Powerboat driver, safety pioneer

APBA historian Fred Farley called Kropfeld “one of the immortals.” In the nine seasons Kropfeld drove Unlimiteds (1982-90), the 1982 Unlimited Hydroplane Rookie of the Year won 22 races for the Miss Budweiser team, set numerous speed records and was 1984, 1986 and ‘87 National High Point Champion. In 1983, Kropfeld won more races than anyone and established 15 speed records, barely missing the High Point crown. In 1984, "King Kropfeld" gave owner Bernie Little one of his best years ever, capturing six of 10 events. In 1985 Kropfeld was the first Unlimited pilot to use a canopy. In 1987, Kropfeld was the first to average 155 mph on a closed course at the Tri-Cities (Washington) Columbia Cup. "The enclosed cockpit is one of the things I'm really proud of,” Kropfeld said. “It's not only saved me several times, but it will have an impact on the entire sport.” Kropfeld was inducted into the Unlimited Hydroplane Hall of Fame in 1998 and inducted five times into the APBA Hall of Champions.