Deck2Deck.us: Fantasy Unlimited Hydroplane Racing

The Indiana Governor’s Cup is the first race of the short six-race 2012 H1 schedule. Madison’s historic 2.5 mile Bill Cantrell Race Course already features some of the tightest turns on the circuit while offering just four raceable lanes. For the second consecutive year the racecourse will be shortened due to ongoing work on the Milton-Madison Bridge that spans the Ohio River. The tight layout means that the racing format will be divided into three sections per heat, with four boats competing in each heat of racing. More sections with fewer boats per heat will amount to higher point totals across the board. However, a spot on the front line of the final and final heat points will not come easy.

Also adding to the mystery of 2012’s first race will be the unveiling of a new procedure whereby the drivers will engage in pre-race fighting for lanes, but will not be allowed to fall below 100 MPH during the five-minute period.

HydroDan’s Three To Think About

The Favorite:

It’s hard to pick against the defending National Champion U-1 Spirit of Qatar 96 after the boat underwent an off-season diet likely resulting in a faster race boat than that which competed in 2011.

Something to Prove:

After a challenging 2011 “rookie” campaign, look for the U-11 Peters & May to show signs of improvement in Madison. The team’s pre-season test session revealed a mechanical issue associated with the gear-box that has been corrected. The Madison race format should also benefit the 11 team and the start of its sophomore campaign.

Sentimental Selection:

With a heavy heart, and a heavier foot, Greg Hopp will take to the Bill Cantrell Race Course in Madison without team owner Fred Leland looking on. “The Hopper” is a good fighter for lanes and the U-100 Leland Unlimited is known as a solid rough water boat — and we certainly expect rough water on the Ohio. Cinderella just might be wearing black and maroon in Madison.

Predicted Podium: U-1, U-6, U-17