying and maintenance of their airplanes. Aerobatics is a physically and mentally challenging sport that takes years to learn and a lifetime to master. World class pilots start with some natural talent, then dedicate thousands of hours in the air and more on the ground to train to be the very best. As with the best baseball and football players, many desire the goal and few attain it. Unlike baseball and football players, the financial rewards are few. The primary reward is more like that of Olympic class athletes. It is the pleasure of having succeeded in creating a physical performance that is highly demanding, difficult, and sometimes beautiful to watch.
Spectator Schedule
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Practice flights throughout the day.
This day is site prep & set up for contest organizers. Some practice & training flights will commence from around noon through dusk.
Thursday May 29, 2025
- Registration & Tech Inspection & Practice
This day is primarily aircraft and pilot arrivals, registration, technical and safety inspections for pilots and aircraft and practice flights for most pilots.
Friday May 30, 2025
- 7:00 Mandatory pilot briefing.
- 8:30 First aircraft in the air.
- Contest flights: Known & Free flights until dusk.
Saturday, May 31, 20255
- 7:00 Mandatory pilot briefing.
- 8:30 First aircraft in the air.
- 9:30AM-3PM Tracy Airport Family Fun Day.
- Contest flights: Unknown flights until all flights completed.
- At the conclusion of all competitors having flown all their flights:
(Target time 3:00PM)
- 4 Minute Freestyle ( Airshow style unlimited flights with smoke flown to music)
- Demonstration By Sukhoi West Aerobatic Team
- 5:00 PM - Awards banquet Gala @ Patriots Jet Team Hangar 760 Osprey Ct Byron, CA (Dinner @ 7:00PM)
Sunday, June 1, 2025
ALL DAY - Aircraft Departures
Platinum Sponsors
Skyview Aviation at Tracy Municipal Airport is one the nations best flight academies. Learning to fly has never been easier. From maintenance, to training and everything in-between, Skyview Aviation and their team are ready to help you out! Stop by their flight academy office this weekend and say hello!
General Info
Announcer
Our announcer this year is Juan Browne from the "Blancolirio" You Tube channel. Check out his stuff here!:https://www.youtube.com/@blancolirio
He will be walking around the ramp and park offering commentary and educating spectators about all things aviation and aerobatics.
Vendors
Various vendors are sponsored by the City of Tracy Airports Dept
Food Trucks
Various food trucks are sponsored by the City of Tracy Airports Dept
Viewing Area
It is important to note that you cannot observe or loiter in the parking area. This area is considered a safety buffer zone. You are allowed to park in this area but must quickly move to the park and observe from there. Security and police are patrolling the area.
We have provided special aircraft to display along the fence for your enjoyment. Pilots for these airplanes that are not competing will be around to talk to you about their airplanes.
Check out the maps area here:
Prohibited Areas
It is important to note that you cannot observe or loiter in the parking lot area, nor can you park along Tracy Blvd. This area is considered a safety buffer zone. You are allowed to park in the parkin lot area but must quickly move to the park and observe from there. Security and police are patrolling the area.
The ramp area is also a prohibited area. Unfortunately it is not safe to allow ramp access. In special circumstances, authorized personal may guide small groups for tours.
Check out the maps section here:
Merchandise
We are not offering official merchandise for sale this year. See the IAC38 booth for info and any merchandise we may have to offer.
Aerobatic Figures
Straight Line
All figures begin and conclude with a horizontal line.
Loop
The competitor must fly a perfect circle in the sky regardless of wind conditions. Judges will deduct for variations in the radius of the loop and for changes in roll or in heading.
Roll
The Slow Roll requires that the aircraft roll without changing its flight path. Judges will deduct points if the aircraft changes direction in the roll, pitches up, or down, or changes rate of roll during the maneuver.
Snap Roll
A Snap Rollis a very fast roll caused by rapid change in pitch and yaw, not by the ailerons as in a slow roll. Watch to see the nose move up abruptly just before the rotation begins.
Cuban Eight
Two Half Cuban Eights can be combined to form a Cuban Eight or Lay-down Eight. In this figure in competition the two looping parts have to be flown at the same altitude with the same radius. The exit has to be at the same altitude as the entrance to the figure.
Immelmann
An Immelmann is a half loop up with a half roll on top. This maneuver is difficult for the lower performance aircraft because of the slow airspeed at the top of the half roll.
Spin
A spin is found in many variables from a full 360 rotation to two full turns with stops at 90 heading intervals. This depiction is one full 30 rotation. The judges must see the aircraft first stall, followed by autorotation of the aircraft and stopping on the correct heading.
Hammerhead
A hammerhead or stall turn is where the competitor flies their airplane vertical up until the aircraft stalls, the nose of the airplane falling like a falling hammer.
Humpty Bump
A humpty bump, like this one shown depicts a pilot to fly a vertical up line, with a half loop element at the top, followed by a vertical downline. The looping portion must begin and finish at the same altitude.
Avalanche
Rolling Turn
This is a loop with a full snap roll on the top as depicted by the triangle. Often called an avalanche, this figure has the pilot perform the horizontal snap roll with curvature of the loop.
Turn
Rolling Turn
Rolling Turn
The competition turn requires the pilot to roll on heading to a bank of at least sixty degrees, immediately begin a constant rate change of heading without climbing or descending, stop after 90, 180, 270, or 360 degrees, then roll on heading to level flight. Judges deduct for inadequate bank, changes in rate of turn, climbing or descending, and finishing off-heading.
Rolling Turn
Rolling Turn
Rolling Turn
A Rolling Turn will have one or more rolls integrated with the turn. The rolls may be inside, in the same direction of the turn; outside, in the opposite direction of the turn; or alternating inside and outside. The rate of turn and the rate of roll must be constant. Both the turn and the rolls must end at the same time after 90, 180, 270, or 360 degrees of heading change.
Categories
Categories
Primary:
The primary sequence is composed of six simple figures. All pilots fly the same sequence three times. This is considered the entry level category.
Sportsman:
All sportsman pilots are required to fly the known compulsory sequence. Most pilots fly the known sequence on all three flights however sportsman pilots have the option of flying a free sequence for their second and third flights.
Intermediate:
In addition to a more complex known compulsory, intermediate pilots are also required to fly an unknown compulsory and a free program of their own design. This means each flight is a different sequence.
Advanced:
The advanced pilot must fly and even more complex and known and unknown compulsory as well as a free program.
Unlimited:
Unlimited pilot flies the most difficult and complex figures of all competition pilots. They must fly an extremely high performance airplane capable of flying required figures. In addition to the known, unknown and free programs, unlimited pilots can choose to perform the
" four minute freestyle". Unlimited is the highest ranked category and only few pilots ever reach the unlimited level.
Four Minute Free:
The four minute freestyle is flown only by unlimited pilots and in some rare occasions advanced pilots if they hold a specific FAA altitude waiver. See the article later in this program about the four Minute freestyle.
Judging Criteria
Judging Criteria
1. The five judges (you'll see them sitting in deck chairs and under blue canopies along Tracy Blvd inside the airport fence), use established criteria to score the figures flown by each competitor. Spectators can become more involved by using the same criteria to judge each pilot's performance.
2. The judging criteria for the different figures are as follows:
A figure can be a combination of loops, lines, rolls and a spin. Each figure is graded in its entirety.
3. All figures must start and end either parallel to or perpendicular to the edge of the box. A figure must start from a level flight attitude and end in a level flight attitude. There must be a straight line between each figure and that line must be flown at a constant altitude above ground.
4. Loops must be round from the judges perspective.
During up and down lines, the airplane's attitude must be 45° or 90°.
Wings must be parallel to the horizon. The airplane's path will be affected by wind and therefore is not judged.
5. Level turns must remain at a constant height above the ground and at a constant bank angle. Rolls on a vertical and 45° up or down line.
Gold Sponsors
Types of Aerobatic Aircraft
Extra 300 /330
Extra 300 /330
Extra 300 /330
The Extra 300 and 330 are world-renowned German-built aerobatic aircraft, prized for their exceptional agility, high roll rates, and precision handling. With composite construction and powerful Lycoming engines, they dominate international competition and thrill airshow crowds with aggressive, high-energy maneuvers.
MX S / MX 2
Extra 300 /330
Extra 300 /330
Built from advanced carbon fiber composites, the MXS (single-seat) and MX2 (two-seat) are among the most modern and agile aerobatic aircraft flying today. With lightning-fast roll rates and exceptional thrust-to-weight ratios, these aircraft are capable of the most demanding freestyle routines.
Edge 540
Extra 300 /330
GB-1 Gamebird
The Edge 540 is a high-performance aerobatic monoplane designed for extreme precision and agility. With its lightweight composite construction and powerful Lycoming engine, the Edge delivers blistering roll rates and aggressive vertical performance, making it a favorite in freestyle competitions and the Red Bull Air Race. Made in much smaller numbers, the Edge 540 is similar to an Extra 300 or MXS but not nearly as common.
GB-1 Gamebird
Cessna 150/152 Aerobat
GB-1 Gamebird
The GB1 Gamebird is a modern, all-composite aerobatic aircraft built in the USA with cutting-edge technology and British design roots. Offering two-seat versatility without compromising performance, it delivers precise handling and unlimited-category capability, perfect for both training and high-energy airshow routines.
The new machine has only been around a few years and is just now starting to be seen in regular aerobatic competitions.
Super Decathlon
Cessna 150/152 Aerobat
Cessna 150/152 Aerobat
The American Champion Super Decathlon is a capable aerobatic trainer and bush-style taildragger. Known for its rugged build and docile handling, it performs loops, rolls, and spins with ease, offering an excellent introduction to aerobatic flight. Ranging from 150-200 horse power, the Super Decathlon is often a big presence at IAC regional contests.
Cessna 150/152 Aerobat
Cessna 150/152 Aerobat
Cessna 150/152 Aerobat
A familiar trainer with a twist, the Aerobat version of the Cessna 150/152 brings mild aerobatic capabilities to a humble, dependable airframe. Capable of loops, rolls, and spins, it's a favorite for introductory aerobatic training and grassroots displays.
Pitts Special
Great Lake 2T-1A
Great Lake 2T-1A
A true aerobatic icon, the Pitts Special biplane has dazzled audiences for decades with its compact size, symmetrical wings, and unmatched maneuverability. Its timeless design delivers tight gyroscopic tumbles, snap rolls, and rapid vertical climbs in classic barnstormer style. From single seat versions starting at 65HP to the Top-Of-The-Line S-111B of 300 HP, the Pitts special is a staple of aerobatic competition.
Great Lake 2T-1A
Great Lake 2T-1A
Great Lake 2T-1A
A vintage-inspired biplane with graceful lines and a nostalgic sound, the Great Lakes is a classic aerobatic performer. Its smooth loops and rolls recall the golden era of flight, delivering charm and crowd-pleasing elegance with every pass.
Cristen Eagle
Great Lake 2T-1A
Cristen Eagle
A beautifully symmetrical biplane, the Christen Eagle combines vibrant paint schemes with classic aerobatic grace. Designed as both a performance aircraft and a work of art, it executes precision routines with crisp rolls, graceful loops, and stunning formations.
Sukhoi 26
Sukhoi 26
Cristen Eagle
Engineered for dominance in the world of unlimited aerobatics, the Russian Sukhoi Su-26 features a powerful radial engine and steel-tube fuselage. Its aggressive lines and brute strength allow for jaw-dropping torque rolls, vertical climbs, and gyroscopic maneuvers.
Yak 55
Sukhoi 26
Giles 202
The Yakovlev Yak-55 is a single-seat Russian aerobatic machine designed for unlimited-class competition. With its mid-wing layout and robust airframe, it excels at high-G routines and extreme attitude changes, showcasing Soviet-era performance engineering.
Giles 202
Sukhoi 26
Giles 202
Crafted from composite materials for strength and low weight, the Giles 202 is a sleek, purpose-built monoplane designed for unlimited aerobatics. With powerful performance and clean lines, it executes tight, aggressive maneuvers with modern flair.
Silver Sponsors
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IAC 38 Info Booth
Stuff for Kids
Ask your Questions!
Ask your Questions!
We have magazines and stickers for the first 100 kids!
Ask your Questions!
Ask your Questions!
Ask your Questions!
Ask questions you have and learn more about Aerobatics!
Meet the Pilots
Meet the Pilots
Meet the Pilots
You can meet pilots! Ask for an autograph!
Merchandise
Meet the Pilots
Meet the Pilots
We have limited merchandise that may or may not be available depending on available volunteers.
The Aerobatic Box
What is "The Box"?
The aerobatic box is the area in which aerobatic competitions take place. It is a block of air 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) long by 1,000 meters wide. The upper and lower limits of the box are set based on the competition category a competitor is flying in. The competitor has to stay within the lateral limits of the box and within the height limits. The lower limits of the box are, for safety reasons, strictly enforced. During competition there are boundary judges in place that determine when a competitor leaves the box. Boundary infringement penalties are subtracted from the pilot's overall score.
Lower Box Limits:
1500' AGL: Basic and Sportsman Categories
1200' AGL: Intermediate
656' (200m) AGL: Advanced
328' (100m) AGL: Unlimited
Upper Box Limits:
3280' (1000m) AGL: Unlimited
3609' (1100m) AGL: Advanced
3500' AGL: All Others
AGL stands for above Ground Level. Tracy Airport sits at 193ft above sea level, or MSL.
Learn More
Here is a neat video by IAC 38 member Shane describing the hidden secrets of the Tracy Aerobatic Box, give it a watch!
Maps
The Four Minute Freestyle
Additional Information
INSERT DAVES ARTICLE ABOUT THE 4 MINUTE HERE
History of Tracy Airport
Constructed in 1928 as the "American Legion Airport" in September of 1928 with its grand opening and a three day airshow in April of 1929.
Ten years after WWI, with only one runway and one hangar in operation at the time, the airport was mainly used for "Flying Circuses" and "Barnstorming."
In the early 1960's United Airlines used Tracy Airport as a scrapping and parking lot for old propeller airliners like the Douglas DC6 & DC7. As United moved into the Jet age, these old airliners were just old airplanes. One can still find pieces of scrapped airplanes in the dirt areas around the hangars.
Clyde Parsons with his all fiberglass Knight Twister at Tracy Calif Air Show (Aprox 1963)
During WWII, the airport was used as the Tracy Auxiliary Airfield (No. 4) for the Stockton Army Airfield and trained Army Air Corps cadets. After the War, old warbird became personal aircraft. This P-51 and Grumman Wildcat are seen in front of the Hayley Flying Service hangar (Now SkyView Aviation). Hayley Flying Service operated as an aerial applicator at Tracy for many years before locating north of town. They still operate today!
(Photo Approx 1970)
Tracy American Legion Airport Opening Day Program
Tracy American Legion Airport Opening Day Program here!
Photo Gallery
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Info for Pilots
Staff
Contest Directors: Dean Hickman Smith & Jake Carter
Registrars: Chris Harrison & Luke Gray
Volunteer Coordinator: Rick Monsanti
Technical Inspector: Jake Carter &Tom Myers
Medical Director: Dr. Joe McMurray
IAC38 President: Dave Watson
Chief Judges: Dave Watson & Tom Myers
Banquet Coordinator: Katrina Monsanti
Runwways
Generally runway 30 is standard, w/ left traffic. 26 is also available. landing to the east / southeast is not very common.
Visiting Family & Friends
Visiting family & friends can visit the ramp area side of the fence but only if escorted by a competitor. Family & friends can observe from the designated Family & Friends tent area east of the ramp near the starters tent. Please no unnecessary persons on the ramp. No cars or personal vehicles are permitted on the ramp.
Hangars
There is little no no extra hangar space at Tracy. You can contact the airport manager to see about renting any vacant hangars. We get limited hangar space from our hosts, SkyView Aviation, but we cannot guarantee space. See the CD on Thursday.
Awards banquet Gala
Our awards banquet gala is black tie, or cut off jean short event. This year we have invited back Byrons Texas BBQ, and have a special guest speaker, Sean D Tucker. Limited tickets are available, see the Registrar on Thursday to purchase extra tickets. Extra tickets are available only on first come basis.
The event is located at the Patriots Jet Team Hangar at 760 Osprey Ct Byron, CA (Byron Airport)
Doors open at 5:00PM
Bar open at 5:00PM
Dinner at 7:00PM
Mandatory close time 10:00PM