Jimmie Johnson’s hydroplane ride honors legend Bill Muncey in a dynamic event blending motorsport history and personal tribute on the waters of Seattle’s Lake Washington. On August 2, 2025, the NASCAR champion took the cockpit of the famed Atlas Van Lines “Blue Blaster,” offering a passionate homage to Muncey, the acclaimed “Greatest Hydroplane Racer.”
A Racing Icon Takes the Helm of a Legend’s Machine
Racing runs deep in the blood of anyone who loves engines, and for decades, hydroplane boats have sped across American waters captivating crowds. The recent collaborative effort by Carvana Racing, Legacy Motor Club, and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America culminated in Jimmie Johnson piloting one of Bill Muncey’s most storied crafts — the Atlas Van Lines hydroplane, known affectionately as the “Blue Blaster.” This boat, raced famously in 1977, played a crucial role in Muncey’s storied career where he achieved 62 race wins, secured eight Gold Cups, dominated with seven National Championships, and clinched four World Championships.
The event was held during Seafair in Seattle, at the Ted Jones Racecourse along Lake Washington. For Johnson, the opportunity fulfilled a childhood dream, as he and his father had watched Muncey race over four decades ago. Sitting behind the wheel of the same boat he once admired as a boy, Johnson experienced a rare, full-circle moment blending nostalgia, respect, and high-octane excitement.
Experiencing the Power and Challenge of Hydroplane Racing
Jimmie Johnson, most recognized for his time behind the wheel on asphalt, found the world of hydroplane racing both exhilarating and daunting. His firsthand account revealed the intensity and physicality demanded by these watercraft, which differ greatly from cars. Johnson candidly admitted the learning curve was steep, yet the excitement was palpable as he rounded Lake Washington in the historic boat for nearly six laps. Despite early hiccups adjusting to the nuances of the hydroplane, he grasped the handling quickly, eventually reaching speeds rumored to top 140 miles per hour — an adrenaline surge amplified by the vessel’s proximity to the water and lack of safety restraints found in racecars.
Reflecting on the moment, Johnson remarked,
I was hoping to get the boat started quickly and drive off like a professional. And I didn’t quite have that part under control. I was really surprised how physical it is inside the boat. The way the boat digs in and starts hopping and bouncing. The sensation of speed on water is way greater than on asphalt. Plus, the vulnerability of being in a boat, especially one that doesn’t have a seat belt. I couldn’t see it from the cockpit, but I can’t wait to watch some video to see how big the roostertail was and to see the spray was in the corner.
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Champion
Moments like these show that even the most decorated drivers can feel renewed excitement — and even rookie nerves — when sailing into a different discipline. The thrill of the water, the vibrating craft, and the rush of speed provided Johnson with an unforgettable experience that he described as a personal bucket-list item.
Remembering the Unparalleled Legacy of Bill Muncey
Bill Muncey stands as a towering figure in the world of hydroplane racing, his career woven into the fabric of the sport for more than thirty years. As an International Motorsports Hall of Famer, Muncey’s legacy is cemented by an outstanding record: eight Gold Cups, seven U.S. National Championships, and four World Championships. His prowess extended beyond the cockpit, with Muncey and his wife, Fran, managing their own team, Bill Muncey Racing, and securing six High Points Championships during their tenure.
Despite his untimely passing in a tragic blowover crash in Mexico in 1981, Muncey’s influence continued through his widow, Fran, who carried on the team’s spirit and guided the revered “Blue Blaster” until 1984. Subsequently, the boat enjoyed several sponsorship changes, including a stint as the Miller American, and later Miller High Life, reflecting the deep connections across varied motorsports communities, including NASCAR. Bobby Allison and designer Sam Bass were among those tying NASCAR and hydroplane histories together under the Miller High Life banner. In 1988, the team welcomed a new chapter under the Circus Circus brand.
Muncey’s enduring impact is felt through more than just statistics; he symbolizes a relentless passion for speed, innovation, and sportsmanship. The ongoing remembrance and tributes — such as Johnson’s ride — reinforce the significance of preserving racing history and the profound bonds that span generations of motorsport enthusiasts.
A Full-Circle Moment Linking Generations Through Racing
Jimmie Johnson’s hydroplane ride resonates far beyond the spectacle itself, representing a heartfelt homage to his childhood hero, a tribute to racing history, and a showcase of the deep camaraderie that defines motorsports. As Johnson took the helm of the iconic Atlas Van Lines hydroplane on Lake Washington, he brought together the memories of Muncey’s heyday with the dreams of a new generation of fans and drivers. The event vividly illustrated how legends are honored not only through trophies and records but also by personal gestures that revive and rejuvenate the spirit of competition.
This thrilling experience at Seafair not only honored Bill Muncey’s remarkable achievements but also underscored the importance of celebrating and preserving stories that connect the past, present, and future of racing. As both Johnson and fans reflect on this extraordinary ride, the excitement and respect for these legendary figures continue to fuel the competitive fires of motorsport, promising to inspire further dream moments and tributes for years to come.
