Incident Overview
During the third lap of an International Formula One Air Race, the pilot of a modified aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power and aborted the race. The private pilot turned south toward the center of the airport and initiated an emergency descent with the intention of landing on runway 35R, which measures 3,502 feet in length and 75 feet in width and is constructed of asphalt and concrete.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft approached the landing area, approximately 50 feet above ground level (agl) and near the approach end of runway 35R, the airplane stalled and entered a left spin. Subsequently, the aircraft impacted the edge of the runway in a near-vertical, nose-down attitude before coming to rest in an inverted position.
Engine Examination Findings
A post-accident examination of the modified four-cylinder engine revealed that the loss of engine power was due to a fracture of the number two piston to crankshaft connecting rod. No other anomalies were reported in the examination.