Deck2Deck.us: Fantasy Unlimited Hydroplane Racing

As the H1 fleet heads to the most prestigious race in all of powerboat racing, the APBA Gold Cup, held each year on the Detroit River, a good portion of the fleet are licking their wounds following the destruction derby that was the Madison Regatta. The U-21 is undergoing repairs in Ed Cooper’s U-3 shop in Evansville along with the U-96. Both boats reportedly should be ready to run for gold after substantial hull repairs are completed. It was also announced the defending National Champion hull, U-1 Oh Boy! Oberto, will miss the Gold Cup after suffering extensive damage during the horrific collision with the U-96. A back-up hull has been leased (Mike and Lori Jones’ U-9) and a capable relief driver signed to run as the U-1 Oberto. However, the combo will hardly be a shadow of the primary “shark” hull of the past few seasons. Finally, the U-88, after a lackluster debut, is also receiving modifications in a shop in Michigan with hopes of improving on its 0 points scored in the season opener. Without further ado…

HydroDan’s Three to Think About — Detroit:

Best Bet: Although there is a significant chance the U-96 will return to form this weekend after the top crew in boat racing completes repairs, the best bet is the U-5 Graham Trucking. Bernard missed badly on one start in Madison; otherwise, he and the U-5 ran a solid race and appear poised to continue their positive progress.

Most Intriguing: After running a whale of a race in the U-17, Kip Brown is scheduled to miss the Gold Cup due to other engagements. In the saddle will be a plenty-capable chauffeur in Cal Phipps (Former driver of the U-13). If Phipps can grow quickly comfortable this could be another superb weekend for the speedy U-17.

May Surprise: Scott Liddycoat in the U-7. After this rookie shoe’s sensational showing in Madison, this selection could easily be labeled “Will Surprise”. The rookie appeared cool, calm and collected in the hot seat of the U-7, finishing with a fourth place points finish, and a third in the final heat. However, remember this: the 3-mile Gold Cup course featuring the famed Roostertail Turn will be an immensely different experience than the 1-2/3 mile Madison short track.