Dave Villwock, winningest driver ever, announces retirement
Kennewick, Washington — After more than three decades of rewriting the record books and setting the gold standard in hydroplane racing, Dave Villwock, the most successful driver in H1 Unlimited history, has officially announced his retirement from competition.
With an unprecedented 68 career victories, 11 Gold Cup titles, and 10 National High Point Championships, Villwock’s name is synonymous with excellence. His technical precision, fierce competitiveness, and leadership on and off the water have made him one of the sport’s most respected figures.
Villwock’s final season came with BWR Racing, where he guided the team to its first-ever APBA Gold Cup victory in 2025, a fitting finale for one of racing’s most accomplished drivers.
As he said in a statement announcing his retirement:
“I was privileged and excited to help get the new team BWR started last year and was blessed with another Gold Cup win, which would be the first for this fantastic new team.
I committed to drive for one year, which is complete and I couldn’t have asked for more.
After over 30 years of driving these awesome boats it’s time to step away and enjoy some other passions like family, home, and model airplanes.
All of which helped me enjoy the successes I’ve had over the years.
I owe so much to so many including my lovely wife.
I so enjoyed racing boats for Apollo, the Ratchford family and all the Apollo employees at all the Apollo companies.
I wish Jimmy Shane and all the BWR team members the very best and will be there to help anytime Bruce or the BWR team needs it.
Thank you to all the fans and race team members for all of their support and dedication for so many years.”
A Legacy that defined a generation
Villwock’s journey began in the 1980s, working in race shops before moving into the driver’s seat, a transition that would change the course of the sport. Behind the wheel of legendary boats such as Miss Budweiser, Miss E-Lam Plus, and Spirit of Qatar, he became a dominant force known for his unmatched preparation, precision, and relentless drive to win.
He helped modernize hydroplane racing through innovation and professionalism, setting performance standards that still define success in the sport today.
Even after a career-threatening injury in 1997, Villwock’s comeback became part of his legend, proof of the resilience and determination that made him one of motorsports’ toughest competitors.
Recognition beyond the water
Villwock’s impact on racing excellence continues to be celebrated. He will be formally inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in March 2026, an honor recognizing his unmatched achievements and lifelong contribution to the sport of hydroplane racing.
A word from the Team
Bruce Ratchford, owner of BWR Racing and president of Apollo Mechanical, expressed his appreciation for Villwock’s role in the team’s first year:
“Dave’s experience, focus, and attention to detail were instrumental in helping BWR Racing take shape and succeed right out of the gate. His knowledge of the boats, his calm confidence under pressure, and his commitment to excellence set the tone for our entire program.
We’re grateful for everything he’s brought to our team and wish him all the best as he transitions into this next chapter.”
An enduring influence
“Dave Villwock’s record speaks for itself,” said H1 Unlimited Chairman Mike Denslow. “He changed how people race these boats and how teams operate. His name will forever be a benchmark in our sport.”
Villwock leaves the cockpit but not the community he helped build. He remains a trusted voice within BWR Racing and continues to inspire both current and future generations of hydroplane competitors.
Dave Villwock, winningest driver ever, announces retirement
Kennewick, Washington — After more than three decades of rewriting the record books and setting the gold standard in hydroplane racing, Dave Villwock, the most successful driver in H1 Unlimited history, has officially announced his retirement from competition.
With an unprecedented 68 career victories, 11 Gold Cup titles, and 10 National High Point Championships, Villwock’s name is synonymous with excellence. His technical precision, fierce competitiveness, and leadership on and off the water have made him one of the sport’s most respected figures.
Villwock’s final season came with BWR Racing, where he guided the team to its first-ever APBA Gold Cup victory in 2025, a fitting finale for one of racing’s most accomplished drivers.
As he said in a statement announcing his retirement:
“I was privileged and excited to help get the new team BWR started last year and was blessed with another Gold Cup win, which would be the first for this fantastic new team.
I committed to drive for one year, which is complete and I couldn’t have asked for more.
After over 30 years of driving these awesome boats it’s time to step away and enjoy some other passions like family, home, and model airplanes.
All of which helped me enjoy the successes I’ve had over the years.
I owe so much to so many including my lovely wife.
I so enjoyed racing boats for Apollo, the Ratchford family and all the Apollo employees at all the Apollo companies.
I wish Jimmy Shane and all the BWR team members the very best and will be there to help anytime Bruce or the BWR team needs it.
Thank you to all the fans and race team members for all of their support and dedication for so many years.”
A Legacy that defined a generation
Villwock’s journey began in the 1980s, working in race shops before moving into the driver’s seat, a transition that would change the course of the sport. Behind the wheel of legendary boats such as Miss Budweiser, Miss E-Lam Plus, and Spirit of Qatar, he became a dominant force known for his unmatched preparation, precision, and relentless drive to win.
He helped modernize hydroplane racing through innovation and professionalism, setting performance standards that still define success in the sport today.
Even after a career-threatening injury in 1997, Villwock’s comeback became part of his legend, proof of the resilience and determination that made him one of motorsports’ toughest competitors.
Recognition beyond the water
Villwock’s impact on racing excellence continues to be celebrated. He will be formally inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in March 2026, an honor recognizing his unmatched achievements and lifelong contribution to the sport of hydroplane racing.
A word from the Team
Bruce Ratchford, owner of BWR Racing and president of Apollo Mechanical, expressed his appreciation for Villwock’s role in the team’s first year:
“Dave’s experience, focus, and attention to detail were instrumental in helping BWR Racing take shape and succeed right out of the gate. His knowledge of the boats, his calm confidence under pressure, and his commitment to excellence set the tone for our entire program.
We’re grateful for everything he’s brought to our team and wish him all the best as he transitions into this next chapter.”
An enduring influence
“Dave Villwock’s record speaks for itself,” said H1 Unlimited Chairman Mike Denslow. “He changed how people race these boats and how teams operate. His name will forever be a benchmark in our sport.”
Villwock leaves the cockpit but not the community he helped build. He remains a trusted voice within BWR Racing and continues to inspire both current and future generations of hydroplane competitors.