The Tech Sport Of The Future Is Here

First-person view Drone Rracing is set to be huge in 2017. But how easy is it to fly at over 80mph, let alone race? T3’s drone expert takes the controls.

- Chris Barnes

The tech sport of the future is here. In just a few short years, first-person drone racing has sprung up from an underground hobby of self-built machines and amateur races, to a high tech, big-money sport. Since 2015 the Drone Racing League (DRL) has led the way, partnering with major sponsors and broadcasters, and attracting high-profile investors such as Miami dolphins owner Stephen ross. Pundits have even suggested that drone racing could reach the heights of Formula one. Not such an outlandish claim considering 2016’s DRL winner bagged a professional contract and six-figure salary.

So, how does a drone race work? In the case of the DRL, a group of highly-skilled pilots duke it out, inches apart and flying at speeds of up to 90mph, through tight, neon-lit 3D courses in abandoned buildings and stadiums. Each pilot wears first-person view (FPV) goggles, viewing a live feed from the camera on-board their drone. It’s like being inside a very realistic video game.

I’m determined to try this. But, if I’m to become a successful (and minted) drone racer, I need to find a professional willing to show me the ropes. A few calls later, I have a DRL training session in the diary.

KEEP IT SIM-PLE

With the big day looming, my nerves kick in. What if FPV flying makes me throw up? What if I give someone a buzz cut with a drone? Thankfully the DRL’s free simulator (for Mac/PC) comes with a training program and official DRL tracks to prepare noobs like me for action.

I’ve tested many camera drones for T3; usually they’re loaded with anti-collision sensors, GPS positioning and other tech to keep them airborne. Racing-spec drones dispense with such luxuries, placing control over all axes of movement in the hands of the pilot. Looks like I’ll need to put in some serious hours on the DRL simulator first...