Hydroplane
Name/Title
HydroplaneEntry/Object ID
2015.011Description
To say that Z-Z-Zip is an extraordinary example of successful hull design would be an understatement. Built in 1955 by California designer and builder Joe Guess, this 266 class hydroplane set the speed record of 146.95 miles per hour in 1958 when Clay Smith raced her in Florida for owner Sid Street. This record was only beaten in 1969 when she reached 148.638 miles per hour racing under her new name Iroquois Chief driven by Gordy Reed. Carl Schmidli owned the boat following Reed and after many years, sold it to Tom D'Eath who carefully restored Iroquois Chief back to her original Z-Z-Zip exterior you see before you today. She remains powered by her original 1953 specialized DeSoto "hemi" stock 276 cubic inch engine built by Smith and Sykes. Z-Z-Zip's racing success did not come without some controversy however. Adolph Apel patented the 3-point hydroplane hull, which rides on three points when the boat is at speed. He believed Z-Z-Zip's design was too similar to this patent and filed a lawsuit against Sid Street in 1957. Upon further investigation, it was determined that Guess' hull design did not infringe Apel's as it rode on two points until it lifted off the water and rode solely on its propeller. This unique design combined with talented drivers is why Z-Z-Zip continues to be the 266 hydroplane speed record holder.Collection
BoatsAcquisition
Accession
2015.011Source or Donor
Knopf, CharlesAcquisition Method
GiftCredit Line
Knopf, CharlesMade/Created
Date made
1955Dimensions
Width
7-13/16 ftLength
18 ftDimension Notes
Width: 7'10" Length: 18'Location
*William J. Morgan Building
*Elizabeth & Bolling Haxall Building