Fastest racers on water, the unlimited hydroplanes may take a leap into jet-age performance and speeds next year when David Heerensperger returns to racing. His Pay 'n Pak was the winningest of thunderboats until he retired his team two years ago. Now his famous former crew chief, Jim Lucero, designer-builder of the league-leading Atlas Van Lines, is creating a new Pay 'n Pak for next year. Front spoiler and rear stabilizer wing are expected to improve handling and performance.
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| A first for unlimited competition, next year's Pay 'n Pak will have turbine power. |
But the power may be the real breakthrough. Sue Spunnoble, of the Unlimited Racing Commission, reports that clearance has been granted for the use of turbine engines, Instead of the customary Rolls-Royce aircraft mills that pushed rooster-tailers of the past, modified helicopter turbines should provide more thrust while making engine changes easier and reducing maintenance costs.
What speeds are possible? Fifty-year-old Bill Muncey, last year's champion driver again, tells us his Lucero Atlas can go well over the 200-mph official world record right now, Bernie Little's new Miss Budweiser might try turbine power, and Muncey reports he is considering ordering and driving a Lucero-turbine machine if his present winning steed slows down. A brand-new unlimited league with race-boat speeds up to 250 knots may be emerging.