King's Cup (air race)
The King's Cup air race is a British handicapped cross-country event, which has taken place annually since 1922. It is run by the Royal Aero Club Records Racing and Rally Association.
| The King's Cup | |
|---|---|
Airco DH.4A (G-EAMU), after winning the first King's Cup air race, 1922 | |
| Awarded for | Handicapped air race for light aircraft, and British or Commonwealth pilots |
| Country | International |
| Presented by | His Majesty King George V |
| First awarded | 1922 |
| Last awarded | 2017 |
| Website | Royal Aero Club Records Racing and Rally Association |
The King's Cup is one of the most prestigious prizes of the British air racing season. The entrants are divided into classes, and each is evaluated and given a time handicap for the start of the race. They all take off at varying times according to their handicap, with the handicappers' aim being that they should all cross the finishing line at the same moment. The art of winning the race outright is therefore to beat the handicappers, rather than to make the fastest flight as such. The aircraft are also divided into classes, with a winner for each class as well as the outright winner.