Nearly 46 years after a young Jimmie Johnson first experienced the Atlas Van Lines Blue Blaster hydroplane as a child, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion returned to the water for a powerful tribute to Bill Muncey on August 1 in Seattle. Johnson, now 49, piloted the restored Blue Blaster during Seattle’s Seafair weekend, reaching speeds close to 100 miles per hour in honor of Muncey’s legacy.
Immersed in History and Speed During Special Exhibition Run
On Lake Washington, Johnson captured the essence of Muncey’s dominant racing spirit from the 1970s and early 1980s. The Blue Blaster, weighing 5,600 pounds and powered by a 2,500-horsepower Merlin engine—the same type that propelled British Spitfire fighter planes during World War II—was meticulously restored after 30 years. Johnson’s commanding run thrilled fans lining the shoreline and filling the Carvana grandstand, bringing renewed energy to the hydroplane’s storied past.
Climbing into the Blue Blaster was such a full circle moment,
Johnson reflected post-event.
The power, the history, the speed – it’s was pure adrenaline. It was such an honor to pay tribute to a hero of mine, a legend of the sport and to the Muncey family – this event was 46 years in the making.
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Champion
The hydroplane’s unique handling contrasted sharply with Johnson’s racing background. He noted the challenging sensation as the boat seemed eager to lift off the water, contrasting the downforce experienced on land vehicles.
The speed in the water was so much greater than it is on land. In a car the faster you go the (downforce) just plants the car to the pavement, in the boat, the faster I went the more I thought it was going to fly away. It was absolutely wild.
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Champion
Support from the Muncey Family and Hydroplane Community
Johnson expressed deep gratitude toward the Muncey family, including Bill Muncey’s wife Fran and son Edward, for their support in making the tribute possible. He also acknowledged several key individuals and organizations instrumental in the event’s success.
I’m so thankful to the Muncey family and Carvana for their support,
Johnson said.
Even my Dad (Gary Johnson) made the trip to Seattle to see this thing go full circle. Chip Hanauer, David Williams and the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum here in Washington, the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (Daytona Beach, Fla.), Seafair, were all so great to work with, so I’m just thankful to all who made this dream a reality for me.
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Champion
Expert Crew Chief and Historic Connections on the Water
Johnson was supported by crew chief Chip Hanauer, a legendary name in Unlimited Hydroplane racing, who holds a record 11 APBA Gold Cup victories. Hanauer previously piloted the famed Miss Budweiser hydroplane, which once even paced Johnson’s racing efforts in the 1990s. Hanauer also has a connection to the Blue Blaster, having raced it after Muncey’s passing in 1981.
During the exhibition, Johnson even extended his time on the course by an extra lap, earning a ‘black flag’ from event officials. This nod echoed Richard Petty’s similar moment at Darlington Raceway in 2017, when he chose to run an additional lap in a throwback car, further blending hydroplane tradition with racing lore.
Revitalizing a Historic Hydroplane Experience for Fans
Spectators at Seafair and those watching the H1 Unlimited YouTube stream were treated to a dynamic display of skill and passion. Johnson’s confident handling suggested a natural affinity with the Blue Blaster, allowing the spirit of Bill Muncey’s racing days to live on vividly in the present. The event symbolized not just a tribute, but a connection across generations within American motorsport.
A detailed behind-the-scenes video of the day is expected soon on Johnson’s YouTube channel, while footage of the run can be viewed starting at 2:59:26 in the H1 Unlimited stream, offering fans an immersive look at this unique homage.
The Enduring Impact of Johnson’s Tribute and Blue Blaster Revival
Jimmie Johnson’s tribute to Bill Muncey with the Blue Blaster extends beyond mere nostalgia; it underscores the lasting influence of hydroplane racing legends and the technological advancements embedded in the sport. By bringing the Blue Blaster back to life and sharing it with a new generation of fans, Johnson helps preserve an important chapter of racing history while inspiring future competitors and enthusiasts alike.
