The U-13 Graham Trucking Spirit of Detroit enjoyed a successful day of qualifying on the Columbia River today, as driver, J. Michael Kelly and the hardworking crew ran through several sessions on the water throughout the day. Extremely hot, and sunny weather prevailed as the team experimented with several engine and prop choices, narrowing down the program in preparation for the first round of qualifying heats tomorrow. The U-13 also participated in the Dash for Cash where a heat of Unlimited’s ran a “flag-started” three lap race for a cash prize. Kelly ran a competitive deck-to-deck race closely alongside two other boats eventually finishing second.
The team had a surprise for the pits today, as Kelly graciously stepped aside in one of the test sessions to allow well known inboard Grand Prix and Unlimited Light driver Cal Phipps to begin qualifying as an Unlimited driver. Phipps crewed for the U-13 at the Gold Cup earlier this season, and also played a role in reconstructing the hull in preparation for the Gold Cup after a thrown propeller blade caused very serious damage to the hull in Evansville. Phipps ran three strong laps, averaging lap speed of 148, 150, and 151 MPH.