Pilot

McClain was the first person in modern air racing to win major championships in two different classes (T-6 and Unlimited). McClain captured his first T-6 title at the Texas Races in 1972 and went on to win the Reno National Championship event as well. Mac was a frequent top qualifier in the T-6 class and held qualifying and race records alike. His first Unlimited appearance was in the Great Miami Air Race of 1973. His first victory came at the California National Air Races in 1974. He won it again in '76, and the Reno Air Races in 1980, the year he became National Points Champion. McClain's accomplishments weren't limited to the cockpit. He was instrumental in the creation of the famed Red Baron Air Racing Team and was responsible for bringing several major sponsorships to the sport. He was responsible for creating two of the most famous racing aircraft ever, the #5 Red Baron RB-51 and #69 "Jeannie." McClain died of cancer at 45.