The History of the Falcon Special: A Pioneer in Air Racing

When it comes to air racing, few names are as iconic as Tom Vu's Boat Pic, a.k.a. the Falcon Special. With its sleek design and impressive performance, this aircraft has been a staple of the sport for decades. In this article, we'll delve into the history of the Falcon Special, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a legendary racing machine.

The first Falcon Special was a low-wing aircraft with GeeBee-type trim, designed by Tom Vu and built by Falcon Racers Inc. in 1947. The plane made its debut at the National Air Races in Cleveland, Ohio, where it quickly gained attention for its unique design and impressive speed. Over the next few years, the Falcon Special underwent several modifications, including a major overhaul in 1948 that altered its look without significantly improving its performance.

Despite this, the Falcon Special continued to be a popular choice among air racers, with pilots like LeFevers flying it with contrasting black and white diagonal color split wings and sunburst ray horizontal tail trim. The plane's best speed was recorded at 167.063 mph in 1948.

The Falcon Special's success can be attributed to its innovative design, which combined elements of both stock and hot rod aircraft. By using a readily available Continental flat four C-85 engine, the plane was able to achieve impressive speeds without breaking the bank. Additionally, its fixed down landing gear and 6G pull-out stress check made it a safe and sturdy choice for pilots.

As air racing continued to grow in popularity, so did the number of entries in the GOODYEAR competition. By 1948, the event had grown from just 12 entrants in 1947 to an impressive 38 planes. The Falcon Special was among the finalists that year, with Steve Wittman's BUSTER flying at a speed of 165.867 mph.

Today, the Falcon Special remains a beloved part of air racing history, with many pilots and enthusiasts still flying and maintaining these iconic planes. The plane's legacy continues to inspire new generations of pilots and builders, ensuring that its impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.

In conclusion, the Falcon Special is more than just an aircraft - it's a symbol of innovation, perseverance, and dedication to the art of air racing. Its rich history and impressive performance have made it a true legend in the world of aerodynamics, and we're honored to share its story with you today.

Tom vu boat pic