On September 20, 1913, a significant aviation race took place near London, drawing eleven competitors to compete over a distance of 150 kilometers. This event, often referred to as an aviation derby, was one of the early organized air races and showcased the growing interest in aerial competition during the early 20th century. Among the participants were French aviators Marty and Verrier, who flew a monoplane and a biplane, respectively. They finished in eighth and ninth places, while the race was also marked by an accident involving Pickles' aircraft, which was carrying a passenger, Mrs. Stocks. During the incident, Mrs. Stocks sustained injuries, highlighting the risks associated with early aviation. The race saw Hawker securing third place, with Barnwell finishing in second. However, the overall winner was Gustav Hamel, an English pilot of German origin. Born in Hamburg, Hamel had received his training at the Blériot school in Pau, a well-known institution for aviation education at the time. His victory was notable not only for his position on the podium but also for the speed at which he completed the course. Hamel finished the race in 1 hour, 15 minutes, and 49 seconds, achieving an average speed of 121 kilometers per hour. Hamel’s success underscored the international nature of early aviation, where pilots from various backgrounds competed on equal footing. The event also demonstrated the evolving technology and techniques in flight, as well as the dangers that still accompanied air travel during this pioneering era. The race attracted considerable attention and marked a milestone in the development of competitive aviation. The accident involving Pickles' aircraft, which resulted in injuries to Mrs. Stocks, served as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in these early air races. Despite such incidents, the competition continued to draw participants and spectators, reflecting the public's fascination with the possibilities of flight. As aviation technology advanced, so too did the safety measures and the structure of these competitions, paving the way for the modern air races we see today.