| Tom D’Eath to serve as Honorary Race Chairman Detroit – The 2019 Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers Hydrofest announced today that former Detroit Lions kicker, Eddie Murray along with Michelle O’Connor-Tekinski of the Hope Network, will serve as this year’s Grand Marshals for the hydroplane race on the Detroit River August 24th and 25th. Serving as honorary Race Chairman this year is Tom D’Eath, three time Gold Cup champion (‘76, ‘89 and ‘90) and Grand Prix national champion. He served as the Detroit River Regatta Association (DRRA) President, executed a sharp turn-around of the race financial structure and saved the event in 2003. In its 103rd year, the Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers Hydrofest brings excitement to the Detroit River every summer. Race organizers have a strong commitment to providing the best professional racing experience in North America and delivering it to the local Detroit community. This year’s hosts bring a special cause that is near and dear to many families. The Hope Network has been providing mental and behavioral health services to Michigan for 58 years. Ms. O’Connor-Teklinski heads up their autism services, which strives to provide every child they serve with an opportunity to thrive through ABA therapy and comprehensive clinical services. “Hydroplane racing is a unique event to see in person – the speed of the boats and the agility of the drivers is a must see. This is a great opportunity for local families to see a very special event,” said Eddie Murray, former Detroit Lion from 1980 – 91. He continued, “Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to giving back to local charities and charity networks. I am proud to represent the Hope Network for this year’s Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers Hydrofest.” This year, Hydrofest race fans will watch the world’s fastest automotive-powered hydroplanes compete on a 1.25 mile course every 20 minutes. Approximately 40 boats from three competing classes – Grand Prix, H350 and the flat-bottomJersey Speed Skiff, all of which are on the HRL (Hydroplane Racing League) circuit. There will also be several VintageHydroplanes running a heat on both Saturday and Sunday. 2019 Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers Hydrofest will be an all piston-powered event — spectators seeking the thrill of hydroplane motorboat racing will be pleased to hear the races won’t lose their “rooster tail” — the long wall of water that is created in speeding boats’ wakes. The Hydroplane Racing League is bringing 13 to 15 boats from Canada, New Zealand and the United States to headline the event. These boats are 24-feet long with 468 cu. in. supercharged, big-block V8 Chevrolet piston engines producing as much as 1,500 horsepower and reaching speeds of 160 mph. Along withthe Grand Prix boats, 20 to 22 H-350 hydroplanes from the HRL will join the show. These boats span 19 feet in length and feature a 350 cubic inch Chevrolet powered engine, reaching speeds of 120 mph. |
