APBA Gold Cup
The APBA Gold Cup (originally known simply as the Gold Cup, a speedboat race) is an American hydroplane boat race, named for the American Power Boat Association. It is now run as part of the H1 Unlimited season. First run in 1904, it is the oldest trophy in motorsports.
| Event information | |
|---|---|
| Type | H1 Unlimited hydroplane boat race |
| Race area | rotating sites |
| Dates | August 4-6, 2023 |
| First race | 1904 |
| Website | H1 Unlimited Hydroplane Racing Series |
| Results | |
| Winner (2023) | U-8 Strong Racing Driver - J. Michael Kelly |
Starting in 1904, the Gold Cup consist of three heats, and starting in 1918 the heat distance was 30 statute miles. In 1963 the number of heats was increased to four, but the total distance was reduced to 60 statute miles. In 1976, the Unlimited Racing Commission adopted a winner-take-all format for all its races including the APBA Gold Cup. In 1981 the total number of heats was reduced to three with the total distance being reduced to 45 statute miles. Since 1983 the Gold Cup has been competed at various total distances ranging from 36 statute miles to 52.5 statute miles.
The driver with the most Gold Cup victories is Chip Hanauer, with 11 victories. Dave Villwock is second, with 10, and Bill Muncey is third, with eight.