Kennewick, Washington – November 5th, 2026 – Vanessa and Darrell Strong, owners of Strong Racing, are announcing their retirement from boat racing after 13 years of involvement as sponsors and team owners, closing a chapter marked by championship victories, lasting friendships and a shared passion for the sport.

The Strongs conclude their ownership career with 14 Unlimited victories, including three APBA Gold Cups in a row, placing them 14th on the all-time owners’ wins list.

For Darrell, that passion began during his childhood in Pasco, Washington, when he would ride his bicycle to the Columbia River to watch the hydroplanes race. Racing also became part of the couple’s personal story: their first date was at the Tri-Cities boat races in 1975.

The Strongs began sponsoring boats in 2013 before establishing Strong Racing in late 2020. They acquired equipment from Jones Racing and subsequently Ellstrom Racing, building a two-boat operation with drivers J. Michael Kelly and Corey Peabody.

Success came quickly. Peabody earned his first Unlimited victory at the 2021 Columbia Cup in the Strongs’ hometown, while Kelly captured that season’s National High Points Driver’s Championship. In 2023, Kelly and Strong Racing secured both the driver and team national championships.

Beyond the results, Vanessa and Darrell brought a personal commitment to their team, supporting the drivers and crews whose work made those accomplishments possible. Race weekends brought together family, friends, sponsors and fans, creating memories on and off the water.

Their involvement extended beyond their own team through support for racers in other classes. Darrell also contributed to the organization and leadership of the sport as chairman of H1 Unlimited and co-owner of HydroTown.

Throughout their years in racing, the Strongs combined a competitive spirit with generosity and hospitality. Their shared love of racing became an opportunity to compete, celebrate and build lasting relationships within the community.

H1 Unlimited extends its sincere appreciation to Vanessa and Darrell, and to the drivers, crews, sponsors and families who have been part of Strong Racing, for their dedication and the memorable moments they have brought to the sport.

As Vanessa and Darrell take their final bow, we celebrate their accomplishments and thank them for 13 years of commitment to boat racing.