Final Flight of the Ghost

Just took the time to watch this and it brought back alot of bittersweet memories. My family and I were sitting just a few rows behind the point of impact that day, and in retrospect, it was definately one of the hardest things I've ever had to witness. I'd never met Jimmy, but I'll forever be a fan of his legacy and the roll he played in shaping the sport of air racing. We used to travel to Reno for the air races every couple years, prior to the crash, but haven't been back since. This year is different. Being the last year it will ever be held in Reno, I couldn't let it pass without a proper goodbye, so off we go. Thanks to all the great pilots (looking at you Jimmy) and teams for a great run. It's been my honor to cheer you on for all these years.

I was the lead announcer for the races at Reno... have been since 2002. Steve Stavrakakis, also a fine airshow pilot, is my co-announcer and color guy for the unlimiteds. The sad event is etched into my mind for keeps. As was the incredible rescue effort which followed. A real tough afternoon.

This is the absolute best air racing tape that I have ever seen, and I have looked at a few. The engine starts, the sounds of the engines running @ takeoff power: you captured it all, not to mention the exact instant at which the late Jimmy Leeward's Galloping Ghost departed controlled flight, never to return. You have a gift, Voodoo 1650, God bless you. I am sure that you have helped the NTSB immensely with their investigation. Clutch

total irresponsibility on Jimmy and the crew!! You NEVER take shortcuts on aviation equipment of any part...document, document and document!! every thing...RIP Jimmy...

As an old and somewhat bold pilot told me back in the day -- flying is not inherently dangerous, but it is absolutely unforgiving.

Great Video, thanks for sharing. This has to be one of the best short videos showing the Reno air race. Great start up and view of all the competitors. Too bad it has to be connected to such a great tragedy. You can tell the videographer has a great love of WWII planes like most of us. Great job!

Great respectfull video. Thank you! Unfortunately I was there and lost some family Friends as well. Forever etched in my mind. Fortunately Reno lives on.

Thanks so much for producing this and sharing it. I met Jimmy at a hangar party a few years back. One of the very best guys!

Voodoo, my compliments on an excellent video. And my appreciation for you sharing it. You did a fine job of camerawork, editing, and presentation with feeling. The Ghost was so beautiful, sleek, and sexy, even in its plain paint. I loved the concept and the approach Jimmy came up with to go fast. The challenge he threw down to his friends at Strega would have been an adventure to watch. It is all very sad, and somehow inspiring at the same time. I'll be back next year.

Awesome video Jason. Thanks for letting me use your footage for our tribute video Im working on. Can't wait to meet you sometime.

11 years ago... I was sitting in those stands. I'll Never forget the sound

Absolutely gorgeous. Me and my dad went down to the valley of speed at Reno in 2010, and watched Ghost in action. She was such a beautiful plane.

Thank you for the wonderful tribute, and not showing the crash and aftermath. Was very close to the crash site and the scenes still bother me.

I’ve been to a lot of air shows and air races over the years and have personally been close to many a mishap and had met many of the pilots, performers, and ground crew. This tribute was a fitting testament to the golden days of the Reno Air Races. I don’t know what comes next for the races as a whole, but blessings and prayers to a truly sterling group of aviation enthusiasts! ❤❤❤

nice thanks for the comment and thanks for the support

I was here when this happened.  I was sitting right where the plane went in and all of my neighboring spectators were killed. For some reason got out of my seat 3:45 before the crash and filmed the race, and jimmies rapid climb/fall into seats. Very emotional day and I became close with the FAA folks there afterward.    Hope you can keep what's important in focus in this forum.

You can actually see the trim tab separating during the climb. Legendary machines flown by legendary pilots.

Is the canopy on Strega and Voodoo and the way it moves backward and forward identical, or do they just look similar in design from a distance?

this is the best video footage that i have seen before the crash. RIP Jimmy and all those who passed. certainly the trim tab was to blame after watching this peice. thanks

I was out there the day before ( the only day the Thunderbirds were scheduled to perform...) and had planned to return on Sunday for the finals. Condolances to Jimmy Leeward, his extended air racing Family & all of the fans. May the Reno Air Racing tradition live on. I can't wait!