By Patrick Robinson and David Rosen

The Automotive Collision Repair students at South Seattle Community College joined with legendary hydroplane driver Billy Schumacher, the new sponsor Beacon Plumbing and owner Tom Cahill and SSCC President Gary Oertli to unveil the brand new look for the hydroplane, set to race at Seafair this August.

During the ceremony instructors Steve Ford, Doug Clapper, Howard Andersen, and Eric Smock were recognized.

President Oertli recalled memories of his youth in West Seattle and how he would bring sandwiches to Seafair every year. He recounted meeting Seafair and hydroplane legend Bill Muncey and had his photo taken with him.

The students gave the race boat a complete make-over which included stripping the old paint, and applying the new color and clear coat. Heavy Duty Diesel and Automotive Technology students also performed major maintenance on the truck that will tow the boat for the 2012 racing season.

The No. 37 is owned by legendary Billy Schumacher (“Billy the Kid”), the former unlimited champion driver who won 17 races from 1967-1976, and is perhaps best known for his unprecedented string of wins with the Miss Bardahl team.

Schumacher Racing has paid a shop fee and materials costs for the student project.

The newly-painted and refinished boat will carry the South Seattle Community College name and logo on its side as it competes throughout the U.S. and in Qatar this season.