Mahoney | ||||||||||||||||||||
Sorceress # |
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Photo: Robert Deering 10/23/2006 Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Chantilly, Virginia |
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Designed and built by Lee Mahoney and his
father, S. C. "Mickey" Mahoney, the
Sorceress was the first sport biplane to
exceed 322 kilometers (200 miles) per hour
on a closed course, and it reached 394
kilometers (245 miles) per hour in level
flight. The aircraft proved so successful
that the rules governing its competition
qualification were modified to such an
extent that the Sorceress was forced into
retirement. Fitted with only a single 135-horsepower Lycoming O-290-D2 engine, this unique metal staggerwing biplane flew to many victories during its distinguished career in the 1970s. Noted air racing pilot Don Beck purchased the Sorceress in 1972 and flew it to many more wins. Beck gave the aircraft to the Museum in 1984. |
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