In the early 1980’s, Bruce Ratchford, started Apollo Mechanical with not much more than a truck and a couple of welding tables. Since then, Apollo has experienced remarkable growth, in reach, reputation, and revenue. What was once considered “the little guy from Kennewick” now provides large-scale mechanical contracting work for some of the most powerful organizations in the world. Bruce’s key to success is the culture he instills in his company; a place where Safety, Integrity, Pride, Quality, Family, and Faith are the guiding lights, and where, as Bruce will tell you, “It’s all about the people.” Now after nearly 45 years, Bruce has lead Apollo Mechanical to becoming the fifth largest mechanical contracting company in the United States.

Michael Hanson has a long history as a hydroplane racer, crew chief and builder. He first qualified as an Unlimited class driver in 1986 driving Fred Leland’s U-100. He moved to Ritchie Sutphen’s U-66 Sutphen Spirit in 1988, but when the team disbanded mid-season due to a crash, he became available to drive for Miss Madison Racing. Michael was with Miss Madison as driver from that time until 1998. He had one win driving Miss Madison at San Diego in 1993. In unprecedented fashion, Michael drove from trailer position at the start of the race to take the win. He then collected 3 additional unlimited victories. As back-up driver for an injured Chip Hanauer, he drove Miss Budweiser to victory at the 1994 Texas Hydrofest. After moving to Jones Racing in 1999, he won the 2001 APBA Gold Cup on the Detroit River and the 2002 Bill Muncey Cup in San Diego. After a request from then Miss Madison, Inc. Chairman, Bob Hughes, Michael returned to Miss Madison Racing in 2004 as Crew Chief. With the Oberto sponsorship and a new Miss Madison hull in 2007, he led the team to numerous victories and 4 National Championships before his departure following the 2013 season. In 2018, Michael along with his brother, Larry, led the completion of building the team’s new racing hull introduced in Tri-Cities, WA in August of that year. Michael returned as Crew Chief in 2019, adding National Championships in 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2024. Michael lives in Bonney Lake, WA with his wife, Tonya. They have two grown children, Trevor and Aubrey, who have worked alongside their Dad on hydroplane crews throughout the years.