Part 3/5 Countdown to the 2025 Tri-Cities Water Follies: BWR Racing has stormed H1 bringing two drivers and three boats into the circuit including the all-time winningest driver of Dave Villwock and last year’s National Champion of Andrew Tate. BWR Racing owner Bruce Ratchford, Tate, and Villwock catch up with Jamie Council to recap Guntersville and give some insight into the Power Team at BWR Racing.
Andrew Tate: A Champion’s Focus
Andrew Tate, the reigning two-time H1 Unlimited Driver’s Champion and driver of the U-91 Miss Goodman Real Estate by BWR Racing, enters the 2025 season with a combination of confidence and caution. “What’s gone is gone,” Tate noted, emphasizing his “one lap at a time” approach despite coming off a successful 2024 campaign. He reflected on his off-season adventures in New Zealand’s Hydro Thunder Series, an experience that kept his competitive edge sharp and prepared him for the challenges of the H1 Unlimited circuit — In addition to spending time on the ice playing hockey in Michigan.
Despite a rocky start to the season in Guntersville, where weather disrupted races and left points unawarded, Tate remains optimistic. “Each heat and the results from each heat are that much more important when it comes to the end of the year,” he explained. With fewer races on the schedule, the stakes have never been higher.
Looking ahead to the Tri-City Water Follies, Tate expressed excitement about competing in front of a passionate Pacific Northwest crowd. “Tri-Cities and Seattle are typically a little more high-stakes because that’s where a lot of ownership and sponsors are from,” he said, underscoring the importance of delivering strong performances for both the fans and his team, BWR Racing.
Dave Villwock: A Legacy of Greatness
Dave Villwock, the winningest driver in H1 history and driver of the U-27 Miss Apollo by BWR Racing, brought a seasoned perspective to the conversation after his spectacular crash in Guntersville. “Hydroplane racing is unpredictable,” he remarked. Villwock recounted his storied career, including moments of triumph and setbacks that have shaped his approach to racing.
Villwock’s collaboration with BWR Racing owner Bruce Ratchford has been instrumental in assembling a formidable team. “Without people, things don’t happen,” he emphasized, crediting Ratchford’s leadership and the team’s top-tier talent for creating an environment primed for success. As the team prepares for the Tri-City Water Follies, Villwock’s focus is clear: securing another Gold Cup victory. “We’ll have to work on that,” he quipped, referencing his pursuit of the all-time Gold Cup record, trailing Chip Hanauer’s record by one.
Bruce Ratchford: Building a Racing Legacy
Bruce Ratchford, owner of BWR Racing and a lifelong hydroplane racing enthusiast, shared his vision for the team and the sport. A Tri-Cities native, Ratchford expressed deep pride in his community and a commitment to sustaining the legacy of hydroplane racing. “I wanted to step up and help the sport and the community,” he said, reflecting on his decision to invest in BWR Racing.
Under Ratchford’s leadership, the team has seen significant growth, blending experienced talent like Andrew Tate and Dave Villwock with innovative strategies. “We’re putting everything we have into making this team a success,” Ratchford remarked, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and dedication. As the team gears up for the 2025 season, Ratchford is focused on delivering results that honor the sport’s rich tradition and inspire future generations.
The Road to the Tri-City Water Follies
Tate, Villwock, and Ratchford all acknowledged the significance of the upcoming Tri-City Water Follies, a cornerstone event in the H1 Unlimited season. With high stakes, intense competition, and the passionate support of the Tri-Cities community, the event promises to be a highlight of the 2025 calendar in its 65th anniversary and the Gold Cup serving as the cherry to top it all off.
As the countdown to the Water Follies continues, Tate, Villwock, and BWR Racing are poised to deliver unforgettable performances.
Stay tuned for more updates on Countdown to the 2025 Water Follies.