Page:The Fun of It.pdf/191

Rh equipment, may be expected to tread pretty closely upon the heels of their male competitors.

In the 1931 National Air Races, men and women had separate events as usual. However, during the year, throughout the country there were an increas­ing number of contests in which both sexes partici­pated, solely as pilots. Slowly the prejudice against women is lessening, and it appears probable that before long they will compete in major speed events on equal terms.

Whatever handicaps in tradition, training or ex­perience women face they do not have to overcome any as far as Department of Commerce licenses are concerned. In this connection, they are more fortunate than some of their sisters abroad. Some countries issue only restricted licenses to women and in some, women cannot hold any, so far as I can find out. England is the notable exception and fol­lows the same rule as does the United States, i.e., if a candidate passes physical and flying tests a li­cense is issued according to qualifications irrespec­tive of sex.

The Federation Aéronautique Internationale governs the aeronautical sporting events here and abroad, and is in charge of all record flights. The National Aeronautic Association is the representa­tive in the United States of that body. No pilot can make an official test for altitude, speed or dis­tance without its sanction. Its representatives are on hand to supervise all efforts at record making.

Since the establishment of the F. A. I. twenty