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1988 Sutphen Spirit

Owner: Robbie Roberts (Seattle, Wash.)
Driver(s): Robbie Roberts (Seattle, Wash.)
Model Builder: Robbie Roberts
Construction: Carbon fiber
Year Built: 2019-20
Motor: Himax A3630-1500
Radio: Spektrum
Electronic Speed Controller: Turnigy 120
Propeller: Triple top secret
Paint Colors: White
Graphics: Vinyl by Nelson Holmberg

Notes about the Model: Built in 2019-20 by Robbie Roberts, the boat was first seen in public at the January 2020 ERCU Winter Meeting at the Hydroplane & Raceboat Museum. Robbie spent numerous hours getting the detail of the complex cowling just right. It turned out beautiful.

Notes about the Real Boat: Originally built as the 1980 Pay 'n Pak, Richie Sutphen - a noted offshore racer and boat builder - purchased the hull to make an entry into unlimited hydroplane racing. With a young Mike Hanson as its driver, the team debuted at the Miller American Thunderboat Classic in Syracuse, N.Y. where they qualified for the race that was declared no contest due to poor weather. The team then finished third at the final race of the season, the Budweiser Las Vegas Silver Cup on Lake Mead. The team was back in 1988 where it ran the first five races - including as a replacement Miss Budweiser at the Gold Cup in Evansville, Ind. But after an accident in Syracuse virtually destroyed the boat, the team disbanded and the equipment was eventually sold off.

Notes about 2020: The Sutphen Spirit ran at the Diamond Cup and the Gold Cup.

Resources

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Intent to Build Form
Hull Inspection Form
Master Hull Roster (1/10 scale)
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Results (prior to 2025)
Driver of Year Award
ERCU Triple Crown

Rules

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1/10 scale vintage
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Copyright © 2025 Electric Radio Controlled Unlimiteds
  • Home
  • Schedule
    • Results
  • News
  • Boats
    • 1/10 Scale Vintage
    • 1/10 Scale Classic
    • 1/10 Scale Modern
    • 1/7 Scale Vintage
    • 1/7 Scale Classic
    • 1/7 Scale Modern
  • Stats
  • 2025 Rules
  • Photos
  • Resources
    • About/Contact Us
    • Chair Chatter
    • Registration
    • Winter Meetings
    • ERCU Documents
    • For Sale
    • Club History >
      • Blogspot
      • Newsletters
  • Sponsorship