fun up there. It’s a completely different
genre of racing. Watching waves from
hydroplane racing doesn’t really transfer
over to runabout racing. It’s a different
ball game but a lot of fun nonetheless.”
Driving boats in smaller classes
is nothing new with current drivers.
Decades ago, famous drivers including
Bill Muncey, Mira Slovak, and Billy
Schumacher drove inboards and
outboards in addition to participating
in the fastest class. Muncey especially
encouraged new drivers to gain
experience and compete in a variety of
classes.
Several top hydroplane drivers are
taking part in the action this weekend.
Fans can cheer for their favorites while
they witness the sponson-to-sponson
thrills. The roar of the big automotive
engines shouts the intensity of the
competition.
Opportunities exist for potential new
drivers to look into organizing their own
racing team. Young children, both boys
and girls, can start in Junior Outboard
classes, while older adults can step
into larger outboard classes or inboard
boats. “My dad and I started in a Jersey
Speed Skiff, a two-person boat,”
remembers Thompson. “He drove and
I rode. Then I started driving. I started
driving hydros while we were at the
races.” Information for new racers
is readily available from
the American Power
Boat Association, email
apbahq@apba.org,
phone 586-773-9700.
After gaining some
experience, new drivers
will be able to move ove into H
HRL classes
and compete against ainst the
their
heroes. Fans
who prefer to
watch from the
grandstands
can see their
favorites in HRL
Grand Prix action.n.
Either way, the
roostertails are
flying!
w
n
s
d
ey
d
eir
PHOTOS BY ROBERT F PETERS
2019 Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers Hydrofest
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