Three Teams Fight for the World Land Speed Record

Land speed racing is back as three teams will go for the win this time, attempting to travel faster than 800 mph (1,287 k/h) for the World Land Speed Record. Specifically, the Canadian/American team with its North American Eagle, the UK team with the Bloodhound SSC that appears ready to attempt the record in 2013, and the Australians with their Aussie Invader 5R, which will be ready in 2013-14.

"World Land Speed Record Racing used to have considerable international interest. When Thrust SSC broke the record in 1997, one billion television impressions were measured along with 3.5 million Internet hits in one day," stated Douglas Schwartz, Media Director for the North American Eagle team.

The North American Eagle is a converted F-104 Star fighter aircraft. The F-104, dubbed by aviation enthusiasts and the press as "The Missile with a Man in it," is powered by the 50,000hp GE J79 turbo-jet engine that allows it to travel at Mach 2.2. Yes, this is over twice the speed of sound. It has already reached speeds approaching 500 mph (805 km/h).

"With Ed Shadle and North American Eagle ready to attempt the record this year, Andy Green (the fastest man on earth) and the Bloodhound SSC ready to attempt the record in 2012-2013, and Rosco McGlashan (the fastest Aussie) and the Aussie Invader 5R ready to attempt the record in 2013-14, World Land Speed Racing will again be in the spotlight of extreme sports racing where it belongs," Schwartz continued.

As this is an expensive sport, all three teams require sponsorships to attempt the record. So, if you want to be involved in this historic event, you are invited to call 800-257-1759 or e-mail [email protected].