Rare Bear’s 2006 Reno Run Ends in Mid-Air Engine Failure

During qualifying for the 2006 Reno Air Races, the highly modified Grumman F8F Bearcat known as “Rare Bear” delivered one of the most dramatic moments ever seen over the desert course. Piloted by Ron Buccarelli, the aircraft had already been battling engine issues earlier in the week. The team managed to get the engine running well enough for a qualifying attempt, knowing it might be their only chance to post a competitive time.

Buccarelli pushed the aircraft hard. Rare Bear completed two high-speed laps and was accelerating through the final stretch when the engine failed just before the finish line. At racing speed, the failure was immediate and violent. Smoke began pouring from the engine as Buccarelli pulled the aircraft off the course.

Instead of attempting to stretch the glide at low altitude, he converted speed into altitude, giving himself time to set up a controlled emergency landing. This decision proved critical. With limited power and a damaged engine, he guided the aircraft back toward Runway 14 and brought it down safely.

Despite the failure, Rare Bear recorded a qualifying speed of 455.774 mph, the second fastest of the event. The result showed the aircraft’s raw performance, even in compromised condition.

The damage, however, ended the team’s week. The engine could not be repaired in time, forcing Rare Bear out of the remaining races.

The flight stands as a clear example of how quickly air racing can shift from precision performance to emergency decision-making. Buccarelli’s handling of the failure preserved both the aircraft and his life, even as the team’s championship hopes came to an abrupt end.