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THUNDERBOATS TITLE UP FOR GRABS AT STRAIT THUNDER

Yes, Strait Thunder presented by Victoria Express is “Where Champions are Crowned” and for the first full season of ULHRA’s Thunderboat (G) Class, that too is the case. Heading into the final race of the season, Dustin Echols and the G-17 Venture Bank holds the lead but in the volatile Thunderboat G-Class virtually no lead is safe.

Up to 1640 points are available this weekend (October 4^th & 5^th) for the Thunderboats. That accounts for 4 heats of racing (400 points for each heat win) plus qualifying points (10% of heat points),

The Shockwave Racing Team has been to each ULHRA race in 2008. The actual Thunderboat races were held at Phoenix, Richland, Chamberlain-Oacoma and Polson however the G-17 also participated at Tri Cities and Seattle and Silverdale to demonstrate the Thunderboat program. In addition the Shockwave team has participated in multiple APBA events including last weekend in Chelan WA. What’s transpired recently has been some mechanical failures in the non points events and how that will affect their performance on Port Angeles Harbor is one of the intriguing storylines for Strait Thunder.

R.W Dick Lynch in the G-13 Jet Chevrolet.com – Tempo enters the Port Angeles race just 818 points behind………a gap that can be overcome with two heat victories and 3^rd place qualifying time. To do so, however, would require substantial improvement from the G-13. While the team led the points race through the first two events, the biggest G-Class hydroplane and the only craft to date built expressly for the ULHRA’s Thunderboat Series, has had performance issues. At Chamberlain the team was able to garner but one 2^nd place finish, and at Polson while the team finished all 4 heats their performance wasn’t up to their standards. At Polson the team was plagued by a damaged front canard control and engine issues that found the 4100 lb craft restricted to only 7 firing cylinders. Both problems have been corrected which should generate improved performance, although the race course at Port Angeles is a bit short and tight for this size craft which is also the only Thunderboat that races with a horizontal rear stabilizer (wing).

David Warren has been part of the Thunderboat program since it began. He acquired the former UL-51 hydroplane, lengthened the craft to Thunderboat rules (25-28 feet in length) and installed former Unlimited tails on his hull. They were easily the tallest tails in the G-Class, and proved to be just a bit too tall. This year newer, lighter and shorter tails were built and installed by Warren’s Roostertail Racing Team (let’s be fair, these are shorter tails but they are NOT short) and Warren’s team with engines supplied by Block Head Machine has been its most competitive yet. Warren also is within shouting distance of the Thunderboat title. It’s quite a shout, being 1243 points behind, but as noted this is a volatile class of hydroplane racing with the biggest and most powerful automotive based, purpose built engines in hydroplane racing. The class truly demonstrates the age-old racing adage “if you intend to finish first, you first have to finish”. If the Echols team has problems, either Lynch or Warren could leap ahead to the title.

A 4th entry could take the Strait Thunder G-Class trophy but won't win the Series Championship due to lack of participation in the Series. Chicago's Marty Wolfe in the G-93 Trafficade-Renegade won the Final at Chamberlain-Oacoma SD and has shown to be a very strong competitor in this series. The G-93 is a strong contender with Wolfe Engines horsepower and the team has found success this season both on the ULHRA Thunderboat Series and on the Canadian GP Series.

Why are they called Thunderboats? When these 468 and 575 cubic inch supercharged engines are fired up, you’ll know.

John Lynch

“Voice” of ULHRA Racing.

UL-11 ON DISPLAY IN OLYMPIA *Updated*

Have you ever heard of “making the rounds” ?... Well, that is exactly what the UL-11, Straitthunder.com presents 94.5 FM Roxy Radio (KRXY) and Power Punch Performance Lubricants did on Friday September 19th and Saturday September 20th.

The Darren and Mary Bartels owned UL-11 visited the beautiful Washington State Capitol of Olympia, and its nearby cities of Lacey and Tumwater. In appreciation to their sponsors, the “Thank You Parade” took them on a whirlwind tour of the city. Visiting nine local businesses including Johnson Insurance at 1226 Carpenter Road in Lacey , 360 Chiropractic at 5831 Lacey Boulevard at Lacey, Thrive Community Fitness in the Crossroads Center at Yelm Highway and College, Tumwater Automotive at 6020 Capitol Boulevard in Tumwater, Apex Karting at 7960 Center Street behind the airport in Tumwater, Westside Casino off Harrison by Westside Lanes in West Olympia, Cut Rate Auto Parts on College Street in Lacey, Speedway Brewing & BBQ on Ruddell Road between Lacey Boulevard and Pacific Avenue, and South Sound Center in Lacey. Handing out Thunder & Lights Magazines and Hero Cards were but some of the perks that were available to fans and participants.

On Saturday 9-20 the UL-11, had a day of fun and excitement at the Summers End Car Show at Lacey located in Huntamer Park. Driver, Mike Flaherty, was on hand signing autographs and talking to people about racing and winning. They also displayed a laptop that could be viewed by the visitors, of an onboard video taken during a race. Giving a real feel for what it’s like to sit in the cockpit of a race boat, which was a huge hit…Surrounded by hundreds of cars and people, the UL-11 fit right in…

At the end of the day, the very least anyone could say is “the UL-11 did a fantastic job… Showing their appreciation for the great Sponsors they have” and for putting on a great show for the Thank you Parade… Special thanks go out to all the businesses and patrons that supported the team and their efforts.
**If you would like to see more pictures of the 2 day exhibit, go to http://www.ul11.com/photos/olympiavictoryparade2008/album

Linda Amundsen

Strait Thunder Happenings

When Victoria Express presents Strait Thunder, you can count on lots of hydroplane action, but did you know about all the other things to see and do?

Thirteen hydroplane displays will be occurring in the Port Angeles and Sequim communities before the races. Several of the significant Strait Thunder sponsoring businesses will host a hydroplane display at their individual business locations over the next several days. Wilder RV, Strait Thunder Hot Pit sponsor, has turned their display into a day long sales event September 27 from 9AM to 5PM. With 2 hydroplanes on display and a raffle to win a free boat ride in a Jersey Speed Skiff (proceeds to benefits Toys for Tots), John Carver says come on down for a hot dog and sit in the cockpit of a hydroplane.

Coming through Sequim to get to Port Angeles and Strait Thunder, stop in at the Longhouse Market and Deli, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. An event partner of Strait Thunder, the market features fresh produce and seafood in season, a walk-in cigar humidor and tobacco shop, Raven Wine and Spirits shop and the Harvest Deli in addition to traditional groceries. The 11,000 square foot store reflects the Jamestown Tribal aesthetics with three totem poles carved by Tribal artist Dale Faulstich.

Thursday, October 2^nd kicks off Strait Thunder officially with a Sponsor Appreciation Party at Mickey’s Casino. The party is open to the public and benefits Toys for Tots, the official Charity of Strait Thunder. Please bring a new unwrapped toy or cash donations will also be accepted at the door.

Friday October 3^rd, the boats start lining up in the City Park for the final race of the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing season in Port Angeles, Washington. Teams from as far away as Chicago, Illinois are making their way to Port Angeles Harbor for the championship races. The course in the Port Angeles Harbor is a 1.20 mile oval that will provide exceptional viewing from the Port Angeles City Pier and the Waterfront Trail. Admission is free.

At 5:30 PM on Friday, the Red Lion Hotel will host capsule training in their swimming pool. A real hydroplane driver’s capsule is put into the pool and used to train and officially certify drivers for using the enclosed canopy systems on the hydroplanes. If you ever aspired, or just wondered what it might be like, this is your chance to be under water in the hydroplane capsule. Bring water clothes; Face mask, oxygen and rescue team provided. Afterwards teams and drivers will make their way over to Steele’s Sports Bar for Team Nite. Fans can meet the crews and the drivers as they take a few hours to unwind before the big weekend. The Team Nite at Steele’s, Sponsors Party at Mickey’s Casino and the Sales Event at Wilder all will be offering raffle tickets. Enter to win a chance for a free ride in a Jersey Speed Skiff race weekend. Proceeds from all raffle tickets benefit Toys for Tots.

Gates open at 8AM, with National Anthem and Opening Ceremonies Saturday at 11:45. Racing begins at Noon. In between heats of racing on Saturday, check out the vendor booths with offerings from espresso to great barbecue. Kids can enjoy face painting or try their hand at Tile Art at the Home Depot Activity booth.

For the first time this year, the Marine Life Center will remain open all weekend. The Feiro Marine Life Center is both an educational facility and a public aquarium. The Center provides a place for visitors to view and learn about the local marine environment. At the Center you will marvel at the variety of marine life on display, there are hundreds of examples of inter-tidal creatures, fish, and plant life as well as "dry" displays to enjoy. Of special interest to children, as well as adults, a touch-tank provides a chance to meet marine life up close and personal.

If you are in the market for a recreational vehicle, Wilder RV, Strait Thunder Hot Pit sponsor, will have four examples of their extensive inventory on the pier for you to walk through and check out.

If you already have an RV and wish to stay close to the race site, Peabody Creek RV Park offers quiet, clean, complete facilities for RV travelers, situated along a peaceful creek, within walking distance.

Both Saturday and Sunday, the Budweiser Beer Garden will be operating on the patio in front of the Red Lion hotel.

Event Partner 7 Cedars Casino has much to offer in “Rocktober” for the later evening crowd. Visit www.7Cedars.com for complete detailed information.

Courtesy of the US Army: 26 ft tall rock climbing wall molded from real rock and with varying degrees of difficulty, an Army camouflaged Humvee, and GI Johnny, a 10-ft tall inflatable, people friendly walk around mascot.

After the conclusion of the first full day of racing, another fun event to stop in at will be the Red Lion Party. Locals and racers will mingle for a fun evening in the ball room with live music provided by the popular local band, Fat Chance. The music begins at 9PM. Red Lion bartenders will be announcing the Strait Thunder drink special.

Don’t wander far from the race site, but if you want to stretch your legs, the waterfront trail is a lovely walk in the fall. The 5.5 miles of Waterfront Trail, perfect for jogging, walking, or biking and runs from the Ediz Hook to the east end of Port Angeles. The trail is part of the Discovery Trail with great views to the Olympics and Cascade Mountains and you won’t miss a single heat as you can view the hydroplane racing all the way along the beach.

A brief trip, within walking distance takes you to the Port Angeles downtown merchants. Some to check out are Family Shoe Store, Port Book and News and Northwest Fudge and Confections.

Sunday Morning, Chaplain Jim Riley will conduct race site chapel services at 9AM before the boats hit the water again a little after 10AM.

For more information, visit www.ulhra.org or www.straitthunder.com

For additional photos, visit www.tcrowley.smugmug.com

ULHRA Thunderboat Invitational 2009 presented by Ted’s Red Apple Market and the Westport-Grayland Chamber of Commerce

The G-Class will thunder in 2009.

Tukwila WA September 24, 2008

The Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association will launch a new element in the growth of the Thunderboat (G) class. It is designed to bring more teams to the series, and more entertainment value for racing fans, racing teams, and racing promoters. The 2009 Thunderboat Invitational is that step. It’s a 4 race “series within a series” for supercharged engine hydroplanes. The series will be sponsored by Ted’s Red Apple Market of Westport WA and the Westport-Grayland Chamber of Commerce located on the coast of Washington State. The relationship has been formed to promote year round tourism in the Westport, Washington area, well known as a spectacular spot for salmon and halibut fishing and also for many other features. For further information, log on to www.westportgrayland-chamber.org.

Each race in the 4 event series will feature a minimum of 6 entries. G-Class Thunderboats in ULHRA are larger than Unlimited Lights with more powerful purpose built racing engines. The first year of the Thunderboat Invitational will present a minimum series prize fund of $50,000. The 4 race sites will be announced in the near future.

The series will promote a homogenous class of the fastest automotive powered hydroplanes in boat racing where technology, hulls, engine packages and drivers are comparable to provide close, exciting competition. Teams from the G Class of ULHRA and the GP Classes of APBA and ACHA will be eligible to participate with rules established to “equalize” the competitive opportunity of the various categories.

The Ted’s Red Apple Market-Westport/Grayland Chamber of Commerce sponsored Thunderboat Invitational series will also highlight the year round tourism experience in the Westport-Grayland Washington area. The 4 race “series within a series” will be part of “Racing, ULHRA Style” that will be expanded to new locations in 2009 and encompass ten or more events for the organization’s legacy series, Unlimited Light hydroplanes.

Pat Malara, Executive Vice President and General Manager
Photos Courtesy of Mark Sharley, ULHRA Chief Photographer

PORT ANGELES… READY OR NOT… HERE WE COME…

As we gear up for the Victoria Express presents Strait Thunder, with boats from all ULHRA classes coming to a
neighborhood near you… So don’t sit at home… Load up the family and head on down to one of the locations to
meet the drivers, get your copy of Thunder & ‘LIGHTS Magazine, maybe have some refreshments….Then get ready… Because the “Thunder” is coming…

Wednesday 9/24/08

Les Schwab Tire Centers – Port Angeles (8am to noon) UL-11 Hydroplane

901 E First Street, Port Angeles 360-452-7691

Red Lion - Lincoln Street, Port Angeles   (1-5 pm)   UL-11 Hydroplane

(360) 452-9215

Gordys Pizza and Pasta –10AM to 2PM E-77 Lighter-than-LIGHT Hydroplane

1123 E First Street, Port Angeles

Saturday   9/27/08

Olde Mill Days – Port Gamble (all day) UL-11 Hydroplane

www.oldmilldays.com

Wilder RV – Port Angeles (all day) 2 Hydros ( UL-00 & E-10) and Jersey Speed Skiff

360-457-7715 (Display location on Front Street in Port Angeles next to Bushwackers)

Monday    9/29/08

Roadrunner 76 – Port Angeles E-77 Lighter-than-LIGHT on display

Thursday 10/2/08

7 Cedars Casino: See the G-13 Hydroplane

360-683-7777

Mickey’s Casino - Windermere Realty’s Sponsors Appreciation Night & Toys for Tots Fundraiser 6 PM

UL-00, E-10 & Jersey Speed Skiff

1603 E Front Street, Port Angeles, WA (360) 417-8114

Friday

Les Schwab Tire Center – G-17 Hydroplane

802 East Washington Street, Sequim (Morning)   (360)683-7261

Pettit Oil – (Morning)   UL-11 Hydroplane

638 W Marine Drive, Port Angeles

United Rentals/ Port Angeles (Morning) G-329 Hydroplane

360-457-1234

Victoria Express Ferries (Morning) Two Hydros: E-77 and UL-72

360-452-8088

Steeles Sports Bar– ULHRA Team Nite

(7PM until closing)   UL-00 & Jersey Speed Skiff

1605 E Front Street, Port Angeles

****Friday afternoon – boats start moving over to the Hot Pits at City Park in preparation for Strait Thunder Races… *****

FROM THE LIGHTER SIDE...
By Bud McKay

There are no guarantees in the exciting world of hydroplane racing other than for nearly every Victoria Express presents Strait Thunder a champion will be crowned. On paper, Bud McKay in the 8-cylinder Lighter-Than-LIGHTS has a comfortable lead in the high points, as does the dynamic duo of rookies Joe Perkins and Bianca Bononcini in the 4-cylinders. But that's only if Strait Thunder follows the four-heat format.

If they had a bonus, fifth-heat, as they did in 2006, throw the paper out.

The LTL series is an affordable, entry-level series into the Unlimited Lights Hydroplane Racing Association.Thanks to making every LTL on the schedule, Bud McKay's GEICO of Lakewood Presents West Sound Electric, sits on top of the points lead in the 8-cylinder class with 3,750 points. Kevin Eacret in the Baker Equipment hull is 1,850 points behind. Other than one heat at Silverdale Thunder, Eacret's won every heat he's run in two races.

He would have to win every heat, including a fifth heat, and McKay would have to not finish any for Eacret to dethrone McKay from his third-consecutive high points crown. Sound impossible?

Factor in McKay's last time in the boat was when he flipped and landed upside down. Also factor in the GEICO hull has a turning issue causing it to spin out. And lastly, the GEICO team lost it's "Ol' Reliable" engine as well. Had it not been for West Sound Electric stepping up as a sponsor so team partner Brandon Payne could build a new engine, the GEICO team could have ended up on the beach watching the race rather than competing in it. But they'll show up with an untested engine and untested modifications to the hull to prevent it from spinning out. Could be an exciting first turn.

The issue of the points makes no difference to local pilot Shane Pratt in the Victoria Express presents Maxxim Power Sports and Adly Moto, owned by Shane and Vicki Pratt and Garry and Tresa McCallister. Last year as the points leaders kept a close on each other on the course, Pratt went on to power his way to an impressive whooping on the salt water liquid oval to earn his first-ever win.

Belfair's Steve Clark, in the Power Punch Performance Lubricants/Thunderstruck, has an outside chance at making the race. He lost his engine when he threw a rod and "grenaded" his entire engine. Clark is seeking another sponsor to help with building a new engine.

On the 4-cylinder front, like the Baker Equipment hull, the Perkins Glass has been perfect in every race but one heat at Silverdale Thunder. Joe Perkins and Bononcini began sharing the drive at the Radio Waves Regatta on Flathead Lake. Only a faulty starter in the final heat cost the Perkins Glass perfection for 2008. To pour salt in the wound, the engine fired right up on the trailer as the team tried to figure out what happened.

The Perkins Glass team combines two of the strongest hydroplane families and coaching staffs into a "Dream Team." Owner Kevin Perkins and his children - Brian and Kayleigh Perkins, drive in the unlimited and unlimited light ranks. Joe is quickly following in his cousin's wake. And on the radios, veteran hydroplane driver Phil Bononcini; Bianca's dad. Phil's one of the top drivers in the unlimited light's all-time wins list.

But Austin Eacret in The Trainer is hoping to crash the party before the celebration begins in the Perkins' camp. Trailing by 1,723 points, Austin is in the same boat, so to speak, as his older cousin Kevin. Austin could win the high points title in the 4-cylinders if he wins all heats, and a fifth possible heat, and the Perkins Glass boats runs into gremlins and doesn't finish a heat. Austin is coming off his first final heat win at Silverdale.

And you can't have a discussion about Gremlins without talking about the Lil Miss Boat Electric driven by Philip Eacret. This boat is the defending 4-cylinder high points champion and has been to every LTL race on the schedule. But bug after bug has bitten the team given them more DNFs - did not finish - and scored less than half the points as it had the potential to.

Speaking about points, the all-time LTL high points record of 4,569 is in jeopardy to be topped. Two teams are within shot of the record set in 2003 by Jeff Bernard. The GEICO hull needs to score 820 points while The Perkins Glass team needs to score 970 to top the mark. Bernard now drives one of the Formula Boats unlimited hydroplane.

No one is more disappointed in not making the race other than Port Angeles' Dave Solway. Solway planned to have the My Joy 4-cylinder in the race, but he punched a hole in the bottom of the hull at the Spanaway race. His boat, owned by Shawn Warren, will be on display at the race.

WHERE CHAMPIONS ARE CROWNED...AGAIN!

It's more than a tagline. Every year since the first year, 2003, that ULHRA has come to Port Angeles WA, the Unlimited Light championship has been decided on Port Angeles Harbor. The event is called Strait Thunder, presented by Victoria Express Passenger Ferry, because the famous Strait of Juan de Fuca is just off the harbor, separating Washington State with Vancouver Island and picturesque Victoria, British Columbia.

In 2003 it was Jerry Hopp clinching his first championship in Unlimited Lights after being part of the series since it began in 1995. It was Jerry who became the first Unlimited Lights' titlist to elect to race as UL-1 signifying the national champion. The Hopp Racing team won 4 straight titles, clinching all of them at Port Angeles including 2005 when Michael Flaherty in the UL-72 Miss Boat Electric "ran the table" by winning all 4 heats at Port Angeles, only to wind up 83 points short of the championship.

Last year; same story, different result. Then 19 year old rookie Kayleigh Perkins in the Miss Boat Electric came from behind to secure her first championship after Greg Hopp in the UL-1 Graham Trucking G.T. Happy Go Lucky flipped during qualifying.

On October 4^th and 5^th they'll do it again. Greg Hopp and Kayleigh Perkins enter Port Angeles separated by a mere 283 points. With up to 1640 points available and 400 points for each heat victory, this is a race that's very close. Adding to the points' race complexity is a program established by the ULHRA Board of Directors this season. Unlimited Lights teams that choose to race ULHRA events exclusively earn Participation Points at each race they attend. If they attend them all their Participation Point totals escalate, starting with 30 points at the first race and by their 8^th consecutive race (Port Angeles) a team would earn 240 Participation Points. As a result Ms. Perkins' team will receive 240 Participation Points added to her total if she makes a legal start bringing the Miss Boat Electric team within 43 points of the lead. One item to be aware; don't think a "legal start" is an automatic. Remember Greg Hopp's flip in qualifying a year ago. Incidentally, Participation Points apply to the National Championship but have no effect on individual race results. The Boat Electric and Graham Trucking teams each earned 100 Bonus Points for competing at the season opener at Phoenix AZ. There were an additional 200 Bonus Points for participating at the Pickwick Landing TN exhibition but neither team was able to attend.

Paul Becker and the UL-14 Miss Critical Logic will wind up third for 2008 after leading the championship points' race in August and earning his first ever Unlimited Lights win, at Seattle. Becker is recovering from injuries sustained when his boat flipped while leading the Final at Silverdale on August 10^th. The boat and Becker, the former US Navy flier, will return for the 2009 season.

Further down the points' ladder there's a fine battle for 4^th between Michael Flaherty in the Straitthunder.com presents ROXY 94.5 - Power Punch Performance Lubricants in Darren Bartels' first complete season as team owner. Flaherty leads Wil Muncey in the UL-00 Trafficade Safety Sales presented by Warning Power.com by 474 points. Bartels' team just completed some needed hull repairs to the engine well and belly pan and has

been improving throughout the season. The UL-11 would have to be favored with the points advantage and because of the unknown factor facing the Muncey team. The two-boat team will be racing their larger hydroplane for only the second time. Engine damage at the larger hull's debut in Montana put that program behind schedule with a limited number of laps and a limited amount of seat time for Muncey. Still, the larger UL-00 is the former UL-23 Pegasus built by Steve Balcer of Detroit and it's a proven quick boat. With Muncey having the larger 00 carburetor boat able to start inside the supercharged entry of Flaherty, that could make a difference.

When it comes to the exciting world of Lighter-Than-LIGHTS (LTL) hydroplane racing, there are no guarantees other than for nearly every Victoria Express presents Strait Thunder, a champion will be crowned. On paper, Bud McKay in the 8-cylinder Lighter-Than-LIGHTS has a comfortable lead in the high points, as does the dynamic duo of rookies Joe Perkins and Bianca Bononcini in the 4-cylinders. But that's only if Strait Thunder follows the four-heat format. If they had a bonus, fifth-heat, as they did in 2006, throw the paper out. Both teams are within reach. The LTL series is an affordable, entry-level series into the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association. Last year, local Shane Pratt surprised everyone and "whooped" the field in the final heat in the Victoria Express presents Roadrunner 76 and Gordy’s Pizza and Pasta, owned by Shane and Vicki Pratt and Garry and Tresa McCallister.

Nine Unlimited Light Hydroplane teams are expected for the 2008 Season Finale along with 3 Thunderboat (G) teams and both 4 cylinder and 8 cylinder hydroplanes from the Lighter than LIGHTS series and the vintage Jersey Skiffs. It will be a full weekend of marine motor sports action. A series of display appearances are being conducted leading up to the October 4^th & 5^th regatta in and around Port Angeles WA.

John Lynch

"Voice" of ULHRA Racing

Official Toybox of Strait Thunder

UL-11 ROXY 94.5 on display in Olympia and Port AWA

The Darren Bartels owned, Michael Flaherty driven UL-11 ROXY 94.5 Unlimited Light Hydroplane will be on display in the Capital city of Washington State on Friday 9-19. Olympia is the home of ROXY Radio 94.5 FM and the team can be viewed throughout the day (Friday 9-19) at the following locations.

Johnson Insurance at 1226 Carpenter Road in Lacey from 10:00 to 10:30
360 Chiropractic at 5831 Lacey Boulevard at Lacey Downs Plaza from 10:45 to 11:15
Thrive Community Fitness in the Crossroads Center at Yelm Highway and College from 11:30 to noon
Tumwater Automotive at 6020 Capitol Boulevard in Tumwater from 12:15 to 12:45
Apex Karting at 7960 Center Street behind the airport in Tumwater from 1:00 to 1:30
Westside Casino off Harrison by Westside Lanes in West Olympia from 1:45 to 2:15
Cut Rate Auto Parts on College Street in Lacey from 2:45 to 3:15
Speedway Brewing & BBQ on Ruddell Road between Lacey Boulevard and Pacific Avenue from 3:30 to 4:00
South Sound Center in Lacey from 4:15 to 4:45

On Saturday 9-20 the UL-11 will be on display in Lacey (near Olympia) at Huntamer Park at the Summer's End Car Show

UL-72 ON DISPLAY AT SEATTLE'S 2008 LAKE UNION BOATS AFLOAT SHOW

Sunny skies and warm weather weren't the only things out last weekend, as there were 10,240 attendees making "the 2008 Boats Afloat Show one of the best attended shows we've had in recent years," said Allen Powell, President of the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association.

The annual show featured over 260 power and sailing vessels displayed by yacht brokers and dealers from Washington, Oregon, California, Florida and British Columbia, Canada. Yachts on display included a 143-foot mega yacht - one of nine over 80 feet, and over 100 new and previously owned yachts in the 40 - 60 foot range. The collection excited both show organizers as well as attendees.

The UL-72 Miss Boat Electric was on display representing the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association. Kayleigh Perkins, one of the few women drivers in the world in high performance motor sports, boat co-owner Joe Frauenheim, crew chiefs George Greer and Darren Olson and ULHRA Official James Mallory were on-hand to talk safety and winning boat racing. Handing out Thunder & 'LIGHTS magazines and allowing fans to sit in the UL-72 cockpit brought smiles to many visitors. Kayleigh nailed it on the head when she said, "If we can make one person a fan, then we've accomplished something" and many fans were made that day. Jack Harmon, Owner of ULHRA Series Partner Victoria Express Ferries and Associate Sponsor of the UL-72, made a surprise appearance in support of the team and association.

Other family activities included free sailboat rides for the kids, public tours of the crab fishing vessel Sea Star from TV's The Deadliest Catch, flightseeing tours of Seattle on board classic de Havilland Beaver floatplanes courtesy of Kenmore Air, on-board cooking demonstrations from noted Northwest chefs Thomas Hamlin of Daniel's Broiler and Kevin Rohr of Chandler's Crab House, water safety awareness program with partner Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center. The program included the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary fitting the first 300 kids in attendance with free lifejackets courtesy of BECU. Children's Hospital and 106.1 KISS FM's morning host, Bender, treated attendees to a kids' life jacket fashion show.

Special thanks go to Boats Afloat Show for inviting the ULHRA to their event... and to all of the fans, both old and the new ones that were made during the event... We'll see you at the races...

Linda Amundsen

(Photos by Debi Muncey)

Unlimited Light Hydro Champ Kayleigh Perkins to talk safety at Boats Afloat Show

Contacts:

Northwest Yacht Brokers Association

Bonnie Bergquist

206-748-0012

bonnie@nwyachtbrokers.com

McQuaid & Co. Strategic Communications

Mike McQuaid

206-262-7301

mike@mcquaidcompany.com

Sept. 13, 2008

Free kids life jackets and galley-style cooking demos by NW chefs

SEATTLE, Seattle’s Lake Union Boats Afloat Show heads into its final day on Sunday with a guest appearance by champion hydroplane driver Kayleigh Perkins of the unlimited lights Miss Boat Electric Team, free life jackets and sailboat rides for the kids and on-board cooking demonstrations by noted Northwest chefs from Daniel’s Broiler and Chandler’s Crab House. The show is open on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Throughout the week, late summer sun and boating bargains have attracted over 7,500 boating enthusiasts to South Lake Union, including over 3,300 on Saturday, to explore the 260 yachts on display from brokers in Washington, Oregon, California, Florida and British Columbia, Canada.

On Sunday, the 20-year-old Perkins of Black Diamond, Wash., one of the world’s few female drivers in high-performance motor sports and the 2007 unlimited lights national champion, will be on hand along with her 833 h.p. Miss Boat Electric hydroplane to talk boating safety and sign autographs.

“Boating has always been major family sport for us,” said Perkins, who cut her teeth in a hydroplane racing â€“ and pleasure boating family. “My parents were really careful with us around the water. We always had a rule - that if you wanted to be on deck, you had to have your life jacket on.”

Perkins, who will be speaking at 3 p.m. on boating safety and her success racing the lights, a lighter, more athletic version of the classic unlimited hydroplanes, has the following boating safety tips for kids and their families: 1. Always wear a life jacket, they’re cool, 2. Be able to swim, 3. Don’t run on the docks and 4. Always be a courteous boater.

Throughout the day on Sunday, volunteers from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will be fitting kids with their very own free life jackets to take home. The life jacket giveaway is courtesy of BECU and continues while supplies last.

Other activities include free sailboat rides for the kids and on-board cooking demonstrations by chefs Thomas Hamlin of Daniel’s Broiler and Kevin Rohr of Chandler’s Crab House. The Northwest cuisine aficionados will demonstrate the culinary art of on-board cooking â€” galley style. Demonstrations are free and take place behind Daniel’s Broiler at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Boats Afloat Show Seminars and Activities on Sunday, Sept. 14

12 NOON Scott Sky Smith How to Select the Best Boat for You

1 p.m. Chuck Gould Man Overboard

1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Chefs from Schwartz Brothers restaurants will demonstrate the art of cooking in limited spaces on-board using the freshest ingredients from Puget Sound.

2 p.m. Jessica Stone Doggy on Deck

3 p.m. Kayleigh Perkins Unlimited Light Hydroplane Champion

ALL DAY Public tours of the Sea Star, one of the boats from the Emmy Award nominated television series Deadliest Catch. Cost is $1 with admission.

ALL DAY Sailboat rides on Lake Union courtesy of Discover Sailing.

ALL DAY Flight seeing tours of Seattle on Kenmore Air. Tours depart regularly from the Boats Afloat Show. Cost is $59 with admission.

To help ease traffic and parking congestion, e-Ticket holders can ride the Seattle Streetcar to and from the Boats Afloat Show for free. E-Tickets are available at www.BoatsAfloatShow.com. The Seattle Streetcar, which makes regular runs to and from its Pacific Place Station in downtown Seattle and South Lake Union, is near over eight public parking lots within easy walking distance of the line's 11 stops. e-Ticket holders will also receive a certificate from SkyCity at the Space Needle.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids between 12 and 18. Kids under 12 are free. The annual boat show, sponsored by Fireman's Fund Insurance, runs through Sun. Sept. 14. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

In 2007, nearly 10,000 boating enthusiasts visited the Lake Union Boats Afloat Show from throughout the U.S. and Canada.

What: Lake Union Boats Afloat Show

When: Wednesday, Sept. 10, Sunday, Sept. 14 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily)

Where: South Lake Union in Seattle

Tickets: $10 for adults / $5 for kids under 18 (kids under 12 are free)

Receive a free ride on the Seattle Streetcar and Space Needle coupon with an e-Ticket purchase at www.BoatsAfloatShow.com

Getting There: Park downtown and take the Seattle Street Car to South Lake Union.

For additional show news and exhibitor news visit: http://www.boatsafloatshowcom/pr.htm

About the Lake Union Boats Afloat Show

The Lake Union Boats Afloat Show (www.BoatsAfloatShow.com) is presented by the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association and recognized as the largest floating boat show on the West Coast. Seattle's floating boat show, which dates to 1977, brings together a world-class fleet of power and sailing yachts presented by yacht brokers and dealers in the Northwest U.S. and Western Canada, along with a wide assortment marine products and services to help first-time and veteran boaters enjoy the water. Since 2005, the show has gained in popularity among boaters across the U.S. and Canada with attendance increasing by 40 percent. The 2008 Lake Union Boats Afloat Show is sponsored by Fireman's Fund Insurance.

About the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association

The Northwest Yacht Brokers Association (www.nwyachtbrokers.com) is a non-profit marine trade group founded in 1988 consisting of over 340 marine brokers, dealers and other industry professionals representing over 230 marine-related businesses in the Pacific Northwest. Subscribing to the strictest code of ethics, NYBA members are committed to bringing integrity and professionalism to the buying and selling process of new and previously owned pleasure craft. NYBA plays an active role in marine youth and education programs and is active in creating a greater interest in the welfare and safety of the boating public. Along with the Northwest Marine Trade Association, NYBA's January and September Boats Afloat Shows connect thousands of boating enthusiasts with marine professionals and the finest pleasure craft the Northwest has to offer.

Movement to Save Miami Marine Stadium

Can Miami Marine Stadium be saved and revitalized? Articles about this great place space have frequently appeared in Propeller Magazine (“Remembering the Miami Marine Stadium” by Carl Wilson, April of 2008 and “How To Save A Memory” by Verticus in January, 2008).

There is now a serious movement afoot to bring back the Stadium, and it is gaining momentum. Beginning in April of 2008, Friends of Marine Stadium (website www.marinestadium.org) has launched a focused lobbying effort-and progress is being made.

The Friends of Marine Stadium is broad based coalition of individuals and organizations under the administrative umbrella of Dade Heritage Trust, Dade County’s foremost organization devoted to historic preservation. It turns out that in addition to its great history for boat racing, the Marine Stadium is admired by preservationists and architecture buffs worldwide as a remarkable piece of mid-century architecture. Its folded plate roof-which used revolutionary (at the time) thin shell construction, is one of the largest spans of unsupported concrete in the world. The Stadium also has an important piece of cultural history as it was designed by Cuban born architect Hilario Candela; it is one of the first major structures in the United States designed by a Cuban immigrant.

Friends of Marine Stadium has applied for historic designation and the application for nomination as a historic structure was approved by the City of Miami Historic and Environmental Preservation Board by a 7-1 vote on July 1, 2007. The Marine Stadium returns to the Board on October 7 for final designation. Once designated, the Stadium cannot be demolished-although this decision can be appealed to the Miami City Commission.

The Friends of Marine Stadium is now working on plans and ideas for financing and programming. You can view some of the concepts by going to the website.

Based on extensive discussions with potential users, Friends of Marine Stadium sees a broad array of uses-power boat racing (of course), entertainment, film and tv shoots, special events, sculling and dragon boat races, other athletic events (ie. triathlons and wakeboarding) and one of a kind special events” that could only take place at the Stadium.

Support for the Stadium’s renovations is as wide as its potential uses. Organizational sponsors include the American Power Boat Association, the American Boat Racing Association, the Miami Dragon Boat Club, the Rhythm Foundation, the Miami Chapter of the American Association of Architects, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and the powerful Kiwanis Club of Little Havana.

Convincing the City to bring the Stadium back is not an easy task. But the group has excellent momentum. If you love the Stadium for what it was-and what it can be-check out the website www.marinestadium.org and join our cause.

Submitted by Don Worth of the Dade County Heritage Trust

UL-00 On Display In Sequim's All About Storage

As the 2008 season nears an end with just one race left to go, the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association families continue to work together… race together… and show examples of their commitment to the sport as well as our supportive sponsors.

Last Friday was no different as the UL-00 Trafficade Racing Team went on display at All About Storage, the Official Toy Box of Strait Thunder. At their Sequim, WA location, All About Storage Manager Lynne Schlosser greeted visitors with a small lunch buffet and plenty of cookies and drinks. Every visitor had the opportunity to fill out an entry blank and place their entries in the “lucky” helmet. The winners will receive free commemorative Victoria Express presents Strait Thunder event buttons, valued at $10 each, good for pier access, pit tours and a chance for additional door prizes at the races in Port Angeles October 4-5.

The beautiful tow vehicle, provided courtesy of Wilder Toyota of Port Angeles help set the stage for what turned out to be a sunny and fun-filled day for all who attended. Wilder Toyota and Wilder RV, loyal supporters of Strait Thunder are the Hot Pit sponsors of event this year. Competitors can look for the Wilder RV units at the race site deployed for race registration, drivers’ physicals, and near the autograph-signing sessions.

Friday’s display was advertised in advance locally on KONP Radio of Port Angeles, the Peninsula Daily News and the Sequim Gazette. The advance notice helped bring in fans who are excited about the next ULHRA race; to sit in the cockpit of a hydroplane, pick up a copy of Thunder & LIGHTS Magazine, or talk with driver Wil Muncey. At the conclusion of the display, a photographer from the Peninsula Daily News took photos of the Trafficade for her story in the next day’s paper, and additional photos of the storage units. With a little staging of the hydroplane and some Photoshop magic, one of the units will represent the Official Toy Box of Strait Thunder. That ad will appear in the upcoming Strait Thunder festival tab being produced by the Peninsula Daily News. Schlosser hopes if you live in the vicinity of the Strait Thunder and you have too many toys for your garage, you will check out her units at All About Storage.

Thanks to all who help keep this sport exciting… and to all who participated.

Story by Linda Amundsen

(Photos provided by Tim Crowley)

BECKER CONFIRMS: MISS CRITICAL LOGIC OUT OF PORT ANGELES (09-09-08)

The finest season in Paul Becker’s five years of racing as an owner-driver in the Unlimited Lights has come to a close. Becker, who was injured in a spectacular 360 degree flip at Silverdale Thunder on Dyes Inlet in Silverdale, Washington on August 10^th says he’s mending well and looking forward to returning to racing in 2009.

Becker says there are some improvements the team would like to make before putting the UL-14 Miss Critical Logic back into competition. Upgrades in the cockpit such as more advanced seating design are being studied. A representative of Becker's team recently visited the Muncey Racing shop to study a custom-made seat designed by ULHRA Contingency Sponsor Joie of Seating. It is hoped that better seating and support could help reduce back and lower leg injuries. Becker suffered a fractured vertebrae and broken ankle in his mishap.

However, 2009 will go into the books as the best season yet for PR Becker Racing. Even with missing the final event of the year when Victoria Express presents Strait Thunder in Port Angeles, they are assured of finishing third nationally in the Unlimited Lights championship, equaling their achievement in 2006. But more so, the team and Becker earned their first ever race victory in 2008. And what a victory it was at Seattle in the Graham Trucking Cup for Unlimited Lights at Seafair, where Becker first got the “bug” to go racing many years ago. Becker dominated from start to finish, holding off Greg Hopp and Kayleigh Perkins for a thrilling victory. Unfortunately the elation of victory was short-lived when at Silverdale just one week later, Becker was in the lead going for a second straight victory when on the second lap the Miss Critical Logic lifted her right sponson as she had done before; only this time she didn’t settle back down. The boat did a complete 360-degree loop high in the sky, landing hard but right side up. Ever the consummate pro “pilot” Becker immediately turned on the strobe light atop his canopy indicating to his radio man that he was “OK”, allowing everyone on shore to breath a collective sigh of relief.

So what was to be a three-way championship battle is down to two. And the title will be decided where it’s always decided: 'Where Champions are Crowned” at the Victoria Express presents Strait Thunder Regatta, October 4^th and 5^th ⁱⁿ Port Angeles, Washington. It’s a spectacular setting on the famous Strait of Juan de Fuca and the racing is always first rate. Greg and Jerry Hopp and their UL-15 Graham Trucking G.T. Happy Go Lucky enter Port Angeles with a 283 point lead over Kayleigh Perkins and the UL-72 Miss Boat Electric. With up to 1640 points at stake, and 400 points for each heat victory, this race for the title could go down to the last lap of the last heat on Sunday October 5^th, just as it did in 2005.

John Lynch

IN MEMORIAM (09-04-08)

Former ULHRA team owner Kim Gregory passed away this week. Mr. Gregory was an originator in Unlimited Light Hydroplane racing. In 1997, the third season of UL competition, his Team USA Racing Partners debuted the first Ron Jones Sr. Unlimited Light hydroplane. The late George Stratton drove the 'Wildfire' to 5 victories in 1997 and 1998 before the team acquired a turbine hydroplane team and shifted to the Unlimited circuit.

Mr. Gregory was well liked and very respected in both racing series and his impact on the sport continues. In ULHRA competition the original 'Wildfire' remains a top competitor. It is the current UL-13 of J. Craig Fletcher and the Celtic Racing Team. Fletcher drove to his first ever victory at Polson MT this season. It was the 14th win by this hydroplane which ranks third all time in race victories by an individual hull, behind its 'sister ship' the UL-72 of Impact Racing which has 25 victories and the career leader, the Jamie Auld built UL-15 of Hopp Racing now with 34 wins.

All of us in the Unlimited Light Hydroplane Racing Association extend our condolences to the Gregory family and their racing team.

John Lynch