Boat Statistics

This is our 2003 Classic Thunder Season Champion!  Jeff put together a season that many of us will never forget.  Last year’s Rookie-of-the-Year, put on a performance that left us all amazed.   This outstanding accomplishment was due to the boats consistency in high scoring finishes.  Despite missing one race during the season, Jeff compiled more heat finishes than the next four closest boats in the points race.  Jeff was able to prevail while taking only one race victory, that being the Silver Cup.  He also took 2nd at the Harmsworth and two 3rd place finishes during the year.  His primary work was done in the preliminary heats, where his boat showed that it could run fast in all types of water conditions.  That’s where this boat really set itself apart from the others.  This formula finally came together in a big way with a dominating triumph in the final race of the year.  Cruising to the Silver Cup win and snatching the points championship was a fitting end to a great season .  The Bud was able to perform when others struggled.  Speed and consistency along with good driving is the trademark of a worthy champion.  In 2003, the combination of Jeff Howard and Miss Budweiser definitely earned that title.  The boat performed well in 2004 and is rumoured to be returning in 2005.

About the real boat: Built in ’59 as the Maverick.  She became Bernie Little’s second hydroplane and the first to carry the Budweiser name in competition.  Chuck Hickling piloted her to 2nd place in the ’64 Lake Tahoe Regatta.  Her career came to a halt when she lost a sponson in San Diego at the end of the ’64 season.