In 1971, Madison, Indiana, a town struggling with economic decline, is obsessed with its last remaining pride: a town-owned power boat. The boat, a raggedy old donation from a millionaire decades ago, has never come close to winning a race. Air-conditioner repairman Jim McCormick, who had to stop piloting the boat after a near-fatal accident, dedicates all his free time to it, much to the dismay of his wife who thinks he should pursue professional opportunities. However, things take a turn when the town is given the opportunity to host the prestigious Gold Cup, but only if they can raise $50,000.

Madison
In the 1971 Madison, Indiana hydro-plane regatta, a driven individual pushes through adversity and personal struggles to achieve victory.