Dean Chenoweth Memorial race report is posted

Posted 07/09/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

It's time for the next race report! The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC battled the wind for the second race of a doubleheader weekend in Ellensburg for the Dean Chenoweth Memorial. Check out all the action at the race report here!

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Columbia Cup tickets NOW AVAILABLE

Posted 06/27/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Columbia Cup ticket offer available to R/CU members is now available at the Columbia Cup page. Please fill out the form per the directions listed on the page in order to procure your tickets, and please pay no later than July 14th! Jason Walters is the contact this year, and his address is listed on the form.

​

Remember, in order to enter the park prior to 8 AM you need the early access vehicle pass, and if you want to park at the lagoon you need this as well!

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Rose Cup race report is posted

Posted 06/26/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

It's time for the next race report! The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC battled the wind for the first race of a doubleheader weekend in Ellensburg for the Rose Cup.Check out all the action at the race report here!

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President's Cup race report is posted

Posted 06/24/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

Thank you for your patience in this race report! The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC made its first trip west in early June, to a rainy Tacoma. Check out all the action at the race report here!

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Doubleheader weekend! Pre-race info is posted

Posted 06/11/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

R/CU's 50th Anniversary Season rolls on with the first doubleheader weekend in quite some time! The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC comes back to Ellensburg with a full race on Saturday, and a full race on Sunday. Be sure to check out the pre-race circular for all you need to know about this full weekend of racing action!

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R/CU merchandise available

Posted 05/28/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

Thanks to Steve Roman and his family, there is shirts and hats available for sale in celebration of R/CU's 50th Anniversary Season. They are customizable with you name, a variety of colors, and sizes. The online link can be found at:

​

https://rewyrddesigns.com/shop/ols/products/rcu-50th-anniversary-shirt

​

Steve has also offered to assist in processing orders by emailing him directly (msteve0351@yahoo.com). You can also speak to him at all races this year. 

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For the first time in 2024, R/CU heads west

Posted 05/28/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

R/CU's 50th Anniversary Season rolls on with the first trip west of the mountains of the year. The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC comes back to Lake Waughop in Lakewood, just outside of Tacoma. This will be a 1-day race, so be sure to check out the pre-race circular for all you need to know about Sunday!

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Champion Spark Plug Regatta race report is posted

Posted 05/27/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC returned to Finley for the third race of the 2024 season. Check out the full race report, including a Hall-of-Fame addition and some spectacular crash footage here!

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Bill Muncey Memorial race report is posted

Posted 05/16/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC had a blustery day in Ellensburg for the second race of the 2024 season. Check out the action with the full race report here!

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Champion Spark Plug Regatta race circular is posted

Posted 05/15/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC returns to the Tri-Cities this weekend with the Champion Spark Plug Regatta! Check out the next battle in R/CU's 50th Anniversary Season at Two Rivers Park. All this information and more at the prerace circular available at the link here!

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Looking for help for prospective new member in Oregon

Posted 04/24/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

We received an email from a prospective new member in Astoria, Oregon. Todd Breda writes:  "I have a 1/8 scale 1982 Pay N' Pak that was recently built for me.  The setup is electric but I need someone's help with experience to help me finish it up to become RTR.  I don't know much about hydroplane electric setup.  I have everything I think I need.  Motor, ESC, rudder, fin, Futaba radio and a receiver but I just don't quite know how to put it all together to run the boat successfully.  I could really use someone's help with the knowledge of these FE boats."

​

Along with the resources available at our Links page, we'd appreciate if any R/CU members (particularly in Oregon) would reach out to Todd at toddbreda@gmail.com.

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First time to Ellensburg in 2024

Posted 04/24/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC heads to central Washington, as the 50th Anniversary Season continues in Ellensburg for the Bill Muncey Memorial. Check out the pre-race circular here!

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Atomic Cup race report is posted

Posted 04/23/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The race report from the season-opening Atomic Cup has been posted here!

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Time for racing in 2024!

Posted 04/08/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The 50th season for the Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC kicks off this weekend, just outside the Tri-Cities at Two Rivers Park! It is the opening race, the Atomic Cup, also the first race of the 2024 Triple Crown.

​

For all you need to know including schedule, fees, RV camping, new boat status and more, check out the pre-race circular by clicking this link!

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Returning for 2024: the Meyers Autotech  Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC!

Posted 04/01/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

For the 12th consecutive year, R/CU is thrilled to have Meyers Autotech as the presenting sponsor of the Meyers Autotech Championship Series and R/CU! Meyers Autotech was previously owned by R/CU member Scott Meyers, but continues this day as one of the best small businesses in the Yakima Valley. Located in Kennewick, Meyers Autotech has established themselves as an amazing local mechanic, specializing in everything needed to make your ride comfortable. See more information at https://www.meyersautotech.com/.

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But that's not all!

​

For the 9th consecutive year, R/CU will be powered by Rattlesnake RC! Locally owned and founded by Bill Brandt, current member in R/CU, Rattlesnake RC is the leading online store for specialty R/C boat parts, particularly for scale hydroplane racing. For anyone constructing and planning to race R/C boats, Rattlesnake RC is your go-to for all those niche products that you can't find anywhere else. Check it out at https://www.allrc1.com/.

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Schedule confirmed for 2024

Posted 04/01/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The 2024 schedule is now confirmed! It remains the same as the previous version, posted in February. The season kicks off in less than two weeks, with the traditional season-opening Atomic Cup just outside of the Tri-Cities. After the second race in Ellensburg, we return to Finley in mid-May. Following this race, we go west to Tacoma, then a unique double-header in Ellensburg in the middle of June. A final tune-up in the middle of July in Ellensburg, before we return to the Tri-Cities Water Follies at the end of July. To wrap up the year, we make a final trip to Ellensburg, then head west for two races in Tacoma and Monroe. The final race wraps up 2024 in Chelan in September. 

​

We look forward to seeing you at the pond this summer!

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Fuel buy pickup update

Posted 03/20/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Torco fuel from the R/CU Fuel Buy has arrived, and we'd like to coordinate all of the pickup at this weekend's 50th Anniversary Celebration. If you are attending, please arrive a little early to pick up your fuel. If you are not attending, please arrange with someone to pick up your fuel. If you have further concerns or questions, please contact Gary Grembowski at ggrembo21@gmail.com.

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It's almost here: R/CU's 50th Anniversary Celebration!

Posted 03/18/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

We are hoping to see everyone at R/C Unlimited’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.

​

If you are a former or current member of R/C Unlimiteds, another R/C club in the region, or are just a fan of unlimited hydroplanes, you are invited.

​

The big event is THIS SATURDAY, March 23rd, 4:00-8:00pm at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent.

The event is free and will feature pizza provided by R/C Unlimiteds. There will be a no-host bar featuring pop, beer and wine with all proceeds going to the Museum. Cash and credit accepted at the bar.

​

The highlight of the evening will be a feature video by Don Mock – 50 Years of R/CU. There will also be a display of R/CU raceboats from over the years.

​

To help us plan, please register using the following link or email Gary Grembowski at ggrembo21@gmail.com.

Or just show up at the Museum at 4:00pm on Saturday.

See you then and help us celebrate!

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Less than three weeks before the 50th Anniversary Celebration

Posted 03/04/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

We are less than three weeks away from R/CU’s 50th Anniversary Celebration at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum! The event is Saturday, March 23rd from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.

​

So far, we have 50 people registered, so plenty of room for more.

We need your help though.  If you have contacts with previous R/CU Members, please let them know about the event.

​

We would like to see our former racers, or current racers with our sister clubs.

​

The event is free and R/CU will be providing pizza for attendees. There will be a no-host bar with proceeds going the Museum.

All we ask is that you tell us you are coming.

Please fill out the registration form: CLICK HERE.

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Last call for fuel buy

Posted 02/28/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

This is the last call for the Torco Fuel Buy for 2024. Your last chance to order is Sunday, March 3rd.

The order must be paid in full via the R/CU PayPal site.

The order will be going into Torco on Monday, March 4th.

The pick up for your fuel will be determined at a later date.

It will depend on the arrival date of the fuel.

We will post the pick-up information when available.

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Roger Newton Memorial Hydro Show set for Saturday, February 10

Posted 02/04/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

This coming Saturday is the Roger Newton Memorial Hydro Show at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent, WA. This event is open to all, with a recommended $25 donation to the museum. It will be held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with a hot lunch available for sale. For those who have never attended, this is a great opportunity to bring your boat, show off your winter projects, and "talk shop" with not only R/CU but the other scale hydro clubs in the region. Participants are asked to bring a table for their boats. We hope to see you there with your boat!

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Technical proposals as voted on the Board

Posted 01/22/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

Using the feedback provided by the Membership, the R/CU Board has announced the following results of the technical proposals. Be on the lookout for a 2024 Rulebook for all classes to be posted soon.

​

Fast Electric

Proposal #1 – Forward Motion

Proposal #1 was passed unanimously.  The rules will be updated that if a FE boat stops prior to picking up the score up buoy, they will be disqualified from the heat.  Also, if a FE boat stops on the course, they must regain forward motion prior to the last place boat finishing.

Proposal #2 – Rewinding of Stock FE Motors

Proposal #2 passed unanimously with enforcement using option #1.  It will be illegal to rewind a stock approved FE motor.  Enforcement will be handled with the existing rules and process for measuring motor output.

Proposal #3 – Addition of NEU 1527 1.5Y 815KV to approved motor list

Proposal #3 was tabled with no action taken.  The Board felt it was unnecessary to add this motor to the list.  The motor already qualifies under existing rules.

Gas Scale

Proposal #1 – expand max cc to 34.99

Proposal #1 was tabled with no action taken.  The feedback from membership showed no support for this change.  The current max cc remain in place.

Proposal #2 – Air holes limited to 2 square inches

Proposal #2 was rejected unanimously by the Board.  Air holes will be limited to as they appeared in the real boat.  No additional air holes will be allowed.

In addition, the Board voted in favor of trying a change to the start procedure.  It will be tried at one race during the year and announced well beforehand.  The start procedure will closely mimic current H1 rules.  Start lanes must be established at the entrance pin to turn 3. (Current H1 rule).  There will be no lane changes between the entry pin to turn 3 and the start line.  In addition, there will be no cutting of the course following the 30 second mark.

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New R/CU logo to celebrate 50 years

Posted 01/16/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

Happy New Year and welcome to 2024!

​

This is a big year for R/CU as it is our 50th season as the premier scale R/C Hydroplane Club in the world.

​

Special thanks to Matt Johnson who has created our special 50th anniversary logo, which will be featured proudly on our website and across our social media channels.

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2024 draft schedule posted, details on Roger Newton Memorial Model Show confirmed

Posted 01/15/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

There's been many asking for it, and we're happy to post the 2024 DRAFT schedule on the Schedule tab of the website! 

​

As noted, this is a draft schedule. The R/CU Board is hard at work to confirm this schedule, as well as confirm the one race that is currently listed as TBD for the location.

​

Please note that there are 2 events that are CONFIRMED at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent, WA.

First off is the annual Roger Newton Memorial Model Show, scheduled for Saturday, February 10th. It will be from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. The museum will again be selling a hot lunch. Participants are asked to bring tables for their set up and encouraged to donate $25 to the museum as an entry fee. This is a great opportunity to show off your winter projects, "bench race," and talk shop as we prepare for the 2024 season!

​

The next confirmed event is R/CU's 50th Anniversary Celebration at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent, WA. Scheduled for Saturday, March 23rd, this event will be open to all! We would like to welcome all past and current R/CU members for an afternoon/evening of reminiscing and celebration. The event will also be open to all R/C racers from other clubs and hydroplane fans in general.

Watch for further updates and registration on the R/C Unlimiteds website and Facebook page for more details on the 50th Anniversary Celebration.

​

Any questions? Contact R/CU's chairman, Gary Grembowski, at ggrembo21@gmail.com or by contacting the website at the link above and to the right.

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Doug Kirk memorial and remembrance

Posted 01/14/2024

By: rcuwebmaster

​

R/CU is saddened to pass along some news from Greg Roth:

​

“It is with great sadness that I pass on the news that Doug Kirk passed away. He was a long time Dist 8 and UNW member. Many years ago I remember him with his young son racing his B stock tunnel at events. He then got the scale bug and was one of the top competitors and served on the UNW board. He also won the largest scale race I have ever attended! We will miss you captain Kirk.”

​

Doug's memorial will be at the Northshore Church in Kirkland (https://northshore.church/) on Sunday, February 18th at 2:00 PM.

​

His obituary can be found at the link here: https://obituaries.neptunesociety.com/obituaries/lynnwood-wa/douglas-kirk-11610134.

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2024 R/CU annual registration fees and January Tri-Annuals due January 31st

Posted 01/14/2024

By: R/CU Registrar, Steve Roman

​

On the Members' page of the website, the latest R/CU Registry has been updated and posted. If you need the password to this page, please contact the webmaster at the email above and to the right.

​

Tri-Annual fees are for boats in developmental status, and are collected to ensure members are not sitting on registrations with no intent to build/race them. These fees are listed in the chart, and are due for February by January 31st.

​

The yearly registration fees are due for every boat at the beginning of the year, and are also due January 31st. 

​

You can pay via the payment methods listed on the Members' page.

​

Any questions? Contact Steve Roman at (msteve0351@yahoo.com, or 360-870-3317).

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2024 R/CU rules proposals

Posted 12/5/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The 2024 R/CU Rulebook revision proposals as collected by the R/CU Board has been posted to the Members' page. Please contact the webmaster at the link above and to the right if you need the password.

​

The R/CU Board is asking for your opinion on these proposals to assist in determining if these proposals should be enacted. As a result, we are trying something a little different: an online comment section through the website. Please follow the instructions listed on the Members' page in order to provide your opinion. The Board thanks for your efforts in providing feedback.

​

If there are any questions about this comment section, please contact Geoffry Grembowski via phone/social, or email at ggrembo5@yahoo.com.

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Save the date: March 23, 2024 at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum

Posted 11/29/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

In 1974, unlimited hydroplane racing debuted its first competitive turbine hydroplane.  Howie Benns took over the seat in the Miss Budweiser.  New boats were on tap for Lincoln Thrift and Miss U.S.

​

Also, a small group of hydroplane and radio control enthusiasts, led by Roger Newton, founded a new racing club – R/C Unlimiteds.

​

2024 marks 50 years from that humble beginning and R/C Unlimiteds wants to celebrate!

​

Save the date of Saturday, March 23, 2024 for a celebration at the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent, WA.

​

We want to invite all current and former R/C Unlimiteds members, racers from other R/C clubs, and all lovers of R/C and hydroplanes.

​

Watch this space for more information to come in the coming weeks/months!

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October Tri-Annuals and upcoming yearly registration fees 

Posted 11/23/2023

By: R/CU Registrar, Steve Roman

​

On the Members' page of the website, the latest R/CU Registry has been updated and posted. If you need the password to this page, please contact the webmaster at the email above and to the right.

​

Tri-Annual fees are for boats in developmental status, and are collected to ensure members are not sitting on registrations with no intent to build/race them. These fees are listed in the chart, and are due now.

​

The yearly registration fees are due for every boat at the beginning of the year, and are due in January. 

​

You can pay via the payment methods listed on the Members' page.

​

Any questions? Contact Steve Roman at (msteve0351@yahoo.com, or 360-870-3317).

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Call for FE and gas class technical rules proposals

Posted 10/24/2023

By: The R/CU Board

​

Per the R/CU rulebooks, the Board will solicit any revisions to the FE and gas scale technical rules at this time. Proposals can be submitted anytime by December 1st, at which point the solicitation period will end and the technical rules will be finalized for the 2024 racing season. Submit any rules revisions to Gary Grembowski at ggrembo21@gmail.com.

​

The current rulebooks (including technical rules) can be found on the Rulebook page.

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Career points are updated

Posted 10/10/2023

By: R/CU Statistician, Beau Rarig

​

Career points in all three R/CU classes have been updated on the Statistics page. We will be updating all of the files on this page in short time, so please be on the lookout for updated stats!

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Roger Newton Gold Cup / Norm Evans Memorial race report is posted

Posted 10/04/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The last race of the season brought us to beautiful Lake Chelan, and the racing was intense as championships were on the line! Check out all the highlights from the Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC at the race report here!

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Congratulations to the 2023 R/CU season champions

Posted 09/27/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

After a long summer, the 2023 Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC is over. Congratulations to the season champions, who bested very competitive fields to take the titles!

​

1/8th Scale Nitro Driver: Kirk Maupin, 13658 points

The "Iceman" finally returned to the top after a five year absence. He collected his 7th title, the first since 2018, with a 1431 point advantage over second-place Steven Kinney. He won five races, including the Roger Newton Gold Cup.

​

1/8th Scale Nitro Boat: Steven Kinney's 1974 Miss U.S., 13552 points

Steven Kinney's Miss U.S. collected its first boat championship, with a 883 point victory over Brenda Brandt's 1978 Squire Shop (U-65). 

​

1/8th Scale Electric (FE) Driver: Don Mock, 15313 points

The "Ten Fingers of Doom" returned to the top after a one year absence. He collected his 3rd FE title, and 6th overall in R/CU, with a 1669 point advantage over Henry Oord. He won three races in 2023.

​

1/8th Scale Electric (FE) Boat: Henry Oord's 1983 Miss Houston, 15451 points

Henry Oord's 1983 Miss Houston collected its first boat championship, with a 1269 point advantage over Don Mock's 1985 Miller American. The boat won two races in 2023.

​

Gas Scale Driver: Dave Brandt, 13625 points

"Trooper Dave" backed up his 2022 title with one in 2023, with a 906 point advantage over Jim Whyte. It is his second gas title, and his 13th R/CU title. He won four races in 2023, including the Roger Newton Gold Cup.

​

Gas Scale Boat: Dave Brandt's 1983 KISW Miss Rock, 14425 points

The Miss Rock backed up his 2022 title with one in 2023, with a scant 205 point victory over Jim Whyte's 1978 Miss Mark and Pak. It is the boat's second gas title. It won four races in 2023, including the Roger Newton Gold Cup.

​

1/10th Scale Electric Driver: Brooklyn Kinney, 11347 points

Brooklyn collected her first title in her rookie season, with a 3895 point advantage over Geoffry Grembowski. She won three races in 2023.

​

1/10th Scale Electric Boat: Brooklyn Kinney's 1974 Miss U.S.

The Miss U.S. took the title with a dominant 5735 point advantage over Geoffry Grembowski's 2017 Spirit of Detroit. The boat won three races in 2023.

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Leftover items in Chelan

Posted 09/27/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

There were two tables that were leftover in Chelan. Fred Stock took these tables home. If these tables are yours, please contact Fred.

​

We also noticed a 2023 Acura key fob left in the pits. Please contact R/CU if this was your key.

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Apple Cup race report is posted

Posted 09/20/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Apple Cup was the penultimate race of the 2023 season, and it was certainly a doozy! Check out all the highlights from the Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC at the race report here!

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Chelan race circular is posted

Posted 09/18/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The 2023 Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC comes to a conclusion this weekend with the Roger Newton Gold Cup and Norm Evans Memorial in beautiful Chelan, WA. This is a 3-day affair packed with a lot of racing, the last bit of sunshine in the northwest, and honoring our late founder, the "Czar" Roger Newton. Check out the race circular posted under the Gold Cup / Norm Evans Memorial page for all the info. This is a big one, so please read carefully for race formats, schedules, procedures, and more!

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Apple Cup pre-race info is now posted

Posted 09/04/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC has its penultimate race of 2023, the Apple Cup in Monroe! Check out this document for all the info you need to know for the 10th race of year!

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Diamond Cup race recap is now posted

Posted 09/04/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC returned to Waughop Lake in Lakewood for the final time in 2023. Check out this link for all the info about what went down in Fort Steillacoom Park!

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Points competition heats up with 2 races to go

Posted 08/30/2023

By: R/CU Statistician, Beau Rarig

​

With just two races to go, the season-long points chases are heating up! In nitro, Kirk Maupin has taken a scant 1-point lead over Steven Kinney (prior to drops) in the nitro drivers' championship. Here's a list of all drivers still mathematically alive for the respective drivers' championships:

​

1/8th Scale Nitro:

Kirk Maupin
Steven Kinney

Dave Brandt
Jim Brittain
Gary Grembowski
Geoffry Grembowski
Scott Meyers
Brian Anderson

​

1/8th Scale Electric (FE):

Don Mock
Henry Oord
Bill Brandt
Paxton Reunanen

​

Gas Scale:

Jim Whyte
Dave Brandt
Henry Oord
Bill Brandt
Mike Henriksen

​

In other news, a few congratulations are in order. Brooklyn Kinney has clinched the 1/10th scale electric championship in her first year, congrats Brooklyn! Brian Anderson has made the Hall of Fame with over 150,000 career points scored in the nitro class, congrats Brian! And Conner Henriksen has clinched the R/CU Rookie of the Year for 2023, congrats Conner!

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Diamond Cup pre-race info is now posted

Posted 08/23/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC has its final trip of the year to Tacoma this weekend, with the Silver Cup up for grabs! Check out this document for all the info you need to know for the 9th race of year!

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Update on final two races in 2023

Posted 08/23/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

We wanted to share some updates for the final two races in 2023 in Monroe and Chelan.

​

For Monroe, there will be Saturday testing available with the traditional Sunday race day. The swim line will be in place, so the race course and scaffolding will be to the "right" (further east) to where we have located it previously. 

​

During this race weekend, freeway I-405 will be closed between Bellevue and Renton, so please plan accordingly.

​

For Chelan, there will be Friday testing available with racing on Saturday and Sunday. 

​

1/8th scale nitro, 1/8th scale electric (FE), and gas scale will be 6 preliminary heats (3 on Saturday, 3 on Sunday). Each driver can only drive one boat. There will be a winner-take-all final for each class for the Roger Newton Gold Cup. 

​

The Norm Evans Memorial trophy will be awarded to the highest point boat/driver of the weekend. This can come from any class.

​

1/10th scale electric will have 4 preliminary heats (2 on Saturday, 2 on Sunday), with a winner-take-all final on Sunday.

​

More information on both of these races will be posted soon.

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Silver Cup race report is now posted

Posted 08/22/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC returned to Ellensburg for the final time in 2023. It was a beautiful day to compete for the Silver Cup and you can read all about it here!

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Columbia Cup race report is now posted

Posted 08/08/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

The Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC returned to the Tri-Cities Water Follies for the R/CU Columbia Cup. A probable record of 64 boats were on hand to try and capture victories in four classes, and you can read all about it here!

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Updated registry posted to members' page

Posted 07/31/2023

By: R/CU Registrar, Steve Roman

​

The updated R/CU registry is posted to the members page here. Contact the webmaster at the link above right if you need the password.

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Bernie Little Memorial race report is now posted

Posted 07/25/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

In mid July, the Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC returned to Ellensburg for the Bernie Little Memorial. Nearly 50 boats were on hand to try and capture victories in four classes, and you can read all about it here!

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Columbia Cup important ticket info

Posted 07/24/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

Unfortunately, there was a slight mixup with distributed tickets/passes for the Columbia Cup with the Tri-Cities Water Follies. The tickets received and distributed to R/CU members are GA Passes and will not get you into the Unlimited/GP/Vintage/Inboard pit area. We are getting new passes prior to the weekend. If you want to get into the big boat pit are you will need to exchange your wrist band. You can do so at the R/CU race course setup at the Family Fishing Pond on Thursday, from 11:00-1:00. Or, you can do so during testing at the R/CU race course at the Family Fishing Pond on Friday or Saturday. Text Gary Grembowski at 206-949-0000 to meet on Friday or any other questions.

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Columbia Cup pre-race info is posted

Posted 07/24/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

​

It's among the biggest races of the year: the Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC joins the Tri-Cities Water Follies for the R/CU Columbia Cup.

​

Check out this pre-race document for all the info you need to be ready for the weekend! Included are the schedule (early Saturday start!), ticket info, and more!

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Thinking of Doug Kirk and Ron Cole

Posted 07/20/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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Please keep Doug Kirk and Ron Cole in your thoughts and prayers. Both racers are facing challenging health battles and we wish them both the absolute best. Both have been longtime scale racers in R/CU and other local clubs, and we'd appreciate everyone's concern for them and their families.

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Back to the Ellensburg for the Bernie Little Memorial

Posted 07/13/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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R/CU returns to Ellensburg for the next stop in the 2023 Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC.

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Check out this pre-race document for all the info you need to be ready for the weekend! Included are the schedule, RV info, and more!

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Rose Cup race report is now posted

Posted 07/08/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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In late June, the Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC returned to Ellensburg for the Rose Cup. Over 40 boats were on hand to try and capture victories in four classes, and you can read all about it here!

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Please participate in Washington State official watercraft inspection sites

Posted 06/29/2023

By: Marc Connelly

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First, I’d like to share a personal story relating to our responsibility as boatracers using the public lakes and ponds of Washington State for our fun. A few years ago, I quietly took it upon myself to try to re-establish the Governor’s Cup as an R/CU race event located in Olympia. I garnered the support of local parks and recreation officials, who were enthusiastic about the idea after witnessing a test run. I sought- and got- an agreement of participation from the Governor's office. If the calendar worked, the Governor would be happy to award the trophies. We were even promised the use of Capital Lake (instead of Percival Cove) where a new dock would be built in the park area on the southern shore (the dock is there now, waiting). LakeFair, our local annual community celebration, wanted us to be a keystone event in their weekend of fun and Mix 96FM wanted to do a live remote broadcast of our racing. (I had it all set up to be Rich Matkin’s ‘R/CU Radio Network’ on-air debut!) I had even planned a big R/CU barbeque in our back yard like the Brandts have so graciously hosted in the past. Man, you can tell that I was really getting cranked up about developing a full-tilt racing event. And I was getting there too… until somebody discovered that the New Zealand mud snail had invaded Capital Lake. At that point, in the span of just a couple of days, my little dream was dashed on the rocks. All use of Capital Lake was suspended until a biological solution could be found for this potent invasive species. The lake has remained closed to all public use for several years now.

When I get home from a race, it is my standard procedure to back flush my cooling hoses with a 10 percent bleach solution. (If we just raced in Lake Waughop, I also clean the gunky stuff off of my boat with the mild  bleach solution and I wear disposable gloves too!) I highly recommend this practice to my fellow racers. It only takes a minute or two to back flush from the water overboard outlet. Yes, I have been surprised a couple of times by what flushed out the rudder intake. The first time you flush some muddy gunk out of your rudder, the bleach flush will become a regular part of your post-race decommissioning process too. 

When I see the sign on the freeway that instructs all vehicles with watercraft to be inspected at Exit 80, I pull off  the freeway and participate- every time. And every time, I ask if any of my fellow racers have stopped for the inspection too. “Nope“ is the inevitable answer, and this disappoints me. Those inspection sites serve a purpose that supports our access to statewide racing. If you are toting a watercraft- and you are- participation really isn‘t optional.  We should participate- not just to be responsible citizens- but also to do our part to help preserve access to our precious racing waters. My experience in trying to set up the return of the Governor’s Cup illustrated just how fragile our access to lakes and ponds really is.

In three weeks, we will be back at Irene Reinhardt Park, racing on a beautiful pond that is fed by, and drains back into, the Yakima River. The Yakima River is of far greater concern to the Department of Natural Resources than is Capital Lake. We could lose access to that body- or any public body- of water so very easily. The Ellensburg race site is already host to one invasive species- millfoil. Who knows how it got there?

To use the classic words of the Peace Corps, “If you are not a part of the solution, then you are part of the problem.“  Acknowledging this reality, I urge all of my fellow racers to be a part of the solution so that we might avoid the problem altogether. Back flush your boats after every race, then rinse off your boots, too. And please stop for the two minute watercraft inspection. When I stop at the exit 80 inspection site in three weeks, I hope to hear that many- if not all- of my fellow west side R/CU racers have stopped for the inspection too. That won’t revive my Governor’s Cup dream, but it sure would make me feel better about trying.

Thank you for your help, it really does make a difference.

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Several nitro boats and equipment for sale by Mike Cathey

Posted 06/20/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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Mike Cathey is simplifying his racing program and is selling several turn-key nitro boats, equipment, and more. Check out his post at the For Sale page!

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Columbia Cup ticket forms are now posted

Posted 06/20/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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Many have been asking about at, and we're excited to announce that the ticket forms for the Columbia Cup in the Tri-Cities, July 27-30, are now posted on the Columbia Cup page.

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They can also be accessed here: WORD DOCUMENT or PDF DOCUMENT

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These forms are specialty offers for R/CU Members only, and please note that the Early-Access car pass is required if you want to race at the R/CU Columbia Cup in Columbia Park on Saturday, July 29.

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Please download the form, pay via Paypal or check, and send the filled-out form with a self-addressed, stamped envelope, no later than July 15th to Jason Walters. His address is listed in the form.

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Back to the Ellensburg for the Rose Cup

Posted 06/17/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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R/CU returns to Ellensburg for the next stop in the 2023 Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC.

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Check out this pre-race document for all the info you need to be ready for the weekend! Included are the schedule, RV info, and more!

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President's Cup race report is now posted

Posted 06/14/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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The circuit headed west for the fourth race of the 2023 season. Check out the race report here!

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For the first time in 2023, R/CU heads west

Posted 06/04/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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R/CU returns to Waughop Lake in Lakewood (Tacoma), WA, for the next stop in the 2023 Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC.

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Check out this pre-race document for all the info you need to be ready for the weekend! Included are the one-day race schedule, calls for hot pit tables, and more!

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Champion Spark Plug Regatta race report is now posted

Posted 05/27/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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The circuit returned to the Tri-Cities for the third race of the 2023 season. Check out the race report here!

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Bill Muncey Memorial race report is now posted

Posted 05/16/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

With ever-increasing wind, it was a challenging day at Ellensburg for the Bill Muncey Memorial. Check out the race report here!

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Atomic Cup race report is now posted

Posted 05/06/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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The season began in mid April for the Atomic Cup in the Tri-Cities. Check out the race report here!

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Back to the Tri-Cities for the Champion Spark Plug Regatta

Posted 05/06/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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R/CU returns to the Tri-Cities at the Family Fishing Pond in Columbia Park for the next stop in the 2023 Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC.

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Check out this pre-race document for all the info you need to be ready for the weekend! Included are the schedule, RV info, and more!

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Next up: the Bill Muncey Memorial!

Posted 04/24/2023

By: rcuwebmaster

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Here we go, already the second race of 2023! We return to Ellensburg for the next stop in the 2023 Meyers Autotech Championship Series Powered by Rattlesnake RC.

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Check out this pre-race document for all the info you need to be ready for the weekend! Included are the schedule, RV info (VERY IMPORTANT IF YOU HAVE AN RV), and more!

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