San Diego, California – September 10, 2025 – The roar of H1 hydroplanes returns to Mission Bay this weekend for San Diego Bayfair, powered by Samson Rope, from September 12-14, 2025. Fans are in for a treat with one of the world’s fastest race courses, showcasing speeds topping 200 mph, and a nail-biting battle for the Bill Muncey Cup on Sunday.
What to Expect
This three-day event features testing, qualifying, heat racing, and the grand Bill Muncey Cup final. Mission Bay’s unique, dredged racecourse offers spectacular shoreline views of the fastest boats on water. Beyond the races, enjoy a festival vibe with live entertainment, food vendors, and family activities. Historic moments include Bill Muncey’s 140+ mph lap in 1980 and Dave Villwock’s still-standing 173.384 mph record from 1999.
Championship on the Line
With less than 800 points separating the top five drivers, every lap counts. Leading the pack is Andrew Tate (U-91 Miss Goodman Real Estate), though a 2024 disqualification looms large. Defending champion Corey Peabody (U-9 Beacon Plumbing) aims to extend his San Diego streak, while J. Michael Kelly (U-8 Beacon Electric), a three-time Bayfair winner, and record-holder Dave Villwock (U-27 Miss Apollo) bring experience. Jamie Nilsen (U-11 Miss FLAV-R-PAC) could be the dark horse. H1 chairman Mike Denslow calls it “one of the most exciting stops of the season.”
Event Details
- When: September 12-14, 2025
- Where: Mission Bay, San Diego, CA
- Tickets & Info: SanDiegoBayfair.org
- Livestream: H1Unlimited.com or YouTube channel: H1 Unlimited
Powered by Samson Rope, known for unmatched strength, this event promises thrills and history. Don’t miss it!
John Moore’s involvement in powerboat racing began in 1981 when he competed in his first offshore powerboat race. After a career as a Financial Futures broker in the City of London, specialising in UK interest rate markets, he became actively involved in event organisation and powerboat racing journalism.
He served as Event Director for the Cowes–Torquay–Cowes races between 2010 and 2013. In 2016, he launched Powerboat Racing World, a digital platform providing global powerboat racing news and insights. The following year, he co-founded UKOPRA, helping to rejuvenate offshore racing in the United Kingdom. He sold Powerboat Racing World in late 2021 and remained actively involved with UKOPRA until 2025.
In 2025, he established Powerboat News, returning to independent journalism with a focus on neutral and comprehensive coverage of the sport.