The first Women’s Air Derby was flown in 1929 with brave women making history by breaking into a competition that was thought to be for men only. They encountered sabotage, death, and all the difficulties of flying at the dawn of aviation. Today the Powder Puff Derby continues as the Air Race Classic. The modern-day racers carry out the legacy of the original racers with their adventurous spirit.
Production
Gorgeous archival footage that makes 1929 look impossibly vivid.
Direction
Martinelli refuses to let these women stay footnotes.
Director
Kara Martinelli
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Amelia Earhart competed in the 1929 derby but finished third—she'd rather you forgot that part.
The 'Powder Puff' name was mockery turned badge of honor; the film tracks how women weaponized condescension against itself.
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