Object Details
Physical Description
Orange short-sleeved T-shirt, size adult medium. Blank on front, "Section 3 Reno Air Races" and Section 3 logo on back in black. Measurements taken spread flat.
Summary
Led by founder Bob Lewis, Section 3 is a raucous, fun-loving, and orange-clad group of fans dedicated to the National Championship Air Races at Reno, Nevada. Lewis started attending in 1979 with his friends from the Idaho National Guard. While aircraft were landing and taking off between the race heats, he and his friends entertained the crowd. At the 1982 races on Thursday, September 16, Lewis invited everyone to meet in section 3 in the spectator stands the following day (Friday, September 17), which marks the official beginning of the group and explains the meaning of their name. The makers of the IMAX film, Air Racers 3D (2012), recognized Section 3 as an essential part of the Reno experience.
Spectators and fans are an overlooked, but crucial, element in understanding the role of motorsports in American culture. Their enthusiasm has fueled professional motorsports and created related industries, such as fan-centric memorabilia.
Credit Line
Gift of Section 3
Inventory Number
A20210247000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
MEMORABILIA-Events
Materials
Cotton, Polyester
Dimensions
Clothing: 82.5 × 69.8cm (2 ft. 8 1/2 in. × 2 ft. 3 1/2 in.)
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Exhibition
Nation of Speed
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A20210247000