hero that he was he got away with it
With the oversight present at an aviation event of this type, you only get away with something if someone lets you away with it.....
Focusing on the possible considerations of speed and flutter (of the elevator trim tab) as they related to this accident.... Before I can state that a flight test and the design being tested are satisfactory for certification, and thus "public" operation, I have to satisfactorily flight test to 110% of the certified limiting speed.
Do the authorities of these air racing events require evidence of satisfactory flight test to even 100% of the speed to be flown in the race? I know that it tends to defeat the purpose of the race, but this public operation of the aircraft, and the public should have some expectation of safety. Alternatively the "testing" phase of the demonstration of the capability of the aircraft might be better done a safe distance from the public. Perhaps it is now, I have know knowledge of the Reno air races.