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“If you want to finish first…………………………
you first have to finish”. In simple terms, Kayleigh did and Greg did not and that’s how the season opener for ULHRA ended as Trafficade Work Zone Services presented the Unlimited Lights at Firebird International Raceway at Chandler AZ.
This was no sprint; it was a marathon; 5 heats of racing over the course of 3 days on what may be the toughest race course for UL teams to compete. Very tight turns on the 1 ¼ mile Firebird International Raceway course challenges the drivers and their crews who set up the hydroplanes.
Through the first four heats Kayleigh Perkins in the UL-72 Miss Boat Electric and Greg & Jerry Hopp in the UL-15 Graham Trucking GT-Happy Go Lucky won all of their preliminaries as the luck of the draws never matched the two leading teams in the series. In the Final they finally met. Greg Hopp took the lead out of turn number 1 and was about a half roostertail length in front going into turn #2. Because my view as race announcer to the second turn was blocked by a truck parked in the wrong spot, I didn’t see what happened to Greg’s ride, but when the teams came into view, Kayleigh Perkins was leading and Paul Becker was second in the UL-14 Miss Critical Logic. Greg’s ride succumbed to mechanical problems and ultimately drifted into view.
Nine Unlimited Lights teams made the early season-opening trek to Phoenix. Paul Becker was every bit as consistent as Kayleigh Perkins with one exception. While Kayleigh won all 5 of her heats, Paul finished second in all 5 of his heats and sits third in the ULHRA standings with 1500 points, just behind Greg Hopp in second with 1600 while Ms. Perkins has 2000 competition points.
Oregon’s Bob Smets and his UL-20 Smetco Overtime demonstrated much improvement over 2007. Unfortunately the team ran into engine problems and had to withdraw midway through the weekend, but with a new 509 engine awaiting installation they will be ready to compete at race number two in Richland WA on May 17 & 18.
Wil Muncey in the UL-00……the “Little Red Boat” from the two boat Muncey fleet, took a first and second in preliminary competition before a freak battery failure in the electric fuel pump led to a damaged engine and early withdrawal. That was the story of the Trafficade team at Phoenix as all 3 boats, Muncey’s UL-00, plus the two Dennis Johnson owned race craft; the UL-93 Desperado and the G-93 Johnson-Wolfe Racing Special were ultimately beached due to engine failures, but not before showing all three are quite competitive. This weekend (May 3 & 4) both the Desperado and the Muncey Trafficade will join the Mike Sadlon owned UL-89 Lake Trash Apparel and the G-10 of Milton & Charley Wiggins at Pickwick Landing TN for an exhibition of ULHRA Racing.
Michael Flaherty drove the UL-11 Roxy 94.5 presents Power Punch to a first & second place finish in preliminary competition, but like the Muncey team ran into problems in the third heat and weren’t able to recover. However, considering the team was barely able to finish last minute hull issues in time to leave the Seattle area on Wednesday night and arrived at the pit area on Friday morning at 10:00am, it certainly was a productive weekend for the Darren Bartels owned team from Buckley WA.
Florida’s Mike Sadlon was unable to drive his UL-89 Lake Trash Apparel entry but Illinois’ Marty Wolfe stepped in as substitute driver, picking up a second and a third place finish in the two heats the team completed. Wolfe also provided excellent technical assistance to the Sadlon team.
A new award was presented for the first time; the Grace Under Pressure Award, by Mechanix Gloves. The team earning the honor: ULHRA’s first Texas based team, the UL-39 Rouly Heat Exchangers “Pressure’s On” with driver “Smokin Joe” Souza of Lakewood WA. Souza along with Crew Chief Tom Bock, team owner Bob Scribner and son Kevin Scribner and the rest of the team worked long hours putting the finishing touches on a hydroplane that hadn’t touched the water since 2003. The craft is the original UL-929 of Vince X-Man Xaudaro and was acquired out of Mexico a year ago. It’s a “sister hull” to the UL-20 Smetco Overtime and working overtime is exactly what the team did. Finally, in time for the Semi Final Heat the UL-39 was ready to make a start. Unfortunately no other teams were able to start that heat and the race was black flagged. But the 39 team did make a legal start and their ULHRA career is now underway. Look for marked improvement at Richland.
On the Thunderboat side at Firebird, that “if you want to finish first……….mantra was never better exemplified than by David Warren; sole owner and driver of the G-329 Block Head Machine presents My Town Motors. Finishing a heat, any heat, has been a challenge since this original Thunderboat team began in 2005. This weekend was flawless, except for the broken supercharger belt that derailed the G-329 in one preliminary heat. Otherwise, excellent engine performance from the Block Head Machine built supercharged 572 V-8 and led to a close, exciding, and popular first time victory in the Final over R.W. Dick Lynch in the G-13 Jet Chevrolet.com Tempo. For the fans of nitro drag boat racing at Phoenix, the “Thunderboat Final” was what they liked…….fast, closely contested…and LOUD! To top off things for Dave Warren he was presented the Wyatt’s Diamond Jewelers Outstanding Performance of the Weekend Award: an exquisite Wyatt’s Watch from the Monroe WA company.
For the Jet Chevrolet team the first race of the year was a complete reversal of fortune compared to 2007 when it seemed that if something could go wrong, it did. With 4 heat finishes including one outright victory, the G-13 leads the North American Challenge Cup standings by 200 points over the G-329.
It appeared that the G-17 Checker Auto Parts driven by Dustin Echols was destined for the win with 3 preliminary heat victories. However the boat spun-out in turn one of the Final and Echols did not finish. Co-owner Shawn Bridgeman said their backup engine was a convoluted set of parts that ran far better than they expected after their G-468 engine was damaged in testing. The team knew the backup it didn’t meet the G-468 specs but wanted to run….and run they did! Meahwhile the G-93 Trafficade from Johnson Wolfe Racing driven by Marty Wolfe was also a strong runner. This hull was originally built by Jamie Auld and driven by Jimmy King in the 90’s but had been idle since 1996 till hitting the water on Friday at Firebird. Wolfe won the first heat over David Warren while the G-13 did not start and the G-17 had to withdraw from the first heat when their primary engine failed at the end of testing. In the second round Echols bested Warren and Lynch won after Wolfe’s ride pitched a rod through the bottom of the hull and had to withdraw for the weekend. Note that for the heats they did complete neither the G-17 nor G-93 received competition points because the engines they used at the time were out of compliance with Thunderboat rules. However they do receive the Bonus and Participation Points for the Phoenix event.
The teams from the Phoenix AZ event will be joined by many others for race number two on the ULHRA calendar. It will be Desert Thunder II at Howard Amon Park in Richland WA, May 17th and 18th and broadcast live throughout eastern Washington by 610AM Information Radio KONA.
John Lynch
P.R. Director and “Voice” of ULHRA Racing.
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Sunday Finals at Firebird
Saturday Heats at Firebird
Thunderboats at Firebird
Thunderboats at Firebird Photo courtesy of Phil Bononcini
Perkins and Hopp each 3 for 3.
Greg and Jerry Hopp each secured a heat victory on Saturday at Firebird International Raceway in Chandler AZ while Kayleigh Perkins drove to two victories. With three preliminary heats completed the UL-15 Graham Trucking - Happy Go Lucky and UL-72 Miss Boat Electric are tied with 1200 points. Perkins, the defending Unlimited Lights Champion and Hopp Racing which won the 4 previous titles from 2003-2006 are starting the season as if it'll again be a two boat battle till October.
Other teams are trying hard to end that run of 8 years of either Hopp Racing or Impact Racing winning the Unlimited Lights championship.
Paul Becker and his UL-14 Miss Critical Logic has 3 solid second place finishes for a total of 900 points on the weekend. If the standings hold through the 4th preliminary heat on Sunday morning it will mean that Perkins, Hopp & Becker will race for the Trafficade presents ULHRA Racing at Firebird title. Three boats per heat is the maximum for either the Unlimited Lights (UL) or Thunderboats (G) on the tight 1 1/4 mile long Firebird Lake course. The teams with the 4th, 5th & 6th place point totals after Sunday morning's preliminary heats will also compete in a separate Final to determine 4th, 5th & 6th place.
For Wil Muncey, Marty Wolfe and Randy Hurst it was a day of victory and ultimate defeat. For Muncey in the UL-00 Trafficade he picked up his first heat victory since joining the Unlimited Lights circuit at San Diego in 2005. Muncey defeated Michael Flaherty and Bob Smets for the win in Heat 2B. However in Heat 3A the high of a heat victory was followed by the low of mechanical failure that's knocked out the Muncey Racing team for the rest of this event. Going into tomorrow's preliminary and Final heat Muncey would have been tied for 5th place in points with Michael Flaherty; total of 700 each. Muncey has withdrawn from Sunday's competition. Unfortunately so has Randy Wolfe and Dennis Johnson's two other entries. the UL-93 Desperado and the G-93 Johnson-Wolfe Racing Special following drive train damage to each on Saturday.
On the Thunderboats (G) side of things, R.W. Dick Lynch in the Jet Chevrolet-Tempo G-13 picked up the victory in Heat section 2 following a spirited battle with G-93 driver Marty Wolfe who's boat expired shortly after being passed by Lynch. . Dustin Echolds scored a victrory in Heat section 3. Dave Warner in the G-329 Block Head Machine leads in points over Lynch in the G-13 by 100 going into the 4th heat on Sunday.
For the Lighter than LIGHTS, Bud Mckay and Mike Schroeder traded victories today. McKay's win followed a mechanic failur aboard Schroeder's E-23 Tight Spot and victory went to the E-10 Geico Insurance of Lakewood WA. In the 3rd heat the results were reversed, except that the driver of the E-10 was Steve Clark.....owner driver of the E-222 but in town to help McKay's team.
The 4th preliminary heat section will begin on Sunday around 12 noon Mountain Standard Time and the Final will be around 3:30pm. Sunday.
John Lynch
P.R. Director and "Voice" of ULHRA Racing.
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Lake Trash: The Official Apparel of the ULHRA
Perkins & Hopp win as expected. Flaherty's win unexpected.
The story of the first heat section of the first race of 2008 for the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Series was more of the same. Separated in the first round Kayleigh Perkins in the Miss Boat Electric, the 2007 UL champion, won over Wil Muncey and Marty Wolfe in Heat 1B at the Trafficade presents ULHRA at Firebird International Raceway near Phoenix AZ. The 19 year old Ms. Perkins battled with Muncey for 2 laps before securing the victory on the back stretch of the thrid & final lap. Muncey, driving the UL-00 Trafficade sponsored hydroplane finished about a roostertal length behind in second, while Marty Wolfe, substituting for Mike Sadlon in the UL-89 Miss Lake Trash Apparel wound up third.
In Heat 1A, Greg Hopp, driving the Graham Trucking G.T. - Happy Go Lucky took first over a determined Paul Becker in second in the Miss Critical Logic. Third place went to a strong performance by Oregon's Bob Smets in the UL-20 Smetco-Overtime.
The surprise was Heat 1C. Randy Hurst in the UL-93 Trafficade Safety Sales entry appeared on his way to a convincing victory when his ride went dead in the water at the end of lap #2. Flaherty, the only other starter in 1C motored on to victory in the UL-11 Roxy 94.5 presents Miss Power Punch Oil Supplements. It was the first finish for this team since acquiring this former Grand Prix Hull (Executiff III) a couple of years ago. This team, owned by Darren Bartels of Buckley WA was making it's first run of the season, and to date it's only successful run after an abreviated debut at Silverdale WA last August.
The tight 1 1/4 mile race course on Firebird Lake can handle only 3 boats at a time, particularly with the drag race course being a big consideration. ULHRA teams are racing here at part of the season opener of the IHBA Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing Series season opener.
The nine Unlimited Lights were drawn into three preliminary heats. The UL-39 Rouly Heat Exchangers "Pressure's On" entry, to be driven by "Smokin Joe" Souza was unable to start Heat 1C but expects to be racing on Saturday in day 2 of this 3 day event.
Four Thunderboat (G) teams made the trek to the Valley of the Sun and based on test runs earlier in the day it appeared that Marty Wolfe in the G-93 Johnson-Wolfe Racing Special and Dustin Echolls in the G-17 Checker Auto Parts would be the chief combatants. Unfortunately the Checker Auto Parts hydroplane sustained severe engine damage at the end of their test session on Firday morning and was unable to complete an engine swap in time. Wolfe, driving the boat that Dennis Johnson of Trafficade purchased from New Jersey's Roger Mahan over the winter, scored a solid victory over a vastly improved Dave Warren in the G-329 My Town Motors. R.W. Dick Lynch and the G-17 Jet Chevrolet - Tempo was unable to start the Thunderboat heat but that team expects to race on Saturday.
On the Lighter than LIGHTS side, newcomer to ULHRA Mike Schroeder in the 8 cylinder E-23 Tight Spot took first place over Bud McKay in the E-10 Geico Insurance of Lakewood WA. The third starter in the field was 4 cylinder entrant Kevin Eacret in the S-6 Geiko II of Lakewood - Lil' Miss Boat Electric. Eacret had 400 first place points in the 4 cylinder category wrapped up, but his boat faled to finish, going dead in the water at the exit pin of the final turn on the last lap.
Two more heat sections are scheduled on Saturday with the first expected to begin around 11:30am Pacific Daylight Time (2:30pm Eastern time). Live web cast coverage will continue for all heats of ULHRA racing through the weekend here at www.ulhra.org
John Lynch
P.R. Director and "Voice" of ULHRA Racing.
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Pictures at Firebird courtesy of Gold Cup Video
Friday Testing at Firebird Raceway
G 329 Preparing for Testing at Firebird Photo Courtesy of Phil Bononcini
The boats lined up at Firebird for Testing Photo Courtesy of Phil Bononcini
TranquilityHomeCare.com joins the flying ‘Gecko’ and Namron Racing Team for 2008
BELFAIR, Wash. – TranquilityHomeCare.com is the latest sponsor to join Belfair’s GEICO of Lakewood Presents the Namron Racing Team 8-Cylinder Lighter-Than-LIGHTS racing team. The sponsorship became official after the Unlimited Lights Hydroplane Racing Association’s Spring Training session on Lake Washington Thursday.
Owned by Elsa and Brent Hall, TranquilityHomeCare.com is a new adult family home provider offering luxury and waterfront adult family homes with top quality care for seniors in the Bothell, Bellevue, Seattle and surrounding areas.
“We’re proud to be one of the sponsors for the Namron Racing Team,” Hall said. “I saw Bud McKay in action at the Spring Training session the other day. He is what he said – ‘the biggest, little kid’ in the pits. He talks to the fans like they’re old friends. He was grabbing kids who were just walking by and putting them in the cockpit. He’s a great spokesman for not only his team but for the sport of hydroplane racing.”
Bud McKay, owner/driver of the GEICO of Lakewood Presents the Namron Racing Team, said TranquilityHomeCare.com’s sponsorship allowed his team to make the trip to Firebird Raceway, in Chandler, Ariz., for this weekend’s season opening Unlimited Lights Hydroplane Racing Association hydroplane race.
“TranquilityHomeCare.com made a huge commitment to our team and our program that will give us an opportunity to get every point we can this season in Lighter-Than-LIGHTS racing,” McKay said, the two-time defending series high points champion. “We’ll have the boat out for the residents to see at TranquilityHomeCare.com during the season. This will give the residents a break from watching Brent in the back yard running his radio controlled hydroplanes up and down the Sammamish River. I guess there are two ‘big kids’ in this newly formed partnership.”
TranquilityHomeCare.com joins GEICO of Lakewood, Wash., and McDonough and Sons Inc., as the Namron Racing Team’s primary sponsors for the 2008 season. The GEICO of Lakewood Presents the Namron Racing Team won the 8-Cylinder LTL high points titles in 2006 and 2007.
From the Lighter Side…
By Bud McKay
Three Lighter-Than-LIGHTS team took advantage of the 2008 Spring Training event at Lake Washington on Wednesday. Philip Eacret drove the defending 4-Cylinder LTL champion, Miss Little Boat Electric on the sport’s most famous course. But boat owner Barry Eacret wasn’t too thrilled.
“It was an OK run, but we’re still not getting the RPMs we should,” he said. “The engine was running great. We’re happy with that totally. The hull was riding like she should, too. But we’re going to look for a different prop to see if that helps. We’ll still be right up there, but you know…it’s never enough.”
Eacret’s nephew, Austin Eacret, had the old “Tsunami” hull dancing and running faster than that hull’s ever gone. It’s dialed in, much to the delight of owner, his dad, Paul.
“She’s like a whole new boat,” Paul said. “We’ve changed pretty much everything, and Austin has it just flying.”
Two-time defending 8-Cylinder LTL champion Bud McKay made two runs in his GEICO Presents The Namron Racing Team. Both runs were flawless, I said…I mean, he said.
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Shockwave Racing: News Release
The Dustin Echols driven G-17 will compete at Firebird International Raceway this weekend as Checker Auto Parts, presented by Shockwave Racing. April 25-27 is the Trafficade presents ULHRA Racing at Firebird in Chandler AZ near Phoenix and is the season opener for the Thunderboats in the North American Challenge Cup Series.
The Shockwave team has raced with sponsorship in the Pacific NW from Schucks Auto Supply over the past 3 seasons and the addition of Checker Auto Parts for the Phoenix event expands that relationship. Checker, Schucks, Kragen and Murray's Auto Parts are all part of the CSK company with stores across the USA. The firm is headquartered in the Phoenix area and has become best known in motorsports as the Official Auto Parts Store of the National Hot Rod Association and sponsor of the Del Worsham driven Funny Car. Shockwave Racing is proud to introduce Checker Auto Parts to what we call "Racing, ULHRA Style".
Shockwave RacingSeason opener two days away!
Testing and Qualifying will be held on Friday (4-25) with racing on Saturday and Sunday as Trafficade Presents ULHRA at Firebird International Raceway. The narrow 1 1/4 race course is situated around the 1/4 mile drag boat race course and both ULHRA and the IHBA Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing Series will be competing this weekend.
ULHRA Video will have live coverage throughout the weekend here at www.ulhra.org. Because of contractural arrangements ULHRA Video can show only ULHRA racing; not the IHBA drag boats.
It's one thing to race in your home state. It's something else entirely to pack up one's "shop" and raceboat and haul it 1500 miles one-way to a race site, as was discussed in a recent Roostertales feature on this website by Muncey Racing Crew Chief Chris Drewees. Twenty ULHRA teams in three divisions are doing exactly that and for the first time outside of the state of Washington, Unlimited Lights (UL), Thunderboats (G), and Lighter than LIGHTS (LTL) will be competing at the same venue.
All eyes will be on 19 year old Kayleigh Perkins of Black Diamond WA to see if she can repeat a phenomenal first season of Unlimited Lights racing. She won the Driver's title and Rookie of the Year plus the UL-72 Miss Boat Electric team picked up their 4th Unlimited Lights Championship in 2007. The team also won the title with co-owner Phil Bononcini driving from 2000 - 2002. Leading the charge of competitors at Phoenix will be the UL-15 Graham Trucking GT-Happy Go Lucky of Jerry & Greg Hopp. The Hopp Racing Team, along with Schellhase Racing won the UL title from 2003-2006. This year Hopp Racing will field their familiar Jamie Auld hull and Schellhase Racing will also race their UL-12 Jones-Droullard hull. However with the UL-12 still being repaired from last year's Port Angeles flip, Greg & Jerry Hopp are concentrating now on the UL-15. The 12 hull is not expected to be ready to compete until July when the series moves to Chamberlain-Oacoma SD for the debut of the Pepsi Power Cup.
Watch for Paul Becker in the UL-14 Miss Critical Logic. His team had the most impressive performance at the recently concluded Spring Training test session. A second year with this hull, which won 4 times from 1999-2003 with Ohio's Randy Haas driving and is a "sister hull" to the UL-15, should result in improved performances.
It's down to cases for the UL-11 team owned by Buckley WA's Darren Bartels. The Michael Flaherty driven supercharged hydroplane team is in "thrash mode" with several items to complete before pulling out of town, hopefully Wednesday night (4-23). It looks promising. Flaherty, a 4 time winner in Unlimited Lights racing has a veteran crew led by ex UL-72 Crew Chief Scott Main and Consultant John Flaherty.
Oregon's Bob Smets enters his second season of Unlimited Lights racing with the UL-20 Smetco-Overtime. Smets was one of the first to arrive in the Phoenix area, along with Wil & Debi Muncey and the UL-00 Trafficade. For the Phoenix event the Muncey's will race their familiar "Little Boat that Could".....formerly the UL-83. Muncey is confident the smaller hull will perform quite well on the narrow race course, while retaining their 2007 acquired former UL-23 hull for the bigger course at next month's Desert Thunder II. The ex-23 hull is about 4 feet longer and at more than a foot wider.
Florida's Mike Sadlon and the UL-89 Lake Trash Apparel will be at Firebird, along with Randy Hurst in the UL-93 Desperado from Illinois. The Desperado showed last November during the Firebird ULHRA exhibition that it will be a contender on this race course. The Kennewick WA based UL-98 Miss Atomic Screen Printing with second year UL driver Charles Xaudaro will compete with the oldest hull in ULHRA racing; originally built by Ron Jones Sr. in 1974. In addition, ULHRA's first Texas based team debuts the UL-39 Rouly Heat Exchangers "Pressure's On", driven by Lakewood WA's "Smokin Joe" Souza.
An unfortunate "casualty" from Spring Training is the loss of the UL-929 for the Phoenix event. Vince "X-Man" Xaudaro and Jim & Karon Wilmot who own the hull are very encouraged by what they've seen so far, however drive line damage that occured at Spring Training couldn't be repaired in time for Phoenix. The 929 team will open the season next month at Richland WA for Desert Thunder II at Howard Amon Park, May 17th & 18th. The 929 hull is the former Thunder Valley UL-21 that launched supercharged engines in the Unlimited Lights series with driver Nick Badolato back in 2001.
For the Thunderboats series, it should be an interesting season opener. The "G" class boats are larger than Unlimited Lights and have larger, more powerful superchnarged engines which the drag boat crowd should really enjoy. Marty Wolfe in the G-93, Dustin Echols in the Checker Auto Parts G-17, David Warren in the G-329 Block Head Machine and Dick Lynch in the G-13 Tempo should provide a glimpse of the future of this growing class.
On the Lighter than LIGHTS side, two-time defending eight cylinder champion Bud McKay leads the field in the E-10 Geiko of Lakewood WA presents Namron Racing. Both 8 cylinder and 4 cylinder stock teams will be competing this weekend.
John Lynch
P.R. Director and "Voice" of ULHRA Racing
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ULHRA: Live Coverage Every
Race, Every Time.
This weekend marks the start of
ULHRA’s third full season of
“live video” coverage of
Unlimited Light Hydroplane
Racing Association events here
at
www.ulhra.org. All it takes
is a computer with a high speed
internet connection to enjoy
full coverage of every ULHRA
event. Just log on……….there’s
no charge! Details will be on
the ULHRA home page every race
weekend.
Firebird International Raceway
in Chandler AZ just outside of
Phoenix opens the UL, G & LTL
season this weekend; the
earliest ever start for ULHRA
racing and the first time the
Lighter than LIGHTS teams have
ventured outside of the state of
Washington.
This weekend’s event is being
held in conjunction with the
IHBA Lucas Oil Drag Boat Racing
Series on Firebird Lake. ULHRA
Video will provide live coverage
of all ULHRA heats of racing on
Saturday & Sunday, plus Friday
coverage of testing &
qualifying. IHBA Racing is
contracted to a cable television
network and we cannot stream
their quarter mile runs.
ULHRA live video began as did
other ULHRA “firsts”……as an
idea. In this case the idea
came from ULHRA President Joe
Frauenheim that “we should do
this”. Since most ULHRA races
are not televised it was decided
that live video streaming or
“webcasts” as they are called
could be produced. How? Who
knew? That’s where the now
retired Ed Nelson came in. Going
with little guidance beyond “you
figure it out”, Nelson did just
that and as ULHRA Video’s third
season begins, 2 years of toil,
sweat & strain by Ed, along with
tremendous volunteer efforts by
Jim & Karon Wilmot are paying
off with the best video product
we’ve yet produced. The first
time this series went live was
in 2005 at the final race of the
year, Strait Thunder at Port
Angeles WA. For those who saw
the beginning, and now see the
result, the change and growth in
the product is amazing.
See for yourself, starting this
weekend LIVE from Firebird
International Raceway.
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Living
the Dream
Thursday
running on
Lake
Washington (the Yankee stadium of our sport) for the first time in my life, not
only did I get to pit next to my favorite all-time boat as a kid, the Miss
Bardahl, I got to run on the course with her at the same time. The other
“little” boats on the course pulled off when that gorgeous green and yellow
beauty came out on the course – I tried to catch her. Now, they’re only running
the Bardahl at hull half or even quarter throttle. So that means, I had to give
the GEICO Presents the Namron Racing Team all she had (plus run inside the
course to save time – don’t ask). And let me tell you, going as slow as she was,
that was a monster wake – but it was the wake of the Miss Bardahl and I
didn’t care! It was an honor to hit that wake – I can always go to the dentist
to get new fillings after all. But when I passed the Miss Bardahl on the
backstretch heading to the floating bridge turn, I maybe 48 years old, I turned
into that little kid on the beach watching those boats of “yesteryear.” I could
hear legendary broadcaster Pat O’Day in my head. “And there goes Bud McKay in
the GEICO Presents Namron Racing Team passing the Bardahl as they head into the
final turn on Lake Washington….” And I asked anyone who came around me after
that, “Did you see me pass the Bardahl?” What a memory!
My Gecko hat off
to the volunteers at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum (http://www.thunderboats.org)
who dedicate themselves to restoring and maintaining those magical boats into
even better shape than they were when they were in their glory days. And thanks
to Chris Denslow, from NW Speedshots, for taking this
great picture above of the incredibly fast GEICO hull passing the Bardahl.
Bud McKay
Monster Truck and Hydroplanes in Phoenix
Spring Training on Lake Washington.
Spring Training was a success in most respects today on Lake Washington. Unfortunately the planned live web cast didn't occur because of internet connectivity issues. But, that's why we test......hydroplanes and webcast technology......so everything is ready for opening day. ULHRA Video was on the scene and you will see posted videos of the testing teams in the next couple of days, here at www.ulhra.org
The boat turnout was excellent. In addition to the Vintage (1955 replica) Miss Thriftway and (1962) Miss Bardahl from the Hydroplane & Raceboat Museum, six Unlimited Light hydroplanes and 3 Lighter than LIGHTS teams were on hand.
 The UL contingent was led by defending champion Kayleigh Perkins and the UL-72 Miss Boat Electric. The UL-72 took to the water twice and brought back Kayleigh with a big grin. The UL-72 is ready for the long haul to Firebird.
Vince Xaudaro in his new ride, the UL-929 with Wilmot Racing was on hand testing their recently upgraded hull and engine combination. The freshly painted UL-929 completed a lap and half before carburetor issues started complicate things. The UL-929 was towed in for a second time when the boat experienced a broken shaft log.
 Paul Becker in the UL-14 Miss Critical Logic was among the teams testing. Experienced driver Paul Becker managed to keep his boat and crew in tip top shape during testing. The boat showed no signs of complications and Paul Becker showed no signs of slowing down.
In addition, Jerry Hopp brought out the UL-15 Graham Trucking-Happy Go Lucky for display. The 15 hull is their thirty two race winning hull built in 1997.
 Two boats came from the same team; Muncey Racing. Both are numbered UL-00 with Wil Muncey driving. The former UL-83 of Muncey Racing, and the former UL-23 previously campaigned by Ohio's Bob Larimore comprise the Muncey "fleet" and at each race they will select which UL-00 to enter. The smaller of the two boats will be at Phoenix for the season opener next week and the larger hull will be at Richland WA next month. The “little red” UL-00 hit the water first. Due to complication of a fuel pump, it was towed back to the docks. Then “big red” UL-00 was unable to test the course when a hatch leak was noticed by driver Wil Muncey. Minor problems for the Muncey Racing team who are recognized for their drive and great crew.
 Rounding out the UL field of testing teams was the "new" UL-3 of Chris Grant. This boat has been completed over the last year by Grant's team. Construction was originally started by Terry Troxell back in the 90's from a tandem wing design by Ron Jones Sr.
On the LTL side, test runs were conducted by 2 time defending eight cylinder stock champion Bud McKay in the E-10 Geiko of Lakewood presents Namron Racing, along with the S-6 Lil' Miss Boat Electric which will be raced this year by Phillip Eacret, and the S-36 to be raced by Austin Eacret. Kevin Eacret will be driving the E-36 in LTL competition and also is slated to be the backup driver for the UL-8 Boat Trader.com.
Next for these and other ULHRA teams is final packing for the long trek to Phoenix AZ. ULHRA opens the 2008 racing season next weekend, April 25-27 at Firebird International Raceway at Chandler AZ. For the first time, UL, Thunderboats (G) and Lighter than LIGHTS (LTL) will all be competing at the same event; Trafficade presents ULHRA at Firebird.
The following weekend a select group of ULHRA teams will conduct an exhibition at Pickwick Landing TN, May 3rd & 4th. The second points race on the ULHRA 2008 schedule will be Desert Thunder II at Howard Amon Park in Richland WA on May 17th & 18th.
John Lynch and Melissa Davidson contributed to this report.
RCL MOTORSPORTS
Promotions / Public Relations: Thayer Cueter
Phone: (206) 618-7232
Email: eventsinter@aol.com
Larry Garcia returns to ULHRA Racing!
RCL Motorsports purchases the GP-50
EVERETT, WA – Today, it has been confirmed. The announcement made by RCL Motorsports that they have left Grand Island, NY and heading to Seattle with the newly purchased UL-99 in tow.
Ken Brodie of Grand Island, NY and former owner of the GP-50 met with Larry Garcia and his family to make the deal early today. “ I would like to thank Ken for all his help, generosity and hospitality these past two months and we look forward to an uneventful return trip back to Everett, WA.” says Larry.
Larry Garcia is out of Everett, WA. He currently works at Boeing. He is the previous owner / driver of the E-41, The Joker Hydroplane. After a four-year hiatus he and his two children, Connor and Veronica are eager to get back to racing.
RCI Motorsports will prepare for the 2009-racing season as the UL-99 with some possible testing this summer. Dates will be announced. If you’re interested in being a crewmember for RCI Motorsports please contact: Larry Garcia: rclmotorsports@clearwire.net.
BOAT STATISTICS: Length: 24.5 ft. Width: 11 ft. Tunnel: 64”
Weight with engine: 2,700 lbs.
HULL HISTORY: This hull was last raced in 2005 at Evansville and Valleyfield. The boat was completely rebuilt in 2006 by Matt Arlt with Jamie Auld's input. The hull has new decks, bottom, cowling, and new frames throughout with Jamie Auld composite sponsons.
ENGINE BUILDER: Glen Davis / George Woods
ENGINE: 468 c.i. Supercharged Chevrolet
Foster Kids and Fast Boats at Firebird
Hopp Racing; major sponsors for the 2008-racing season
Graham Trucking and Happy Go Lucky return as Primary sponsors of the UL-15, driven by Greg & Jerry Hopp. The team won the Unlimited Lights National Championship 4 consecutive years; from 2003 through 2006 and also established a kilometer straight-a-way record at 161.980 mph.
Hopp Racing has also added a new secondary sponsor, PumpTech Inc. from Moses Lake, Washington for the ULHRA events at Richland WA (May 17 & 18) and Tri-Cities WA (July 25-27).
PumpTech supplies high quality water pumps for well and pump stations. They also install and service the pumps for industrial use and municipality markets. They are very excited to have their name on the yellow Hopp Racing hydroplane. Their hull began racing in 1997 under different ownership and won 12 times. Hopp Racing has added 20 victories with this hull for a total of 32 career wins; the most in UL history. Greg Hopp leads all UL drivers with 17 career victories. Jerry Hopp stands 5th in career victories with 7.
The Graham Trucking-Happy Go Lucky UL-15 will test at Spring Training on Thursday, April 17th at Stan Sayres pits on Lake Washington from 11:00am till 2:00pm. Several Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association, Inc. teams will be there preparing for the season opener at Firebird Lake near Phoenix Arizona, April 25-27.
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2008 Contingency Award Program unveiled
See some of the Sponsors who support the Unlimited Light hydroplanes
American Racing Headers
Atomic Screenprinting
Bullet Camshafts
Corsa Data Acquisition
Goodridge
Great Gazebo
John's Fuel Systems & Carburation
Johnson Oil Pumps
Joie of Seating
Nordskog Instruments
Patriot Performance
Performance Distributors
Power Punch
RH2 Radios
Totally Stainless
For more information click on SPONSORS
They’re getting ready for the Pepsi Racing Power Cup Challenge presented by River City Racin’
This first year event will be at Chamberlain-Oacoma, South Dakota where Interstate 90 crosses the Missouri River, July 12 & 13.
 
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Sponsor Increases Participation
As the circuit of the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association grows, so does the appeal and interest to sponsors. The Pickwick Challenge at Pickwick Landing, Tennessee to be held May 2nd, 3rd and 4th is a good example.
“Lake Trash’s target marketing area is from Michigan to North Carolina and Missouri to Florida.” Said Water Gear, Inc. CEO Ricky Treadway, ”Although we partnered with the ULHRA in order to promote the Lake Trash Apparel (LTA) brand and expand that, it’s great that we are also able to maintain our existing markets.” As the Official Apparel of the ULHRA , LTA is stepping up to contribute financially to the production of the Exhibition in the Volunteer State.
The Pickwick Challenge may also be the first ULHRA event that will see LTA’s new vending trailer on site distributing Official ULHRA apparel in addition to their own quality merchandise. “We are very excited about helping to create and distribute the casual wear that will represent the ULHRA.” Treadway went on, ”This is a new aspect to their merchandising that we are glad to help with.”
Teams are scheduled to travel to Pickwick from across the country. From Washington State to Florida and from Texas to Illinois. Marty Wolfe, driver of the Trafficade Presents Desperado Unlimited Light hydroplane said, “We are excited to be a part of bringing ULHRA hydroplane racing to a new part of the country. It has been thirty years since there has been hydroplane racing on the Tennessee River. The Johnson-Wolfe Racing Team would love to make Pickwick Landing a regular stop on the circuit.” Marty’s sister, Elizabeth will be sharing drivers duties this season for the team that hails from Illinois.
With perhaps the shortest distance to travel, Mike Sadlon will be bringing the LTA sponsored Unlimited Light hydroplane up from it’s home base in Vero Beach, Florida. On the other hand, long distances haven’t deterred Mike in the past. Over the last several seasons, he has campaigned his UL as far away as Valleyfield, Quebec and Seattle, Washington. “Lake Trash can bring a lot to the party, both figuratively and literally.” Mike said, “ Most people don’t realize that in addition to an excellent line of leisure wear, Lake Trash provides a nationally organized program of social activities that enables people to share their passion for water born activities.”
The other half of the Johnson-Wolfe Racing Team, Dennis Johnson said, “ Having Lake Trash Apparel step up to be the Presenting sponsor of the ULHRA portion of the Pickwick Challenge is the kind of signal that indicates the growing support for marine motorsports. In addition to providing inexpensive fun for the family at the beach, it also is a good platform for promoting products and services. It’s encouraging to see LTA participate in such thorough way.”
John Lynch, Director of Public Relations for the ULHRA elaborated upon Johnsons statement with,” Pickwick is the next step in the vision of an expanding ULHRA circuit. LTA is the type of partner that has a national posture and is willing to share that vision.”
For more information go to www.laketrash.com
Waves and Radios
The Chief Referee looks out through his sunglasses down on to the race course. Three Unlimited Lights are within a boat length of each other contending for first place in the final heat. With two laps into the heat, he notices that another boat has lost power for some reason and come to a stop in an inside lane at the far end of the race course at the apex of the corner. With binoculars pressed against his Vedalo HD's he studies the stricken craft for signs of concern. "If the boat is simply disabled" he says to himself, "there is no need for concern. The oncoming boats can easily steer around it. However, if the driver has a medical need the SAR team needs to render aid and it will compromise the competition."
From the Judges' tower two stories in the air, he glances down the shoreline to the two scissors-lifts that act as robotic "tree forts". These platforms propel each team's radio operators twenty feet into the air during the race so that they can maintain line of sight communication with their respective teammates flying the boats around the race course. The Chief Referee has a representative on each platform within radio contact. That representative can speak directly with any team's radio operator.
Although only five seconds have passed since he noticed the boat dead in the water, the three boats are approaching its position at speeds in excess of one hundred and forty miles an hour. As the Chief Referee knows from seasons of experience, things can go from bad to worse in a hurry on a race course. Pressing down the button on his earphone he speaks into his boom mike and asks one of his sky borne assistants, "Mark, would you ask Sara to ask her driver to turn on his strobe light so that we know that he is O.K.?" His request is acknowledged less than ten seconds later by a bright blinking light atop the stationary hydroplane. And the race goes on.
It has been argued that radio communication to the competitors has been the most decisive difference toward making motorsports safer in the last thirty years. RH 2 or Nitroradios.com has stepped up to become one of the latest Contingency Award Program (CAP) sponsors. Part of this arrangement includes the provision and maintenance of some of the radio equipment used by the officials and volunteers that make the ULHRA races happen. As the example offered above clearly demonstrates, a feature always needed but easily overlooked.
Brad Smith of RH2 said, "Marine motorsports has an especially demanding need for effective communication with competitors. The added dimension of sinking places an even more urgent emphasis on rendering aid."
It has also been maintained that the use of radios has made racing more competitive and expanded the participation of the team. A teammate on a scissors lift can convey tactical information to the driver that can enhance a competitive situation. Brad went on to say, "We use what we sell. Our gear is track tested by our staff every weekend, with test vehicles from a NASCAR Modified to an Alcohol Dragster. RH2 and Nitro Radios attends more than 100 events annually in the US, Canada and Mexico."
ULHRA General Manager, Pat Malara said, "It's great to have an organization as capable as RH2 onboard. I know that the individual racing teams will appreciate the access to the expertise. Maybe even more important is the fact that our race teams and volunteers will have the addition of the expert experience in maintenance and new technology from a first class company like RH2 and Nitroradios."
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Wyatts Watch Award Continues and Expands
CONTACT: MUNCEY MARKETING
360-805-0805
Jim and Cathy Keppler, owners of Wyatt's Diamond Jewelers announced today that the Washington business will return for the third consecutive year as the Official Time Piece of the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association.
This program began in the 2006 season as Wyatt's Diamond Jewelers, already a sponsor of Muncey Racing, expanded their involvement to include the entire organization. At each and every ULHRA racing event, the driver who is determined to have made the best start of the weekend, is presented with a fine Wyatts Watch. As any hydroplane racer will tell you, accurately predicting the timing for hitting the starting line at the precise moment of the race start may well set the pace for the rest of the heat. And what better way to acknowledge the driver's sense of timing than the presentation of a fine time piece!
For 2008, all ULHRA hydroplane classes will be eligible for the prestigious award. There will be one watch presented at each race but in 2008 it may be presented to an Unlimited Light (UL) driver, or a Thunderboats (G) driver or to a Lighter-than-LIGHTS (LTL) driver. Originally the classic men's watch worked out well but when Kayleigh Perkins won the award in 2007 it created the need to have both a men's and women's version. This year there are several female drivers in the Lighter-than-LIGHTS Series along with Ms. Perkins in the UL72 Boat Electric and UL-93 Desparado back-up driver, Elizabeth Wolfe in the Unlimited Lights.
Jim Keppler said, "Boat racing was Seattle's first real sport, and continues to be the sport systemic to Seattle. As a Northwest business owner, I am proud to continue my involvement with the Unlimited Lights organization." The family-owned store which just recently relocated to new facilities at 14751 North Kelsey Street in Monroe, Washington was named after their grandson, Wyatt. Keppler went on to say, "The races are a fun and exciting place where I can bring my family and my grandson, Wyatt, to spend time with the ULHRA racing family."
The watch has become one of the most coveted awards in UL racing, and Wyatts Diamond Jewelers provides free customized engraving on the back of the watch to memorialize the date and race that the accomplishment was recognized. Wyatts Diamond Jewelers also sponsors the 8 cylinder Lighter-than-LIGHT hydroplane which will be driven by Chris Dreewes, also of Monroe. This year Dreewes will be competing with a new hull after last year's entry was destroyed in the Silver Thunder race in Silverdale, Washington. The Wyatts-sponsored hydroplane is always a community favorite at the Evergreen State Fair Parade in September.
For more information on Wyatts Diamond Jewelers and their fine watches, please visit www.wyattswatches.com. For more information on the 2008 Unlimited Light racing circuit and the Lighter-than-LIGHTS racing class, visit www.ulhra.org.
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Spring Training just ahead!
Five Unlimited Light Hydroplanes along with three Lighter than LIGHTS teams and two vintage hydroplanes will keep the waters of Lake Washington busy for three hours on Thursday, April 17th. It’s ULHRA’s annual Spring Training test session, in conjunction with the Hydroplane & Raceboat Museum, and Seafair.
 Leading the way in this test session will be 19 year old Kayleigh Perkins of Black Diamond WA driving the UL-72 Miss Boat Electric. In 2007 as a rookie in Unlimited Lights racing, Ms. Perkins became the first woman to win in Unlimited Lights’ racing. She also earned the 2007 Drivers Title and Rookie of the Year while drawing a huge fan following. Perkins, along with the rest of the attending ULHRA fleet will be getting set for the season opener for ULHRA teams. That occurs just 8 days later, April 25 – 27 near Phoenix AZ at Firebird International Raceway.
Spring Training will be held at the Stan Sayres Pit Area on Lake Washington at Seattle. Joining the  UL-72 team will be a new collaboration; a melding of two teams as Vince “X-Man” Xaudaro tests his “new” UL-929. Xaudaro, from Bellevue WA has teamed with Jim & Karon Wilmot and their UL-21 hull from Issaquah WA for a new assault for the top rung of the Unlimited Lights ladder. Xaudaro’s previous ride, the “all black, all the time” UL-929 was knocked out of competition in a spectacular crash last August that ripped away both sponsons. Xaudaro says his veteran hull will return to competition but not till 2009. At the time of the accident Xaudaro was leading the Unlimited Lights points race. Since his UL series debut in 2001 Xaudaro, a native of Kennewick WA, has finished 2nd or 3rd in High Points three times.
 Wil Muncey is another driver looking to make a strong move in the series point standings. The son of hydroplane racing legend Bill Muncey, Wil enters his third full season of Unlimited Lights racing with Muncey Racing’s UL-00 Trafficade with two years of 8th place finishes in Driver Points. Last year’s performance level of the team stepped up, but mechanical reliability suffered just a bit plus Muncey had 3 violent spins in the smaller hull. Hardware improvements and the addition of the  second, larger hull has the competitive fire in Muncey burning even hotter in 2008. This year the team has two hulls from which to choose, on a race to race basis. The Muncey team will be testing both hulls at Spring Training; their familiar ex UL-83 dubbed ”The Little Boat that Could” and their 2007 acquisition, the former UL-23 Pegasus last campaigned by J.W. Myers in 2002. The 25 foot hull will be used on the bigger courses this season, including the Ted Jones race course at Seattle in August and at the second race of the season, Desert Thunder II, May 17 & 18 at Richland WA. The smaller hull will open the season at Phoenix.
 Rounding out the Unlimited Lights testing fleet will be the new team of Buckley, Washington’s Darren Bartels. The UL-11 Miss Executif III, a supercharged hydroplane which was a winning and  record setting Grand Prix hull back east, will be driven in 2008 by Michael Flaherty of Bonney Lake WA, a 4 time Unlimited Lights race winner. Flaherty is joined by his father and Technical Advisor John Flaherty, and Crew Chief Scott Main. All 3 worked together when Michael won four events driving the UL-72 in 2005 and 2006 and they know what it takes to successfully compete in ULHRA.
 On the Lighter than LIGHTS side 3 teams will be on hand, including 2 time defending LTL 8 cylinder stock champion Bud McKay and his E-10 Geico Insurance/Namron Racing Team entry. McKay will be joined by two teams from owners Barry and Paul Eacret, the S-6 Lil’ Miss Boat Electric and the S-36, both in the 4 cylinder stock category.
 Two vintage Unlimiteds will also be testing: the restored 1962 Miss Bardahl to be driven by owner Dixon Smith, and the Vashon built 1955 replica Miss Thriftway.
Pits open at 8:00am. Boats will go into the water starting at 10:30am and testing will commence at 11:00am, ending at 2:00pm per regulations. The event is sanctioned by the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association, Inc. and the public is invited to attend. Parking restrictions will be enforced.
John Lynch
P.R. Director and “Voice” of ULHRA Racing.
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Ask any fan…….
Ask any fan and the first thing that they will tell you that they notice about a hydroplane engine are the headers or exhaust system. In fact more often than not it is the only engine feature that a fan sees on the race course. In this respect, marine motorsports of the hydroplane kind presents a decisive marketing benefit to header manufacturers. Not even NASCAR can demonstrate the sound and function of a thundering set of ‘pipes’ as effectively as hydroplanes. Hence the appropriate term of “Thunderboats”.
In addition to this, headers are a decisive way to enhance or create horsepower. The people at American Racing Headers ( www.AmericanRacingHeaders.com) not only recognize the excellent marketing platform that hydroplane racing provides to promote their type of product, but also are aware that this sport can be a point of sale.
Toward that end, American has taken their Contingency Award Program (CAP) sponsorship very seriously. Nick Fillipides has been working with Unlimited Light racing teams to produce the tooling needed to make stainless steel big block and small block hydroplane headers. “Making the fixture or jig for the production of a hydroplane set of headers is a painstaking process. Sometimes it resembles art more than craft.” Nick said. He went on to say,” Hydroplane racing has its own special set of considerations such as a need for stainless because of the salt water races in San Diego or Port Angeles or the caustic aspect of the water in Phoenix.”
Not one to cut corners, the driver and crew chief for Scribner Racing Joe Souza arranged to have American Racing Headers create the tooling for the big block he will be campaigning in his Texas based Unlimited Light. “These guys have a lot of experience that we can use to make our boat go faster.” Joe said, “Their attention to detail is very encouraging “. Bob Scribner said,” There are some things that you don’t compromise about and horsepower is one of them.”
For more information about ARH call 631-608-1986.
Hopp Racing Repairs, Part 4
Vacuum bagging the deck repair. We have Brent, Tim, Shana, Katrina. Greg and Aaron left sponson repair. Also Greg and his son's Saxon and Peyton helping out.
Bondo work and bagging the engine bay Randy and
Bob D. Painting the engine bay Jerry.
Priming crew doing their job. Brent, Randy, Greg
and Jerry
The paint team headed by The Ancient One Jerry with the spray gun and Greg and Brent helping out, the primer, yellow base and clear are applied. Jerry gives the task a thumbs up. For the fun of it we kept track of the man-hours for the repair. 435 hours, at a beer an hour that's $1,000. Would like to thank all the time put in by our team, Greg, Brent, Randy, Bob Donley, Tim, Shana, Travis, Aaron, Bill Niedermeyer, Jay and Katrina.
Just when we thought it was done and putting boat back on the trailer, Greg spots some fuzzy stuff on the bottom of the boat. Two small cracks with Firebird Lake growing out of them. A little bit of grinding and we come up with a 2 foot hole through the bottom of the boat. Will it ever end. See everyone at the races.
Jerry Hopp
Hopp Racing
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Trafficade and Muncey Racing to Partner
CONTACT: MUNCEY MARKETING
360-805-0805
Muncey Racing announced today a new team sponsor for the 2008 ULHRA racing circuit. Both of the team's bright red Unlimited Light Hydroplanes will compete on the national circuit as the UL-00 Trafficade Racing Team, beginning with Trafficade's hometown race at Firebird International Raceways April 25-27.
Barricades, pedestrian fencing, warning light systems and personal safety equipment are some of the items that Trafficade sells. Add to that the ability to create custom signage that the average person might see such as "Stop", "No Parking", or "Maple Avenue" and you have a big part of the reasoning behind Trafficade's recent decision to promote sales nationally.
Headquartered in the Phoenix area, Trafficade determined that marine motorsports not only represents a market for their products , but can actually demonstrate the features and benefits of Trafficade products and services to other potential customers such as communities, businesses and festival organizers. Since Trafficade representative Dennis Johnson was born and raised in the original Motor City, Detroit, it wasn't a surprise when they decided to use motorsports as a method to promote sales. He and his son, Jeff founded the company over eighteen years ago.
Muncey is another name that hailed from the Motor City. Moving to the Pacific Northwest from Detroit, the Muncey family made motorsports their livelihood. Most recently, Wil and Debi Muncey have been campaigning on the circuit of the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association (ULHRA) with their Unlimited Light class hydroplane. Entering their fourth year racing on the ULHRA circuit, they have seen their experience base and commitment level grow exponentially. Making every race and exhibition over the last two seasons regardless of setback or schedule, the Muncey Racing team has managed to continue to leverage their sponsors consistently onto the marine motorsport stage.
That level of demonstrated determination is one of the primary reasons that Johnson chose Muncey Racing to represent Trafficade's efforts to expand sales onto the national stage. "Trafficade has an established reputation for quality products and service," said Dennis Johnson. "We feel confident that Muncey Racing will help effectively project that feature into the national arena."
"It's very helpful that our sponsor was way ahead of the curve in using motorsports to advertise." said UL-00 co-owner, Debi Muncey. "More and more companies recognize the benefits of using something that is honestly exciting to create and maintain brand awareness."
"We have many new products and services that we intend to announce over the coming season" Johnson went on, "Hydroplanes are just the kind of rolling billboards that will create the unique impression in our marketplace that we want."
Wil Muncey will pilot the smaller of the team's two UL hydros at Firebird International Raceways near Phoenix and again at an Unlimited Light exhibition event on May 2-4 in Pickwick Landing, Tennessee. When the Unlimited Light circuit returns to the Pacific Northwest with Desert Thunder in Richland, Washington on May 17-18, it will be Muncey's first time racing the newly acquired 25-foot hull, formerly known as the Pegasus UL-23 and previously campaigned by Ohio's Bob Larimore. Wil Muncey said, "The 2008 racing program has filled out nicely with eight races, Spring Training and an Exhibition, and promises to deliver a great show on the water for racing fans. I am thrilled to be a part of it and honored to be sponsored by and representing such a long time racing enthusiast as Dennis Johnson and the Trafficade company."
For more information on Trafficade products, please visit www.Trafficade.com.
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AND HE’S BACK!
CONTACT: MUNCEY MARKETING
360-805-0805
n some of the most exciting news to come out of Unlimited Light hydroplane racing in a long time, Schellhase/Hopp Racing announce a new addition to the formidable team. 
Evans will be sharing the ride with Greg Hopp who with 17 wins, is the winningest driver in UL racing. Says Evans, "I've got my Drivers physical; I'm updating my capsule training, and I guess I will be hanging out with you guys this season!"
N. Mark Evans, the older of the two 'Evans brothers' was first introduced into the world of racing by his Unlimited Hydroplane driving father, Norm Evans. Going fast and turning left all started for Mark in 1965 at the age of eight in rural Eastern Washington riding snowmobiles, then four years later on an oval ice track. Mark's first Unlimited hydroplane ride came in 1979, but opportunities were few and far between. Finally in 1991 he got the call he was waiting for. Ron Jones, Jr. wanted Mark to drive the U-50 American Spirit. "We went to the Indiana Governor's cup in Madison and won our first race," said Evans. "Not bad for a couple of goof balls."
Evans was finally getting to do what he called some "serious racing" and continued with the America's Spirit team until the end of the 1992 season. Mark went on to drive the famous Miss Budweiser in 1995 and 1996, before moving to the Pico American Dream in 1997, racking up nine impressive race wins, including the famous "flip & win". Never before in the history of Unlimited racing had a driver flipped a boat upside down and come back to win the race, all on the same day.
Mark's great sense of humor and charismatic personality landed him the position of race commentator for ESPN's 2001-2001 coverage of the racing season. In 2002 Evans provided color commentary for Seafair coverage by the CBS affiliate, KIRO-TV, and at ULHRA races in Issaquah, Kamsack, Saskatchewan and Tri Cities, Washington.
In 2003, the press release read: "Budweiser's Thunder on the Ohio Race fans...its 10 to the 5... and Evans will drive the new Miss Llumar Window."
Mark Evans finished second in the Indiana Governor's Cup and first in the Tri-Cities Columbia Cup in 2003. Then it appeared the racing career of Mark Evans might end unhappily. While competing for the Gold Cup in Detroit in 2003, Llumar Window Film did a 360-degree flip on the backstretch of lap #2 during Heat 3A. Mark's injuries were quite serious. He suffered a broken right leg, a fractured vertebra and blood clots. From his hospital bed, he learned that brother Mitch had won the race.
In the years since his accident, Mark had kept his options open about returning to competition. Still a fan favorite with demonstrated skill in front of a camera, with a microphone, or sponsor's representative, Mark remains one of racing's best ambassadors.
  Bob Schellhase, owner of the UL-12 Unlimited Light hydroplane said, "Greg Hopp has done a fantastic job of consistently putting my boat into the Winner's Circle, but as he continues to also drive for a turbine team, Greg isn't always available. Mark Evans brings that same level of expertise in his driving ability and understanding of the racing equipment. Plus with Evans' announcing, spokesperson and on-camera experience, Mark brings a new dimension to our ability to serve our sponsor on and off the water."
For more information on the Unlimited Light Hydroplane racing circuit, visit www.ulhra.org.
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Out of Sight, Out of Mind
One of the best and worst parts of hydroplane racing is the fact that it is very creative. Fabrication and ingenuity are coin of the realm. There is no manual for a race boat. There isn’t even a local dealer you can talk to for advice or a repair shop for pointers. A majority of the problem solving and development is done the old fashioned way: scratch your head and go to the drawing board.
Some teams revel and excel in this kind of environment. Creating enhanced performance or solving performance problems is a mission that a team tackles with both hands. One thing is for certain, you don’t want to have to do it again. Fasteners and fastening systems have to stay that way-fastened. Unfortunately, the marine motorsport arena is notorious for either shaking things loose or corroding them away. Especially in a salt water venue, the ability to get below decks and literally oxidize parts and fasteners is what keeps crew chiefs, drivers and owners awake at night.
Enter Totally Stainless from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. With a healthy selection of stainless steel fasteners and components, Doc Hemmett has produced a one stop shop at www.totallystainless@com that can secure almost any fabricator’s stainless needs. A hard copy catalog is also available.
One of the disappointments in locating stainless is the fact that often the steel is stainless but the grade in Rockwell hardness won’t stand up properly to the stresses of marine motorsports. Once again, Totally Stainless can address the need. “Not only do we carry U.S. and metric fasteners in a wide range of styles” says Doc, “but also ARP grade-8 stainless steel bolts and our own exclusive line of high grade stainless.”
Marine motorsports demands that the team use whatever technology they can find to get the job done. One of the services that Totally Stainless offers is locating the hard to find stainless items from many different manufacturers. Doc went on to say, “We can locate all sorts of neat stainless hardware such as pipe fittings, cable, etc.”
Very often some of the most creative and important work that a team does is below decks. During construction a lot of thought, effort and energy go into installing systems and components that will literally never see the light of day again. Once it’s built, it needs to stay that way. Steering systems are classic examples. Pulleys, cables and their fasteners are usually hard to access and inspect however they are the primary system in any craft. In the spirit that created the Contingency Awards Program, Totally Stainless is providing as a CAP sponsor the kind of support and mutual benefit that is the hallmark of the ULHRA.
Wil Muncey
Date changed for Spring Training.
Due to new regulations implemented by the U.S. Coast Guard, ULHRA's Spring Training date on Lake Washington has been changed. The new date will be Thursday, April 17th with boats on the water from 11:00am till 2:00pm. The Stan Sayers Pits will open for teams at 8:00am and boats will be put in the water starting at 10:30am.
Unlimited Light (UL), Thunderboat (G) and Lighter than LIGHTS (LTL) teams will be testing on April 17th along with the 1955 Miss Thriftway and the 1962 Miss Bardahl from the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum.
This test session occurs just 8 days prior to the ULHRA season opening Trafficade presents ULHRA at Firebird International Raceway near Phoenix, AZ, April 25-27.
Spring Training is a presentation of the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association, Inc. H&RM, and Seafair, Inc. The test session is sanctioned by ULHRA.
The public is welcome to attend however strict parking restrictions will be enforced.
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I t's Nearly Time to Hit the Road
Now all travel either race-related, business, or leisure can be arranged thru the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association.
This program is open to all ULHRA members, sponsors and fans.
For leisure and business travel, or travel to and from race sites, please contact Travel Resources Unlimited at 866-658-8698 (toll free) and be sure to mention ULHRA.
For race rooms call Cheri Wright at 866-595-RACE or 866-595-7223 (toll free).
As the world's largest hotel chain, with over 4,100 hotels in 80 countries, Best Western is everywhere you want to go. They feature and guarantee a collection of amenities, such as hot or continental breakfast, free high-speed internet access, free local calls and a pool at most locations.
Best Western loves the ULHRA and vice-versa.. Two Unlimited Light hydroplanes will be on display at Best Western Operations Center in Phoenix prior to Trafficade Presents the Unlimited Lights at Firebird International Raceways. Firebird Raceways has made discounted tickets available to Best Western employees who want to come to the track and cheer for their favorite UL team.
If Travel Resources cannot book you at a Best Western, Theresa Mueller will help you wherever you want to stay, and also help with airfare and car rental.
Best Western appreciates your business. Again, for vacation and business travel outside of racing, contact Travel Resources Unlimited at 866-658-8698 (toll free) and be sure to mention ULHRA. For race rooms call 866-595-RACE (866-595-7223) toll free.
For more information regarding the ULHRA travel program, contact: Muncey Marketing at 360-805-0805.
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Reliability Matters
Hurtling up the front chute past the Judges Stand, two Unlimited Lights are deck to deck approaching speeds in excess of one hundred and forty miles per hour. So close together, the two automotive powered engines thunder together in one roar. With roostertail’s cascading into the air and sponsons tap dancing over the waves the two drivers commit their boats into the corner simultaneously. Immediately, skid fins channel walls of water into sheets of spray arcing twenty feet into the air.
With lateral G forces so extreme, some drivers are challenged to turn their heads at this point. In this case the load is so severe it is more than the rudder can bear, breaking off at the post and sending the inside boat into a spin. Eye witnesses in the Search and Rescue boat (SAR) near the entrance pin said that the transom of the boat swapped around and went into the water hard enough that the tips of the vertical stabilizers disappeared under water bringing the boat to a very abrupt and immediate stop.
Although suffering a concussion, the driver scrambles out of the cockpit and onto the deck to secure the proffered tow line from the quick acting SAR boat. The hydroplane is rapidly taking on water over the transom and will sink if not brought underway promptly. Frantically attaching the line, SAR bends to the task and begins tugging the crippled craft back to the crane to be slung to the safety and waiting arms of crew and pit area.
Sputter, sputter, stop….. “Why did you stop?” the hydroplane driver asks the SAR boat driver. As slack collects in the line between the two boats and the Strait of Juan de Fuca continues to fill the bilge of the race boat, the SAR boat driver responds with, “I didn’t. It did “, pointing at the outboard powerplant. While the SAR team scrambles to locate the propulsion problem, the hydroplane driver says out loud to no one in particular, “I think that I am having a bad day.”
The outboard powerplant that the ULHRA chooses to render aid with its Search and Rescue team has to be of the highest caliber. Simply stated in a worse case scenario, it can be a matter of life and death. The situation listed above actually happened and only came to a happy conclusion due to the prowess and tenacity that has become the trademark of the ULHRA SAR team. Shortly after this enlightening episode, Phil Bononcini of the UL 72 racing team volunteered for the task of shepherding the efforts and volunteers of the ULHRA to find a better powerplant. Several months of research and discussion with three different outboard manufacturers finally determined which engine would be the Official Outboard Powerplant of the ULHRA.
Dean Corbisier of Suzuki Marine said,” We are delighted to be able to provide a product that can meet the needs of such an important task.” Dean went on to say,” I am proud to announce that Suzuki Marine will join the ULHRA as the “Official Outboard” of the Search and Rescue team during the 2008 season.”
Local Suzuki dealers will be available to lend expertise in installation and related advice. Suzuki Marine is a well-established organization demonstrating an attitude of public benefit and responsibility by making their resources available to national organizations such as the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association. Phil Bononcini went on to say, ”We at the ULHRA, are thrilled to have Suzuki Marine as our “Official Outboard” for our rescue team. Their reputation for reliability and performance makes Suzuki Marine the best choice for this important role.”
For more information about Suzuki Marine go to www.suzukimarine.com
By the Seat of Your Pants.
In the words of one of the greatest car drivers of all time, Sterling Moss “ a driver drives by the seat of his pants.” Everything that Randy La Joie has learned about competition seats he has learned the same way. A formidable competitor in his own right on the asphalt, Randy took the education gleaned from the race track by virtue of blood, sweat and tears and has integrated it into one of the safest seat designs in motorsports.
Drawing on the technical support of his associates at his business entitled The Joie of Seating, Randy has taken his winning NASCAR experience to lead his company to cutting edge production standards and is consulting with Unlimited Light hydroplane racing teams to attempt to develop the safest seat on the water. Already providing that type of product to the Offshore community, his company is nestled in the heart of NASCAR country, Concord, North Carolina. A two time Busch Series champion, Randy recognizes the need to get the best information directly from the source. Unfamiliar with the special circumstances affecting a hydroplane cockpit, his team had to make unusual design adjustments to allow for the escape hatch in the floor of the cockpit. Chris Dreewes, an Unlimited Light Crew Chief and LTL driver worked closely with Randy to convey the unique needs and concerns. “ Originally, it was a challenge to convey to Randy the limitations of possibly being underwater, inverted and on pressurized air. Couple that with the fact that we have a long air line to bring with us through the escape hatch and the clearances involving the seat become pretty important.”
“Everyone at The Joie of Seating is striving to create the safest hydroplane seat.” Said Randy, “ In consideration of the high lateral “g” loads experienced by the average hydroplane driver, this is an excellent challenge. Relatively speaking, the existing hydroplane seat designs leave a lot to be desired.” Using aluminum as the primary medium of construction, La Joie seats replicate or exceed the strength of plastic seats without the substantial weight penalty. Attention to detail is another trademark often overlooked. The fact that many hydroplane seats require a 40 degree back angle is a considerable departure from the traditional 30 degrees seen in most automotive applications.
Although the market represented by the ULHRA circuit in North America doesn’t represent a lot of potential unit sales compared to NASCAR, the crucible of competition on an Unlimited Light race course is an undeniable testament to quality. Participating as a Contingency Awards Sponsor ( CAP ) sponsor for the 2008 season will not only demonstrate product but help keep drivers that much safer.
For more information about The Joie of Seating go to www.thejoieofseating.com or call 704-795-7474 .
"New & Improved" UL-8 Boat Trader.com at Tacoma Dome Boat Show.
 The UL-8 Boat Trader.com owned by Bob & Kathleen Baker was a hit at the recently concluded Tacoma Dome Boat Show in Tacoma WA, south of Seattle. The team enters the 2008 season with new equipment and a pair of new drivers. Kip Brown will be the lead driver. Kip is a very experienced limited racer with a particular emphasis in the Superstock and ProStock runabout classes. Brown is he nephew of retired Unlimited driver and current U-17 owner Nate Brown and will be pulling double duty as he succeeds his uncle behind the wheel of the U-17.
 When Kip is unavailable his backup driver, Kevin Eacret will take the controls. Kevin will become the 14th "graduate" from ULHRA's Lighter than LIGHTS (LTL) series to move into Unlimited Lights class.
The UL-8 is a tandem wing hull, originally designed by Ron Jones Sr, and powered by a 468 cubic inch supercharged V-8 engine. The hull as well as the engine program has undergone extensive upgrades in the offseason.
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Click here for updates from March 2008
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