1985 Stroh's Thunderfest

Detroit River, Detroit MI, June 30, 1985

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Detroit Hydroplane Trials Produce Course Record

DETROIT (AP) - Chip Hanauer broke a course record he set last year by 3 mph to lead six racers who qualified in the opening day of trials for Sunday’s Stroh’s Thunderfest Unlimited hydroplane race.

Hanauer averaged 139.384 mph in his turbine-powered boat for one lap on the 2½-mile Detroit River course Thursday, breaking the 136.115 mph lap record he set last year.

Other qualifiers Thursday were Steve Reynolds at 132.217 mph, also in a turbine-powered boat; and three racers in non-turbine powered boats — Scott Pierce, 123.237 mph; Andy Coker, 112.275 mph; Todd Yarling, 109.663 mph,

An average speed of 105 mph is required to qualify.

(Reprinted from the Associated Press, June 28, 1985)