Drone Racing League, a New York startup, is planning its first public race later this year
[Philip Lelyveld comment: There is a great opportunity now for micro drone performance pieces in movie theaters and other venues. Think touring laserium-style shows!]
RSE Ventures, a venture-capital firm co-founded by Mr. Ross, is providing $1 million to the first round of funding for the Drone Racing League, a New York startup that is planning its first public race later this year. The League intends to make money through sponsorships, media and ticket sales.
The Drone Racing League is targeting a growing audience: videogame players and other technology-oriented types. The venture hopes to re-create the success of live videogame competitions, which lately have been packing arenas like Madison Square Garden.
Hobbyists typically race the so-called “250 Class” of drones, which cost $300 to $500 and can hit speeds of 70 miles an hour, and racers through the Drone Racing League will pilot similar drones. The machines are nimble enough to navigate the old factories and other interior spaces in which the Drone Racing League is planning its races.
See the full story here: http://www.wsj.com/articles/developer-stephen-rosss-rse-ventures-invests-in-drone-racing-1439327632