Cal Phipps, Jr. of Sterling Heights, MI has been named the 2010 driver for the U13 Spirit of Detroit Unlimited Hydroplane.
Phipps has driven and won in nearly all classes of inboard hydroplanes since he started racing in 1992. In addition to being the 2008 high points champion for the Grand National class, he has won 7 national championships and set world records in 2 different classes. In his last race he won 1st place at the San Diego Bayfair “Thunderboat” driving the G10 Miss Titeflex-Frazee Paints owned by the Wiggins Hydroplane Racing Team. He took his first laps in a turbinepowered unlimited in the seat of the U13 at Tri-Cities, WA in 2008 and recorded his first timed lap in excess of 150 mph.
Phipps is a native of the Detroit area and is a custom automotive painting professional.
David Bartush of Bloomfield Hills, MI and owner of the U13 says, “I am excited about having Cal drive this year. He has driven almost everything on the water and wins. He has experience far beyond most rookies and the other teams will have something to respect. Cal brings both driving talent and mechanical skills to our team”. “Driving an unlimited (hydroplane) for my home team represents everything that I have worked for”, Phipps said. He added, “I want my name on the Gold Cup ”.
Great choice! been waiting to see if and when Cal would get his chance in h1.
I was at the Tri-Cities in 08 when Cal took the 13 out for some quick first time ever in an turbine powered boat laps he did great! look out all other drivers Cal will make his presence felt right away.
This is just great news!! Congrats to Cal for finally getting an unlimited ride!! The whole team deserves a big congrats as well. Looks like it will be an exiting year!
Hope to see the team in Madison and Detroit…maybe Evansville again huh Cal??
Good luck in Madison!
See you in Detroit.
Jim Piteo (hydrojimmy1)