An excellent racer on the North American hydroplane racing circuit becomes a full-time pilot in the Grand Prix class for next season.
The Grand Prix-class GP-39 Megavolt, which was piloted by Scott Liddycoat at the HRL 2019 in Detroit, will be piloted by Bobby King next season.
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Schaller Racing has announced that Bobby King will drive the GP-39 Megavolt craft in 2023 in the Hydroplane Racing League and Grand Prix America (GPA) series. The Port Huron, Michigan resident has driven the GP-50 Intensity/Freedom a few times as a backup driver over the past few seasons.
Bobby King distinguished himself mainly in the Hydro 350 class last summer when he took the honours in the finals on Friday and Sunday at the 82nd Valleyfield Regattas aboard the H-242 LDC Construction. The son of the legendary Jimmy King also triumphed at the North Tonawanda Regatta (N.Y.) in HRL and he was dominant in the Pro-Lite Hydroplane series.
Jimmy Shane was supposed to pilot the GP-39 Megavolt in 2022 but the “Schaller Racing” team ultimately took a year off due to delays in parts delivery. Maryann Schaller told The Southwest Voice that the Grand Prix boat will definitely be in Cambridge (Maryland), Detroit (Michigan) and Valleyfield. As for the other events of the season, a decision will be made based on the team’s performance.
The GP-39 Megavolt was purchased from George Kennedy in 2019 and Scott Liddycoat was the pilot for the boat’s first outings. The Jones designed hydroplane performed well for several seasons in the Unlimited Light class.
