THE CHALLENGE AND RISK IN BEING A CHAMPION

Though adventuring hobbyists are a wonderful part of the nationwide participation in sport, it is the champions, like Hydroplane Racer Bill Muncey (shown right) and Cathy Nagel (see cover), youngest skier ever to vein a national title, who provide the flamboyant climaxes. As their reward, the champions receive applause or money-Yet they risk not only injury but also the possibility of becoming, very publicly, bumbling—and thoroughly booed—losers.

His strained features masked by goggles, Bill Muncey typifies a champion's ceaseless search for victory. In past three yeans, he has won 13 (out of 18) unlimited class races

Head up and eyes on the track ahead, Jockey Bill Hartack bursts out of the starting gate at Del Mar with the controlled daring that has become his racing trademark

TWO PHOTOS

MARK KAUFFMAN