Countdown to the 27th AirVenture Cup Cross-Country Air Race Begins

It’s that time of year again for pilots with aircraft of all shapes and sizes to begin registering for the annual AirVenture Cup Cross-Country Air Race (AVC). Over 100 people have put their names into the competition so far, and applications will remain open through June 2.

The AVC is an amateur open-circuit race, available to all experimental and factory-built airplanes. Over the last 26 years, it has become a staple of the EAA’s AirVenture Oshkosh airshow and “embodies the resourcefulness, inclusiveness, and volunteer spirit that are the hallmarks of both the Experimental Aircraft Association and AirVenture Oshkosh,” the organization explained.

The event typically begins on the opening weekend of the convention in late July. Most applicants choose to use the race as their entry to a week of aviation fun at AirVenture, flying into Wisconsin’s Wittman Regional Airport (OSH) at its conclusion.

This year is no different, with participants expected to meet in Wausau, Wisconsin, on July 20, 2025. Aircraft, sorted into groups based on certification, engine size, induction type, and landing gear configuration for a more equal competition, will depart at 9:00 am.

After takeoff, pilots will bring their planes northeastward along the course. They will hit several checkpoints along the way, reaching the finish line before touching back down at Wausau Downtown Airport (AUW) to conclude the race. The flying does not end there, however, with most racers choosing to continue East for the Oshkosh fly-in.

Though the race is the focal point of the weekend, the AirVenture Cup hosts several aviation-related activities leading up to the flight. Two days prior, on July 18, there will be a friendly meet-up at a to-be-announced location for racers to chat and get to know each other. The next day, AVC will host an Airport Open House at Wausau Downtown Airport to allow locals to visit the planes and talk to competitors.

The Race Entry Fee is currently $375, which grants entry to the race, t-shirts for the pilot and co-pilot, a commemorative AVC program, access to the Airport Open House, a pre-race happy hour and meal, week-long admission to AirVenture, and preferred flight line parking at OSH. Race winners and trophies will be shared at a ceremony on July 21.

FMI: www.airventurecuprace.com