Rosecrans hosts 2nd Annual Pony Express STOL
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Rosecrans Memorial Airport will once again play host to the Pony Express STOL event, welcoming the National STOL Series back to St. Joseph for its second year.
STOL, or "Short Take-Off and Landing," is an act of aircraft operating on short runways, unprepared surfaces or tight spaces.
The planes used in the event have high lifts, allowing them to endure steep and slow-speed landings, as well as rapid takeoffs.
The event typically showcases pilot skill and aircraft performance.
The event's debut in 2025 brought 35 entrants and roughly 600 spectators, according to a news release from the City of St. Joseph.
Organizers of the competition anticipate increased pilot participation and higher attendance this year, as the event continues to grow into an annual staple for the community.
Last year's competition winner posted a combined score of 86 feet, taking off in 46 feet and landing in 40 feet, which is a total distance nearly 50 feet shorter than the wingspan of a C-130.
Spectators can expect food and refreshment vendors, as well as additional offerings and activities being planned to enhance the overall experience.
The competition will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, with gates opening at 9 a.m.
National STOL manages the ticketed event with local planning by the aerial event committee and support from sponsors and community partners.
Rosecrans will provide operational support as the host location.
Information about the series and ticket priving will be available at nationalstol.com.
Anyone with airport-related questions is directed to call Rosecrans at 816-271-5374.
The Pony Express STOL is the first of three planned special gatherings at Rosecrans in the coming months.
The airport will host Stop 7 of the Women's Air Race Classic on June 24 through the 26, marking the first time the race has come to St. Joseph, with plans underway for a small community engagement opportunity during peak arrivals.
Rosecrans is also developing a new aviation-themed event inspired by the 2022 Warbird Fly-In that will serve as a recurring anchor gathering. The event is expected to take place in the coming fall, and more information will be released at a later date.
