The race was half over when Jerry opened the gasolene throttle wider. At once the Comet shot well to the fore. As if only waiting for this the others followed suit, all save the Antoinette, which had to drop out. This left five contestants.
“Now the real race begins,” remarked Jerry grimly, as he took a firmer grasp of the steering wheel.
“And here comes Noddy,” added Ned.
Indeed the race was now on in earnest. Faster and faster flew the airships, their motors crackling and spluttering in a deafening manner. They were not flying very high, for it was desired to give the spectators a good view of the spectacular contest.
“They’re creeping up,” warned Bob, as he saw the other four machines edging closer and closer.
“Let them,” said Jerry. “I’ve got some reserve power yet, and I think they’re about all in.”
Ned looked at the speed gage.
“Ninety miles an hour!” he gasped. “We’ll finish in a few minutes more.”
“That’s what I hope to do,” replied the tall lad.