Aucoin, Lloyd
I ran in the 50's and stopped in 1964 when I went the army. I had a b hydro & b runabout. The outlaw L7 & hydro L7. I ran champion hot & a and b class mercury's. I ran in louisiana and texas.

Austin, Tom
I raced A and B hydro and runabout in Sioux Falls, South Dakota from 1959 to 1965.  I was the president of the SDPBA for four years before going to Air Force Pilot Training. I liked the runabouts best but am looking for restorable Swift hydroplanes (like atomic a, big bee, big dee, etc.). Those were the days.

Balogh, Edward A.
Along with partner with Bill Place, was an instrumental contributor in the design of  the 18ft. hull - Going Places 101 that resulted in the New World Record established October 30, 1983 in Phoenix, Arizona. 176.39 mph. He is now deceased, but I can say it was one of the proudest moments in his life. His trophies and and a piece of history, (the 101) fragment of the boat hang proudly in my home today, even though I haven't a clue about boat racing, I know it meant a lot to him. Posted by Janet Villella.

Bailey, Butch
My dad and I began racing in 1957 with a 135 hydro A-250 Little Joe, we sunk it at Louisville, KY and purchased the Holliday, the 1958 National Champion boat. Renamed it Little Joe Too. Finished 3rd in the Nationals in 1959. Bought a 225 named Balleyhoo in 1960. We won every race in the country including the Calvert Cup and Ohio Governors Cup. Named the boat Trailblazer in 1961.

Baurer, Paul
Paul Bauer was a legend in the sport of hydroplane racing with the Kat-N-Nan Racing Team.  Inducted into the Gulf Marine Hall of Fame in 1956, 1958, and 1964 in the 48 cu. in. class. Campaigned Y-16 and Y-216 Kat-N-Nan I and II retired by the APBA in 1979. Paul passed away on April 23, 2005.  He will be missed. Posted by Paul's granddaughter, Patti Dorsey.

Berg, David
was killed while racing in Duluth, Minnesota in August 1962. He was 23 years old and had been racing hydroplanes since he was 14 years old. He was very well known in the racing world and set many world records. His stepfather, Merlin Hovern built his boats and helped build many of his engines. He also raced with a Koenig (German) engine which his friend with the same name built. He received many trophies and was most proud of his good sportsmanship trophy. He also set many world records while racing hydroplanes. During the race in Duluth, his boat flipped and his best friend ran over him. David was always in first place and his best friend was always right behind him. It was a terrible accident. Posted by Kathleen Berg.

Bergen, Bernie
Although I'm from Wisconsin, I started racing in Region 4 while in the army in 1966-67.  Ran a short sponson Sid in A Stock Hydro. Raced an A Stock Hedlund in 1969 in Region 7, then on to a C Stock Marchetti in 1970.  Quit stock racing and bought a Switzer "wing" from Mercury, rebuilt it with a pair of 1250 BP's a a "toy".  After flying it higher than heck one time and coming down right side up, I sold it and bought a GW Invader tunnel with a 1350 Speedmaster Mercury.  Drove it through a wave and broke it in half.  After numerous pleasure boats, now I play with a A&H hydro with a Merc 800 stacker with a Speedmaster, and have just acquired a 1980's Butts laydown alky boat, 500cc Konig.

Bingham, Al Jr.
Former 135 hydro owner and driver Al Bingham Bingo II 1950's to 60's - deceased. 
Al Bingham, Jr. Driver of 145 Hydro Bingo III. Tonawanda, NY. Both of us - members of the Niagara Frontier Boat Racing Association.

Bodemann, George
I raced in New York in the 50's and 60's mostly in Lake George, Manhatten and Hudson. Also owned Islip Boat and Motor Sales.

Bouffard, Ron
I was a member of Pierre Lavignes' Grand Prix Hydroplane team in the late seventies, early eighties. We raced among other things a Bob Delong design cabover GP-99, followed by a succession of Ron Jones hulls - GP-51, GP-52. Pierres' last hydro was a Jamie Auld design which is now racing down under.Pierre has since retired from racing, but we all get together at least once a year to remember old times.

Bradley, Charley
My Dad (Doc Bradley) established Bradley racing in 1929. Got me started racing stock outboards in 1961 with Pat Mulvany.  Graduated to A and B alky in 1965.  Quincy/Marchetti or Quincy/Rawson combinations.  Started running 700 hydro in 1971 Konig/Butts combination while I was working for Walt Blankenstein.  Retired the 700 in 1978.  Returned to racing in 1987.  National High points in 87 & 88 in 250 hydro.  Pugh/Yamato rig.  Out again in 1993.  Returned in 2002. Won only race ran with Konig/Pugh 350.  Wouldn't take much to get me going again.  Once its in your blood, it doesn't go away.

Brayer, Curt
Curt Brayer - Dancing Bear  is a 22 foot wooden red "F" Service Racing Runabout that was designed and built in 1965 by Curt Brayer of Miami, Florida.  She is powered by a 1958 Chrysler 392 Hemi Engine.  The boat was high point champion of the "F" Service Runabout class at APBA every year it raced. She holds the World Record for Straightaway at 94.607 mph and the Competition World Record at 77.787 mph. The boat was sold in 1974 and was repurchased and restored by Curt Brayer and his son Keith in 1988. Curt is a member of the Marine Racing Hall of Fame for outstanding achievement on the water. In Clayton, New York at the Antique Boat Museum in August, 2006 Curt Brayer was honored as one of 7 Legends of the Past in Power Boat Racing History. He was a Yacht Broker. Curt passed away in 2018

Bresette, Bob
Started racing OPC/I-Class 100HP Mercury in 1964 won the National Championship in 1965 I-Class (6 hour marathon in Pensacola, Florida) also won 1965-High Point Champion and inducted in the Marine Hall of Fame. Set a World Record in Lake George, N.Y. in 1965 with the 89 cubic engine/100HP.

Briggs (Howard), Becky
I'm the daughter of Dutch Howard (deceased) of Williamsburg, Virginia. My father let me help him when he built hydroplances. He built for Rodney Brogden, Curt Martens, and Homer Bland of the Wmsbg, Hampton area of Virginia in the late 50's early 60's. I have been contacted by someone who wants to restore the boats my father built. Rodney Brogdens, Kitty B is being restored in Jacksonville, Fla. The boat Homer Bland was killed in in Gloucester, Va. in 1964 or '65, I believe no longer exists. However, if anyone has information regarding Curt Martens or his boat, please contact me. I would also appreciate any photos of these boats.

Brown, Mason
Regards to everyone; I am looking for any information on my grandfather Claude Brown. He built and designed props and drivelines for hydroplanes ie; Guy Lombardo and others. He was set up in St. Thomas/Port Stanley, Ontario, Canada. He also had a hydroplane named the Silver Spray. Any info or pictures would really be appreciated. Thank you for your time in advance. p.s.-time era is late 50s early 60s or around the time rum running on the great lakes was at its peak. thanks again from Mason Brown.

Burgess, Bill
Born in Buffalo, NY and started racing in 1950 with E & F service, E-racing, Ski Racing, Super Stock. All boats were competitive, winners in all below classes, divisionals, national contenders, numerous course records, etc. Drove boats as follows:
E&F, Sleeper M-2 1932 (Chris-Craft) Owner - Harold Bauer Buffalo, NY
E&F, Seabiscuit, M-9, (Prowler) Owner - AL Brinkman, Grand Island, NY
E-Racing, Torgre (Patterson Hull) E-65 Owner - Ralph Barker Niagara Falls, NY
Ski Racing, Torgre (Patterson Hull) SK-165, Owner - Ralph Barker ,Niagara Falls, NY
Super Stock, Chartered (Schiada) SS-201, Owner/Driver - Bill Burgess, North Tonawanda, NY
webpage

Cameron, Don
Hi:  I raced 145 CI and 5 Litre Hydros from 1980 to 1991.  My 145's were Sweet Emotion (Fife Hull/Pinto Power) and Island Girl (Don Kelson Hydros/Pinto Power).  My 5 Litre was Miss McCord (Don Kelson Hydros/Chevy Power).  I raced mainly in Region 6, Tonawanda, Valleyfield, and a couple times in "the South".  Still love hydros and would 
love to hear from anyone.

Clarke, Peter
In 1962 stock outboard racing in Canada was dominated by Ron France,John Webster,Harry Bennet,Ron Robinson and Spike Burns. Ray Ozier and Bill Hodgson ran around after each other in a pair of Konigs on pump gas effectively dominating CSH.Alky racing featured Doug Thompson,Chuck Simon, Bill Ireland and a pair of Hannan Brothers from New York state. Every weekend we traveled from the now GTA to several sites in Ontario, Quebec, (Valleyfield) with its 1-2/3 mi surveyed course.) Tonawanda, NY, Michigan and Pennsylvania. My success was sporadic fright was constant and good friends everywhere. Some drivers at the time said that they hoped it would never end and for many of us it never did. Many of us experienced the hair raising shock of stuffing the nose of a hydro into a rogue wave at 60+ mph. There was also the fascinating vision of somebody going by,too fast for the wind and water conditions and executing a beautiful Immelman of spray, plywood, parts, a fuel tank and sore backs. Some of us experienced a brief rush of maturity as we met a lovely young woman, obtained a mortgage, raised a family and carved out business or professional careers. In 1975 more excitement came along in the form of a Lorne Pinel, 18' OPC tunnel boat, # 23 weighed down by 350 lbs and 150+ hp disguised as a 6 cyl Mercury OB. Imagine my adrenaline rush as 100 MPH became a possibility and 90+ MPH common. Again travel to Quebec, New York state, all over Ontario, testing, long distance phone calls, irate wives and girl friends and over worked bank accounts. This was again an unforgettable period, Picton, Welland, Valleyfield, Tonawanda and more. The tunnel was sold in 1979 but the interest and yes, addiction, is still there. My friends, when I can coax them, my ever suffering sweetheart on occasion will accompany me to races now and then. John Webster has retired after 54 consecutive years of dominating stock outboard racing and encouraging many boys and girls to get involved in this wonderful sport. Sadly we have lost some drivers to crashes and accidents on the race course. The great Gerry Waldman, Gentle Joe Gimbrone are only two I was blessed to meet. At this point I am seriously wondering if a stock inboard hydro would be good investment. The stock market sucks and as a semi-retired guy I have more time to devote to a hobby. My weight is good, my conditioning and health likewise. Is it really a good idea? Why not?    Peter Clarke, Newcastle, Ontario - August 23/2008

Cook, Tyler
I have won several trophies here in the state of Washington. I currently hold the record on the Vashon Island 4th of July Race of 52 miles. I still have 3 of my vintage crafts and am in the process of remodeling a 4th.

Cornwell, Paul
This entry is for Paul (P. H.) Cornwell (deceased). I grew up in Superior in northern Wisconsin, and was a young member of the Superior Outboard Racing Club.  I belonged when I was about 16 to 20.  Then I got caught up in college and no longer had money for boats and outboard motors.  There was a person by the name of Paul "P.H." Cornwell who lived in Superior area in the summer and in Paoli, Indiana in the winter.  He was a very charismatic guy, and was wealthy as a result of having factories that built wood TV cabinets and other wood products in both Paoli and Superior.  His mechanic at the races was a guy by the name of Bob Newlin, also from Paoli, IN.  In the early and mid-50s Cornwell was racing Class F hydos.  He held an NOA world record in 1954 with a Neal hydro, probably Class F.  He also made an attempt on the world record for Class X (unlimited) with an outboard with a tractor underwater unit, but was unsuccessful in setting a new record.  He died in a plane crash in about 1961 at the age of 42. I can remember as  a teenager being invited to go with him to a race in Northern Minnesota.  We rolled in with his new Cadillac Coupe de Ville and attached trailer with three hydros on it.  Several Class F motors were inside the trailer, along with his Class X engine.  This outfit turned a lot of heads, as not too many people in those days had new Cadillacs, much less a trailer with three hydros on it! I know that another racer by the name of Hap Owens was a good friend of his.  I don't know who built his engines, whether it was Hap Owens or someone else. If you can add any information about P. H. Cornwell, please contact me, Jim Perrin, at carreragts@aol.com or 614-882-9046. (01/19/2012)

Cory, Mike
I started racing in 1967 in the APBA stock outboard division, with the first race I competed in being in Waukesha WI.  My first few years I competed in ASR running the Mercury KG-4H.  In 1970 I began running BSR.  My career lasted until 1981 with my last race being the modified nationals in Cou Falls Iowa.  Over the years I competed in ASR, 15SSR, BSR, 25SSR, and BMR.  I built my own runabouts and engines and enjoyed much success primarily in the BSR class where I accumulated 77 victories.  I mostly ran in regions 6 & 7, participating in Wisconsin Powerboat Racing Association, Badger State Outboard Association, and Hawkeye Outboard Association regattas.  To this day, I can still remember that very distinctive sound of the 20H! (01/19/2012)

Cousins, William (Billy)
I started with B-Outboards in the 1950's.  Also in the 1950's, I got into Hot Rods.  From '61-'64, I built engines for the late Marion Cooper who was first driver of the Miss Madison, and also was the owner of the Louisville Kid.  Acquired the Louisville Kid from Marion and ran her for quite some time.  I was also involved with the Louisville Kid II. In 1970, I drew up plans for my 7 Litre, River Rat.  In 1971, I was invited to drive the Myrs Sheet Metal, but was not able to devote the time, as I concentrated on my family. In 1971, I started building the River Rat.  She was completed in 1972.  In 1974, I was involved in a wreck with the River Rat in Louisville, KY. In 1976, the River Rat was repaired and again was back in competition. In 1984, I stopped racing actively. Myself and the River Rat were out of action for approximately 28 years.  I was approached by Joe Johnson about appearing at the Madison Regatta Vintage Event. On July 5, 2002, the River Rat and myself again, became active. This information was compiled by Joe Johnson

Cowan, Errol
When I was 12, I lived in Chicago and a summer home in Bass Lake, IN, where every day I took the family's Sea King and 10 alum. boat out. It would plane for me. One weekend my Dad took us to see a alky race at Lake Maxinkukee, IN. I was so taken with it that I was promised a racing boat if I stopped beating up my brother. My first rig was a Van Plet B marathon runabout V222B purchased used from Johnny Diaz, a shop owner and racer in Chicago. Later I was given a Merc KG4H and before I could race it at Manteno, IL my family moved to Winnipeg Manitoba and I raced it there starting with the "outlaw" Manitoba Outboard Racing Association in 1958. They did not race "A" so I had to step up to "B" stock runabout. I always succeeded in beating the fellows with  Martin 200s and a Water Witch but could keep up with the KG7H, 20Hs or even the one KG&Q with open exhaust. I then acquired a 20H, a Wilson Hydro and a Kelly runabout. I raced it for 2 seasons and then moved to the SF Bay area. At that time my 20h had to be converted to "blewee" pipes to meet the Champion Hot Rod challenge. I often raced at Fremont Marine Stadium, built just for boat racing (now filled in and an industrial park.) The first race at Fremont was the last race staged with the PODH inboards on the schedule. Kind of of a single stepped hydro version of a Crackerbox. My favorite race was the primarily alky race at Lodi. The short course tight turns and numerous enthusiastic spectators every 4 July. I raced and spectated there for 30 years in a row (even after I moved to Virginia.) I also love watching FRRs race at Lake Merced in SF. Most exciting race I ever saw was one I raced at- Oakland Estuary. When F Racing Hydro came on, Billy Jack Rucker and Harry Barthowlomie were dueling neck to neck in cabovers with alky burning 75hs running in excess of 85mph with one bouy turns. There races were always good but this one was so close and so fast. Unfortunately, they never finished but bumped each other and flipped. When they were brought up on the beach next to my rig waiting for the next heat, they finished the contest with a fist fight in the pits. I was not a good mechanic so even though I was thrilled, I stayed away from running alky (except for some success in stepping up from stock at Lodi races) In No Ca I later raced C and D stock Runabout with a Castengento hull ( angled chine one side and rounded on the other) bearing the numers "O-O". The number was declared illegal by APBA 5 years after I first adopted it. For a while I served as a referee and VP of East Bay Boat Club. I raced at San Leandro, San Diego, Modesto, Stockton, Oakland, Red Rock (my first first place), Woodside ( I put together that race site), Watsonville, Bakersfield, Hansen Dam, Fresno, Lodi, Fremont, Roy Rogers Ranch in the desert and many other sites.  quit racing in '68 because of political disputes inside the club. I owed my many trophies to the assist of Steve and Kit Wilde and later to Bob Montoya, who I now live near in the Pac NW. I still own a factory stock 30H originally acquired from flying foireman Hale Yeary. One of the most exciting things of my life has always been watching the FRRs when the 6 cylinder Mercs were supreme. What a noise and spectacle! Years after quitting the sport I assembled a 75H with parts I purchased from Chuck Parsons and others but a barn fire melted it down and probably saved me from hurting myself with that stuff. I still attend 6 races a year even now. I am over 60 and have just acquired an original Phantom Runabout and am seeking a 4-60 to put on it for exhibition. I also plan to race again probably C stock run and/or Formula E. I have always loved the sport. It has always brightened my life even though others I know can't see the charm. I now live on Orcas Island in WA. During my racing career I drove mostly runabouts: Catengneto, Sid craft (the best, very fast) Dry Run, Foo-Ling, DeSilva anmked Titanic and of course it was struck by a D stock hydro testing at Fremont - it sunk!), Van Plet and Wilson and Marchetti Hydros. I can't wait to try out the old Phantom runabout (cigar shaped hull built by Shirely in  Oregon) I now have, once I get a 4-60! When I return to stock runabouts, I would like to find and run an old Rinker or Headlund. They were amazing in the turns, weren't they?

Criteser, Dennis
Don Criteser raced up and down the West Coast between 1936 and 1956.  Born in 1915, he hailed from Oregon City, Oregon, where he had an auto body and paint shop from 1935-1947 and where he started Oregon City Marina on the upper Willamette River in 1946.  As quoted in a 1945 LA Examiner article promoting the upcoming Hearst Regatta, "Don Criteser, who won the 1944 Hearst championship of the C Service Runabouts, will not only defend his title in that group but will also be entered in the C Hydro and C Racing Runabouts divisions, making him a triple threat man."  A 1950 Sacramento Bee article referenced him as "Oregon's star driver."  During World War II he served only briefly in the Coast Guard, receiving a medical discharge in 1942.  Whatever issue prevented his service in the Coast Guard did not prevent him from racing throughout the rest of the War.  Other racing cohorts included Barney B.H. Louthen from Seattle, Elmer Knight from Lake Oswego OR and Rocky Stone from Willamina, OR.  Posted by his son, Dennis, who grew up with a large collection of outboard hydro racing trophies displayed in the basement. Check out some of the photos from his photo album.

Curry, Jess
I am looking for some history lessens if anyone can help my Father raced in Region 10 for 35 years in APBA he raced various crackerbox i was wandering if anyone could help me find articles, pictures or anything else that would make a good tribute video slideshow for the family i have boat names and number of the boats he raced here is some information: His name is JACK SHETLER
1) LEAPING LOU P-17 YR 1967-68
2) BOOMERANG ALSO P-17 69-71
3) BOUNCING LADY P-29 71-74
4) GANBUSTERS P-14 75-77
5) THE CONDOR P-45 (color YELLOW) 76-80
6)THE LEMON CRATE P-40 81-82
7) THE CONDOR P-42 (#2 MAROON) 1983-87
I ALSO HAVE SOME PICTURES OF THE BOATS AS MY FATHER OWNED THEM IF THAT WILL JOG ANYONES MEMORY I CAN ALSO COME UP WITH SOME NAMES OF THESE BOATS AFTER HE SOLD THEM IF THAT HELPS THE ORIGINAL OWNERS
1) LEAPING LOU P-17 ARCHIE PARKER SR 
2) BOOMERANG P-17 
3) BOUNCING LADY P-29
4) GANGBUSTERS P-14 ROBINSON CHAMMERS CHEVROLET
5) THE CONDOR P-45 (YELLOW) JACK SHETLER
6) THE LOEMON CRATE P-40 RUSS HAGG
7) THE CONDOR P-42 (MAROON) 
NAME CHANGES
P-14 GANGBUSTERS / ULISSY S / NUT CRACKER 
P-45 THE CONDOR (YELLOW) / THE EAGLE
I also could give you some ifomation on some of the competitors that he raced against.

Curcione, David P.
The Worlds Speed Record is for Bannana Power Cigeritte Boats for a Gasolean Engine is 206 Miles Per Hour too! The Turbo prop Jet Engine Record Speed is Bannana Boat Speed Record is 221 Miles Per Hour is the Offical Speed Record too!

Dalton, Mike
I raced hydro C and D stock outboards, built in the 1960's by my Dad, George Dalton, in our basement in Buffalo, NY. My brother Dan Dalton also raced stock outboard hydro's. I raced Mr. Lucky and Dan raced Alley Ooop and Lil' Micky til the late 60's when we both got married.  My father passed away in 2002 but not before compiling a tape of all the races he saw. I would like correspond with anyone who knows about those three boats and our racing careers.

Daly, Kevin
CSH 1970's, raced with the Jon Stone - Stone Age Team | couts craft C hydro 67-n, northeast region 2 winner, competed 1971-1976 | 1990's Ran D Hydro | Currently restoring the 225 Prime Mover Staudacher for the vintage circuits.

Dashnaw, Ray
Hi All, I'm from Ogdensburg N.Y. & was referee or inspector at most of the races in northern NewYork & northern Canada from 1975 to 1998. Now retired & living in the sun in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Davis, Tommy Jr.
Hello, terrific to see APBA started a vintage-historic divison.Tom D'Eath was at the 2002 Mt DORA, ACBS Show and told me about the APBA VINTAGE GROUP. I rejoined, I was a Region 5 racing member 1960-1973, GREATER MIAMI OUTBOARD RACING ASSN, FLORIDA INBOARD RACING CLUB and Pelican Harbor Yacht Club. Special thanks and prayers to the many people and friends that had such a positive influnce on my teen years growing up in the Cocoanut Grove and Miami area. F.C.Doc Moor my fathers co-pilot in WWII. Doc owned Southern Air Transport we found out many years later it was a front for the CIA from 1955-1990s. Doc and Sunny Jones were terrific teachers in helping me build Crosly 48 hydro motors in 1963 after I was region 5 high points 1-F in Skip Ritters old 1955 Sidcraft BU "TID-BIT". In 1960 Bill Hutchins sold my father, Thomas I Davis, Sr a Swift Atomic A and was very helpful along with Tommy Hooten and Bob Brown convincing my family that it was much easier to slow a racer down than to encourage one to take chances and go for it. I flipped so often that Dad sent me to Mercury Factory Outboard Mechanics Training School in Sarasota,Fl as he knew Mr E Carl Kiekhaefer who flew on my fathers small charter air service in the Bahamas. At that time I was the youngest person to attend the school. Butch Stokes, pleasure craft racer-factory mechanic has worked on my toys for the last 45 years mostly my vintage racing Ferraris, 250 SWB 1962, 225S 1952 ,340 America, 212,T DF, 250 SWB CALIF, LWB CALIF, 3 DAYTONA SPIDERS 365GTB4, vintage class winners SVRA,HSR Sebring 1982-2001 and old 911s that I drive to races, raced (mostly 3hr SVRA HSR} usually top three in class {60-80 starters} and drive back to Palm Beach where I lived the pass 29 years with no DNFs, accidents or FLIPS.Tommy Hotten, Tom Sheldon, Dave Craig,Ted Miller,Cal and Hal Wienges,Lou Nuta,jr,Pop Meekins,Jack and H C Wilcox,Stan Irwin, Jeff Titus,Lou Kohler,Charlie Dunn,Max Saylor,Steve Malone,Paul Fuzzy Furlong,S R ! Boswell,Del and Duff Daily,Bill Bourne, Pop Smith, Gail Jacoby, PHYC members, Henry and Larry Lauterbach, Ron Jones, Bud Meyers, Lauren Saywer, PBS Fiat, Jon Beith, Bud Widget plus many more that I hope to see at our FIRST ANNUAL GOLD COAST MARATHON, PALM BEACH "RICKTY RACERS" PARTY AT THE MT DORA ACBS SHOW MARCH 2007.(561) 655 5812 RSVP urbanland@msn.com  Peter Green, Tom Davis,jr, Jeff Rowe, Jon Beith OR Jess Pourret at 375 SOUTH COUNTY RD #201 PALM BEACH,FL.33480  or P.O.BOX 3447 PALM BEACH,FL 33480. LIST OF BOATS OWNED OR RACED BY TIDE MOTORSPORTS AND TOMMY DAVIS, jr 1960-1973. SWIFT BSH EX TOMMY HOTTEN, SWIFT ATOMIC A EX BILL HUTCHINS,  SIDCRAFT BU 1955 "TID BIT" [WE WERE REGION 5 HIGH POINTS CHAMP 1961, 1-F] EX SKIP RITTER, HOLT CRAFT DU EX ALAN REESE 1958,4-F "DRAFT DODGER",   INBOARDS: EX DOC MOOR, LOEB HYDRO, POOR COPY OF A  LAUTERBACH 48 HYDRO,HENRY AND LARRY  LIKE ENZO FERRARI ARE RELENTLESLY COPIED BY ALMOST EVERY BUILDER IN THE COUNTRY. FERRARI THE BUILDER OF MY 24HRS  LEMANS 81 IMSA CLASS WINNER, 5TH O A [TIDE-CH POZZI FERRARI FRANCE] WITH DOCS OLD "DRIFTWOOD"WE WON THE ORANGE BOWL REGATTA IN 1965, THE ONLY RACE I FINSHED IN THIS HULL.DOC MOOR TRADED A CROSLY RACE MOTOR WITH LOEB TO BUILD THIS HULL. DOC WAS UNHAPPY AND SOLD THE BOAT TO ME FOR $200 DOLLARS. DOC WAS POED AND NAMED THE BOAT DRIFTWOOD. DOC AND SUNNY JONES HELPED ME BUILD A 48 MOTOR. WE AMBUSHED AND SUPRISED EVERY ONE  WITH A FOURTH, AND A FIRST IN THE FINAL HEAT. DOC RAN HIS NEW JONES CAB OVER. RACE WAS COVERED BY ABCs WIDE WORLD OF SPORTS.  COLCOCK 280-225 1958 EX AL MIMS, DAVE CRAIG, JEFF HUNT, BRIGHT STEVENSON FINISHED SIXTH OVERALL OUT OF 190 STARTERS IN THE 1965 SAM GRIFFIN MEMORIAL GOLD COAST MARATHON, FINSHED  SECOND IN THE HYDRO CLASS. WE SUNK AT THE FINISH IN PALM BEACH AND TED MILLER BUILT NEW SPONSONS OVERNIGHT. SUNDAY WE SANK AGAIN AT THE FINISH LINE AT THE PELICAN HARBOR YACHT CLUB. THE COURSE WAS LITTERED WITH THE FLORIDA STATE FRUIT, THE WATER LOGGED COCONUT. OVER ONE MILLON SPECTORS ENJOYED  FREE THIS CLASSIC EVERY MID JULY. MANY ACCIDENTS, SO 1966 WAS  THE LAST, SORRY TO SAY.  E&F SERVICE RUNABOUTS; DROVE BILL BOURNES, DAILY BUILT OH-MONA TYPE FSR HULL "SECRET & SCANDAL" AROUND 1965-66.  RODE WITH S R BOSWELL IN "DINAH MIGHT" A CONN CRAFT IN 59-61. DROVE RAYSON CRAFT AND BESSMER SK BOATS FOR HOLMAN MOODY FORD. JEFF HUNT OWNED THE BOATS IN 1966. CO DRIVER, WAS  CALE YARBOUGH BUT HE DID NOT LIKE THE BOAT TESTING IN LAKE MURRY, SC. FIFTEEN YEARS LATER CALE DROVE A FACTORY CHEVY CAMERO IN THE 24HRS LEMANS [1981] HE QUALFIED FOURTY FIRST BEHIND MY FERRARI 512BBLM [31589] TIDE-CH POZZI FERRARI FRANCE. NOW OWNED AND RACED BY TOMMY HILFINGERS PRES. LARRY STOL. I TOLD MY DRIVERS CLAUDE BALLOT-LENA AND JEAN ANDRUET TO LET HIM BY QUICKLY AS HE WANTED TO RUN HARD AT THE START AS CALE KNEW THE MOTOR WOULD NOT LAST. HE CRASHED IN THE FIRST TWO HOURS WITH NO BRAKES 22 HOURS SHORT OF THE CHAMPAGNE SPRAY. I DROVE THIS FERRARI ON THE STEET FOR A FEW YEARS, ENTERED DAYTONA 24HRS WITH RENT A RIDERS. BELGIUM DRIVER BERNARD DeDRIVER MISTED A SHIFT AND BLEW THE MOTOR ON THE FIRST LAP, SO MUCH FOR TEAM ORDERS PLUS HIS $40,000. CHECK ON HIS FROG BANK BOUNCED. 1956 LAUTERBACH 225 EX EMPTY POCKETS, ROB & TOM KAUFFMAN, TOM HINGLE. RACED 1966-1968, WON SIX RACES CO DRIVERS LOU NUTA, JACK WILCOX, LARRY LAUTERBACH, TOM HINGLE AND TOM KAUFFMAN WHILE I WAS RECOVERED FROM FLIPS AT LOUISVILLE, BUFFALO [NATIONALS] TESTING AT THE MIAMI YACHT CLUB AND 266/225 RACE AT THE MIAMI MARINE STADIUM. JONES 850 HYDRO BUILT FOR T I DAVIS ENT. [TIDE] IN 1971. POWERED BY PBS FIAT, WON PARKER, ARIZ 1972 WESTERN DIVISONALS SAN DIEGO. SOLD BOAT TO JIM APPLY AFTER THE MIAMI NATIONALS. JIM HAD GREAT SUCCES WITH THE "BLUE CHIP" HE AND HIS FRIENDS KEEP THE BOAT IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. QUIT RACING IN 1972 AND STARTED PLAYING WITH SMOKY OLD V12 FERRARIS WITH ALLOY BODIES. OWNED 43 FERRARIS, RACED 15 EX RACE CARS THANKS TO MY FREND AND FRENCH NIEGHBOR, WRITER, HISTORIAN AND  FERRARI CLUB FRANCE FOUNDER, JESS POURRET. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF I MAY HELP WITH ANY INFO ON OUR OLD BOATS. [561] 655 5812  PO BOX 3447 PALM BEACH, FL 33480. Tom Davis TIDE Ferrari Racing 912 275 1357
PALM BEACH YACHT & SPORTS MUSEUM,  TIDE ferrari racing P.O.BOX 3115, PALM BEACH, Fl.  33480  [561] 635 9447  [912] 577 9288  [561] 346 4630.  email pbtideyachts@aol.com  for additional info please google  tom davis ferrari palm beach or tom davis tide hydroplane  Tom Davis, Jr.

Descoteau , Dennis
I was a member of MORA. I raced runabouts and hydroplanes in both band c classes. I have a Merc 30h-1 and a Merc 20 with tuned exaust. etc. I had a one pit crew member (Gary Chance) team. Mr transport was a 1972 Renault R-12 pulling a silverliner hardtop camper with racks to hold both my runabouand hydro. We ran both classes by switching motors. We carried both motors in the trunk and props etc.My first year of racing was spent mostly in the water, the homebuilt hydro had a badly done bottom, twisted. I did win my share of races and still have the trophies. Our club raced all over Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the States directly South of us. Our club executive did a super job of signing up races for us. I0 still have aringing in my ears from that merc 20.

de Sousa, John
Owner of an early 60’s Casta Craft B Hydo running with a 20H. My fun boat is a 1949 Danbury Racer with a 48CI Crosley. Ran for 1 year at the Danbury, Connecticut water track and then Z Class in the APBA in the early 50’s.

Derr, Jim
I raced stock outboards and alkies (now called the pro classes) from 1952 to 1965 in the Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin areas. My classes were ASH, BU, BSH, AOH and BOH. I attended the Stock Nationals at Green Bay in 1954, Cambridge in 1956, Miami in 1958, Worchester in 1957, DePere in 1960 and Midland in 1962.  I would like to hear from those that attended these races.

Dotseth, Stan
My name is Sharon and I am the daughter of Stan Dotseth. I am writing this on his behalf. He will be 84yrs young this year. He first joined Midwest Power Boat Association around 1947. He ran a Snyder runabout with a Merc KG9 motor a class D runabout. He raced with this club until about 1971. In those years he ran classes C,D,E and F Hydros and runabouts. A Speedliner, Ashburn and Wilson runabouts.  In the hydros he ran a Swift hydro and then a Wilson cabover style hydro.  He ran a Mark 55 4 cylinder, a Merc 44, and a big banging 650 Merc. The fuel mixture was alcohol and castor oil. In 1961 just to give an idea of how popular this sport and club was there were 35 registered drivers for A Hydro, 49 for B Hydro, 24 C Hydro 25 D Hydro and large numbers in the runabout classes. Drivers traveled from all over to race with the Midwest boys, some such as Dick Pond, Bill Siebold, Sandy Ball and Joe Malta. Those were truly the good old days. We had a lot of fun and good times back then. Sharing some memories of how it use to be. 

Dowty, Kevin
I have been around hydroplane racing all of my life. I am really interested in vintage hydroplanes, and have a passion for it. My dad got in to hydroplane racing in the early 70's, because his friend's dad (Ralph Bornhorst of Piqua, OH) owned a A class boat. In 1979, when he was 19, he bought the boat from Ralph. He first called it Slow-Ride then changed it to A-71 Fascination. He then bought another boat, (which was at one time the wa-wa too) and went racing with it. At this time, he was running a Ford pinto motor. The first hull met it's death with a saw and some fire, but it was a junk hull anyhow. He ended up taking the trailer from the first boat and put the old wa-wa too on it. (The rebuilt wa-wa too still sits on this trailer as far as I know). He sold that boat to John Harding. Then bought a cabover and ended up getting thrown out of it at Eastwood Lake in Dayton, Ohio. He began running a 240z Datsun motor with this boat. Then he bought a boat from the Kennedy's, which was at one time called the Woopy. Then he bought his fifth boat which was the Coal Catat one time. (Now, a vintage boat called the Bluewater Special). The last boat he owned was original, called Cloud 9. This was probably the best hull he ever owned, he ran it as Fascination just like all of his other boats. This boat was competitive all over the mid west and east coast. He won a few MACH Series titles, ended up 2nd in national high points 1996, and 3rd in '97. Even after a rule change in the c.i. maximum, he kept running a 240z Datsun and still beat the people running 50,000 dollar engines. In 2000, he sold it and decided to give racing a break for a while. The boat ended up going to Chris Oliver and now has 3/4 of a new bottom, and a new deck, cell, and cowl on it. It is ran as Every-Penny now. That boat is going on 25 years old now so, it is really a vintage boat, and if anybody ever buys it with the intentions of restoring it, I would like to see it restored as it was when he had it. Because he never got quite the recognition he deserved as a boat racer.

Drucker, Steve
Live in Red Bank, N.J. Always wanted to drive one of those boats that I marveled over going to the National Sweepstakes Regatta in Red Bank as a kid in the 70's and 80's. Bought an old 280 cabover Jones from behind a lawn mower shop close by in 1990 for 2 grand and rebuilt the thing with Dick Sooy. Ran it for 3 seasons until they ended open cockpit racing in 1994. Never won but, met some great people and drank a lot of beer and ate a lot of crabs at the drivers parties! Past names and owners of this boat: "Quick Silver/Paula's Pet/Ms. Purolator, Paul DeVeigh. Shinndig!, Bud Shinn. Quick Trick!, Bob Geekie. Encore!, Art Appy. Nervous Energy, Dave Hamm. and the way I raced it, "Don't Tell Mom!.

Erickson, Doug
It is great to find this site. Sure brings back some awesome memories. I drove a Speedliner A runabout and then moved up to a Swift Atomic A hydro # G-53 in the Midwest Power Boat Association.  I was just a teen at the time (Mid 50's) but had lots of help from fellow racers like Ralph Higgins, Floyd Harris, Del Compton and Stan Dotseth. I then went to work  for Kiekhaefer Marine in Beaver Dam,WS but was too young to go on the road as a tech. I ran a shop in  Decatur, Il for a year and then opened my own boat store. I owned Douglas Marine in Annandale, MN (now A1 Marine)for 30 years, but got burned out with retail service. Three years ago I missed the boat people so much that I started an online Marine Parts and Accessory Store called www.BoatingBuddy.com I now get to talk to boat people from all over the world and really love it. Not many start a new business at age 65. Boat racing was an important part of forming the rest of my life.

Farley, Fred
APBA member since 1963. APBA Unlimited Historian since 1973. Currently a board member of Madison Regatta, Inc. Author of more than 700 published article on hydroplane racing since 1962. Former owner of a vintage 280 cubic inch class hydroplane.

Fluent, Lonnie
drove super stocks (Mr. Woody, Mr Sweeper, SK Class Kostafortion, K-Boats Most of the time. Dark Side Of the Moon k-90, Quicker K43, Outcast, and Anticipation,  Won my First ss race and won my first K Boat Race at Long Beach Marine Stadium. Raced For over 35 yrs. (01/19/2012)

Fraser, R
I was a high school student in Ft Lauderdale in the late 50's and entered the GCM several time, in the stock outboad division. My first run was in 1958 with my friend and neighbor Ronnie Lambert, in a 16' Thompson, borrowed from our mutual neighbor Rick Fourm, and Ronnie's 40hp Merc.  I was the mechanic and Ronnie drove!  My favorite memory is of the winner of the Miami-W Palm leg grabbing the queen at the banquet and mauling her, while dressed in his wet and oily coveralls. We teenagers were very impressed at this display of manhood, but not as impressed as the queen, who almost fainted it seemed. In 1959 I raced a Sid-craft BU with a merc 20, and DNF due to a water pump failure. Oh well, I made it to W Palm anyway with my outfit in the bed of a friend's truck, and got to party.  Early lesson in the 5 P's (Pxxx Poor Preparation means Poor Performance).  My favorite memory of that race was passing a Chris Craft speedboat moving at a leisurely 40 mph or so, driven by a guy in a bathing suit and the type of pseudo captain's hat popular then among yachting people, with several young women in two piece bathing suits--and this was in the 50's.  One of the beauties held out a can of cold beer (she must have had a motherly side, as she was much older than I, probably in her 20's), as I came along side (after jumping their wake), and I was very appreciative of the refreshment.  Unfortunately, in my pre-green days, I threw the can overboard after finishing, but (in my defense) the cans were steel then, and would rust quickly. I am told that a book is being written by Bill Crawford of Ft Lauderdale, on the history of the GCM, and if anyone has any info or perphaps a photo archive, I would appreciate a response.

Frisbee, Bill
I drove a "F" class, 266 cu.in. hydroplane in 1958, 1959 and 1960, owned by Jesse D. Collins of Buckroe Beach, VA.  We were sponsored by Cities Services Oil Company, thus explaining the hull name of 100 Plus, named after the Cities Services Premium Fuel.  According to the Newport News Paper, I am a member of the Gulf 100 Mile per Hour Club and was admitted into Marine Racing "Hall of Fame" at the Essex House in New York in 1959.  I retired from racing in 1960 because we lost sponsorship. I drove in competition with Henry Lauderbach of Norfolk, VA, Curt Martens of Hampton Virginia, Pop Widenhouse of Concord, NC; other hydros like the Gambler, etc. We had an old hull, I do not know the builder, but we would have liked a Henry Lauderbach hull but could not afford it at that time. Bill passed away July 16, 2016 in Richland WA. If you have any stories of my father, please contact me (William Frisbee, son)

Freeman, John
Have enjoyed owning and using the following original raceboats:  F service runabout "Intruder", E racing runabouts "Little Lady" and "High Hopes", JSS's "Red Baron" and "Carbon Blackie", 7 Liters "Roughneck" and "Watership Down", unlimiteds "Tomyann" and "Atlas Van Lines", K racing runabouts "Zitoplanes IV and V", 151 class "Little One II", Unlimited Speed Garvey "Double Trouble". Have a collection of fiberglass runabouts, Century, Chris, Glastron, Magnum, Donzi, etc. Live in Mt Dora FL in the winter and the 1000 Islands during the summer.  Been messin' in boats for 30+ years.  Glad to hear from those with similar interests.

Foley, Bob
Currently own 2 vintage hydros, Y-116 Full House Mouse, built 1953 or 54 by De Silva (Ingram design). The hull was originally 99-Y Lou-Kay (Sonny Meyer), then 69-Y Full House Mouse (Mickey Remund and later John Lyle). The other is Y-55 Hang In There (owned and driven by Jack Schafer, Jr.) I also had the privilege of driving A-102 Wave Machine a few times, S-5 Miss SM twice, and A-17 Trample just long enough to blow up the engine, and Y-8 Good Grief Too (ditto).

Fox, Jerry
Jerry Fox  started helping Paul Bauer with his 48 Kat n Nan. Fred Wermes and I bought Charlie Breens 136 Misled. We put the falcon in it and rolled it in Celina, Ohio. The last 145 we had was Damifno. Jim Kropfield and Conley Snowden drove it for us. Conley was critically hurt while driving for us at Cincinnati's race. I was transferred to Orlando, Florida. Fred went on to race with his brother Joe Wermes in Super Hook. Would like to hear from those 145 that we raced with in Region 6.

Franco, Mary
What a wonderful site to see this perpetuated for anyone interested in hydros. My father, George K Giakovmis was involved for many years in racing and when I was little he dragged me and my brothers to all his races here in the area. From the Seattle Slough to Lake Washington. When we went overseas to Japan in 1947 to 1955 he raced with the Japanese all over the local areas with his home built Mis Fire. To this day the smell of resin and fiberglass reminds me of standing in the garage with my father building his boats. I have photos of him with his trophies, with his hydroplane and one at the Portland Airport with Slo-mo-shun. The only boat allowed to be with this famous racing machine of the day. Is there anyone out there that remembers my father? the races they were in? That I can recall, he built two boats he raced constantly...Mis Fire and Thumper, a blunt nosed hydro with plaid fiberglass. I will come to the opening with photos for anyone who is interested. I have his memorabilia I would love to donate, also.

Gatchell, Charles
LET ME SEE,, I THINK I STARTED RACING AT 9 YEARS OLD WHEN I BUILT MY FIRST BOAT FROM PLANS FROM SCIENCE AND MECHANICS. I ACTUALLY PAID MY FIRST ENTRY FEE AT WINTHROP MAINE AROUND 1970 IN CSR. FINISHED NEXT TO LAST AND ONLY BECAUSE THE GUY IN LAST PLACE WAS SINKING,,,,, BUT CAME BACK TO THE SAME SIGHT THE NEXT YEAR AND GRABBED A FIRST PLACE!THE NEXT 16 YEARS IS HISTORY OF FLIPS, TEMPER TANTRUMS AND INCREDIBLE ELATION!!!!! I NOW LIVE ON A 104 YEAR OLD CHINESE JUNK IN THE FLORIDA KEYS!!!!! CHECK IT OUT!!!! http://www.keysyachts.com/page10.html CHEERS, CHARLIE GATCHELL

Goodwin, Bud "Frank"
In 1958 my dad Bud (Frank) Goodwin won the class C hydroplane championship. I am looking for any information someone might have about him and his hydroplane racing. We lived in Hanson MA. I believe he belonged to the South Shore APBA?  I do know he was a life member of the APBA. Posted by Shadow Goodwin Gorrill.

Grassi, Robert
I owned an Ed Karelson hydroplane in 1980. I purchased the Banana Boat from Wayne Butler in 1980. The hull was F 78 and was earlier N 75. I was a member of the Florida Inboard Racing Club and also a member of APBA. This was a beautiful boat in flawless condition. I raced the boat at Miami Marine Stadium which was in Key Biscayne. I would be very interested in finding out what became of the boat after I sold it back to Wayne Butler.

Guetzlaff, David Sr.
I started racing in 1971 with a Sid-Craft Hornet in class "A" runabout and campained for three years. In the winter of 1974, I purchased Bill McKnight's Lloyd 145 class hydroplane, totally rebuilt it and raced it as the "Proud Mary"(S-50) for 3 years. In 1977 I bought Art Luken's Five Litre hydro "Restless" (F-717)did not have much luck. In 1982 I purchased Frank Hawks' famous Five Litre the "Jersey Lightning" (F-50) as he raced it. I had to change the number to (F-717 GPR) but it did remain the "Jersey Lightning".  In 1983 we gained 3rd place in Region 3 high points and managed a third place in the Red Bank Grand Prix. 1984 brought us a second place in the Region 3 high points and another 3rd place in the Red Bnk Grand Prix. I stopped racing in 1985 and was told that the "Jersey Lightning" was being restored in Florida for display, this is a great boat and a real part of inboard racing history, if anyone knows if the boat is being displayed I would like donate my trohpys to go with it. I now live in Point Pleasant, N.J.and work as an engineer with Brick Utilities and have a 205 Four Winns Sundowner just for cruising.

Hall Jr., Chris
I have been voted family historian so this includes all of the Halls. My grandfather had a Lauterbach 225 in the 50's named Thin Slice and then Miss Bonnie. My father Chris Hall, raced A stock runabout in the early 60's. His Carlsen Craft Sassy is now in the Mariner's Museum in Newport News, VA. (Coincidentally, we found his first boat in the rafters of a fertilizer store in Yorktown, VA., but the gentleman unfortunately will not sell it). My uncle, Earle Hall, built and raced B stock hydros in the early 70's, winning both heats at the 1976 Nationals (from a field of over 100), only to find out he had jumped the gun in the second heat! In November 1976 we purchased Chuck Kittel's 2.5 litre Lauterbach, Screamin' Meemie, A-55. We renamed it the Bluewater Special. We raced her for 2 years winning the 1978 Summer Nationals and 1978 National High Points. Earle blew her over in September 1978 in Red Bank New Jersey, destroying her, (although not completely). The remains were sold to Bruce Brooks in Penn. I understand someone has recently found her and is restoring her. Next we had a 2.5 litre that Jon Stadaucher built us in 1979. We raced her for 2 years as well, winning the 1978 and '79 High Points, as well as winning the Nationals in 1980. She was sold to Chris Clark from Iowa, who in turn sold it to her current owner, Doug Brogden. In 1981, we purchased Jon Staudacher's personal boat, the 7 Litre II, Special Edition. We ran that boat for two years as well, winning National High points in 1981 and 82, the 1982 Nationals and setting two world records. This earned Earle his place in the APBA Hall of Champions in 1982.  We sold the boat to Mike Mammano in 1983. I last saw her in Valleyfield in 1990. I have no idea where she is now.  Earle went on to drive the Unlimited Squire Shop in 1983 and won Rookie of the Year, finishing third in points. In 1984, he drove the Frank Kenney Toyota U-13. He continued driving the 7 Litre II Country Boy from 1983 to 1985. In 1990 I finally got my turn and raced a new Furnal Flyer SST-60 OPC boat. I ran her for 2 years.  Earle's interest returned and he bought a Seebold SST-120 boat that he raced for two years, winning the North American championship in 1991. In 1992, my father bought and raced a Hoffman SST-45. He started his first race in 30 years 22nd on the dock and finished fifth! In 1993 Earle moved up to  Formula one, winning the nationals in 1995. Then Earle and I both had kids.....but, we purchased the old A-21 Lauterbach Coal Cat and had Larry Lauterbach rebuild her in 2001, in the form of our 2.5 litre Bluewater Special. I have a funny feeling we aren't done yet....

Harrow, Al
Recently my wife got me to start writing my memoirs. She pointed out that my children and grand kids had no idea of some of the things which I had done. The following is a chapter from those writings. I was fifteen years old in the summer of 1946.   I would be 16 in November of that year.   I really loved to watch the unlimited class hydroplanes race on the Detroit River.   They raced along the river between Detroit and Belle Isle.   The length of the course was between the Detroit Edison Power Plant at Conner Street and then south, under the Belle Isle Bridge, then south for a quarter mile, make a turn and come back under the bridge again, finally completing a 1 mile oval.   One heat would be three times around.   There would be 1 hour for the boats to be serviced in the pits, then off they went again. A full race was 3 heats. I would take my bike from where I lived, near Cass Tech High School at Vernor and Second Street, and ride to the Belle Isle Bridge.  I took a lunch and soft drink because I intended to stay all day.  I knew exactly where the boats went under the bridge, so I chained my bike to the rail and settled down for a day of racing.   I recall that my favorite boat was the “Miss Canada”. It was long and low and black and it ran very quiet. It looked so smooth. It must have muffled the engines somehow.   All the other boats were very loud. They fairly screamed as they passed under me. The Belle Isle bridge is not a high bridge, so the rooster tails would spray up onto us on the bridge as the boats shot by. A few years later, they shortened the course so that the boats turned before they got to the bridge. Too many boats came too close to hitting the bridge abutments if they were running side by side as they passed thru the bridge openings. Another boat that impressed me was the “My Sweetie”. It was beautifully finished in shinny multicolored mahogany. The engine, a 16 cylinder Allison Aircraft Engine, was mounted a little to the rear of center. The drive shaft pointed forward and went into a gear box. The propeller shaft left the gear box and angled down so that it exited the boat midway. All the other boats had their props at the rear. The “My Sweetie” had its’ prop midway on the hull. The reason for this design was so that the boat could make tighter turns on an oval course, similar to a front wheel drive on a car, in that it would pull the boat around the turn instead of pushing it “out” around the turn, saving time in the turn. In the summer of 1951 I was 20 years old. I had a 12 foot long, flat bottomed row boat with an old 5 horse power Neptune outboard motor on it. It wasn’t fast enough so I bought a new 1951 Mercury KG4 outboard motor with a regular lower unit on it. The cost was $300.00. The KG4 Hurricane is rated at 7 1/2 H.P., but when it revs up it reaches about 14 H.P. and is very fast.  I decided to design and build my own 8 foot, 3 point hydroplane for this motor. I was influenced by the design of the “My Sweetie” Hydroplane so I designed my boat with the seat at the rear and the motor mounted in the center with the lower unit extending down thru a well in the center of the hull. The motor was mounted and locked stationary, only driving straight ahead, while the steering was done with a rudder at the rear. The rudder was turned by the use of a lever in my right hand as I sat in the rear seat, behind the motor. With the boat nearly finished, and only a coat of red lead (undercoating) on the plywood hull, I decided to take it for a trial run.  I had not installed the “Deadman’s throttle” on it yet, so had to reach around the front of the motor to operate the sliding throttle. (The “dead man’s throttle” is nothing more than a spring loaded hand throttle, usually mounted on the left side of the boat’s cockpit. You squeeze a pair of vertical handles together to go from slow to fast at your digression.  They are spring returned so that if you were to release your grip, they would return to “slow”. In case of a mishap, the engine would immediately slow or stop.)  All went well at first, at medium speed, but when I advanced the throttle it took off like a streak and then, disaster.  I had designed the rudder to resemble one like I had seen on a Chris-Craft speed boat, with a portion of the rudder blade forward of the rudder shaft. As the speed increased, that forward portion of the rudder started to seek “left, then right” too quickly  and I couldn't hold it steady. I couldn’t reach the throttle on the front of the motor so I couldn’t slow down. the rudder finally threw me hard right and it dumped me overboard and flipped the boat upside-down. The motor continued to run at high speed as it submerged on the upside down boat. I had been thrown clear. The water was only about 3 feet deep so I wasn’t hurt and I just stood up. I was soaked and my hip boots were full of water. The motor, by running submerged, sucked water into the hot cylinders and cracked the block. Of course, it stopped running.  After being rescued by my buddy, I decided to redesign the boat to the normal outboard racer configuration, that is, with the motor mounted on the stern transom and the driver in front of it, using a “Dead Man’s throttle”.  To have my Mercury repaired, it cost me $90.00 for a new block. The new design worked fine. I had a great deal of fun with it for a long time. The top speed was just over 34 miles per hour but when you’re leaning down low in the cockpit, it seems a lot faster.  At that time in my history I was the fastest guy on the St. Clair Flats. It was great fun to run wide open at a wave from a cabin cruiser and jump about 30 feet through the air. I still have that boat and motor and they still run like they did 50 years ago. I recall that my buddy, Bob Soulliere, and I would run up and down the South cannel of Harsens Island, jumping waves and having a good old time. Eventually some cottage owner on the channel bank would call the Coast Guard and we would spot them chugging down the channel toward us.  Off we would go into the channels or “cuts” through the marsh on the Canadian side. We would occasionally peek over the tops of the tall bull rushes and when the Coast Guard boat would leave, back we went. It was quite exciting to charge at an on coming cabin cruiser, one of us on each side of it, then both of us jump it’s following wave at the same time. I can still see my buddies boat flying thru the air, just 40 feet to my left, while mine did the same thing. If I saw my kids doing that, I’d have a heart attack. In 1956, at age 25, I was drafted into the Army. After two years of service in the 101s’t Airborne, I returned home, anxious to run my little racer that I hadn’t had for 3 years.  I tuned it up and off I went, out across the shallow bay in front of our cottage. Fast and smooth, but not exciting enough.  I ventured out into the South Channel for a more challenging ride.  Bad idea. Just as I zoomed out from the protection of the “Venice Cut” and entered the South Channel, two large freighters and several fast cruisers had passed and the result was that the waves were all bucking each other and forming 3 foot high pyramids about 6 feet apart.  Wow!  All I could do was hold that throttle wide open and jump from wave to wave, on their tops, and keep going in a great wide arc back to the safety of the “Venice Cut”.  If I had slowed down, my little craft would have dove right into one of those waves and under I’d have gone. Needless to say, it scared the crap out of me and I didn’t do that anymore.  It was time to grow up! Going back just a little, while I was in the army, I came home on leave and a friend of mine said that he’d seen something that he thought I’d be interested in.  He drove me to a boat house along the St. Clair River, near Algonac, Michigan, and we went into a boat house that contained a large cruiser that belonged to Gar Wood, the famous boat racer.  The boat was about 60 or 70 feet long and was suspended up, out of the boat well, on huge straps. I could see that the bottom of the hull had a “step” in it. Similar to Gar Wood’s famous race boat, the “Miss America”.   The upper part of the boat was elegant, but not modern or streamlined. It was more “Victorian” style. The power plant consisted of two 1600 hp Alison aircraft engines that made it about the fastest thing around. According to the boathouse custodian, Gar Wood, who was retired, would come up to Michigan from his home in Florida, and take the boat our for a run on the St. Clair River between Detroit and Port Huron. He’d wait for some “hot shot” to come along and then he’d open up those two Allisons and leave the “hot shot” in his spray. I’d have like to have seen that! I wonder where that boat is today? Not long after I got out of the army, about 1959 or 60, a duck hunting friend of mine told me he was working as a volunteer crew member for an unlimited class hydroplane, the “Miss U.S.”. Would I be interested in joining the crew?   WOW! you bet. Those were some great and interesting times. The boat was the “Miss U.S.” with the designation of “U2”. It was an unlimited class 3 point hydroplane, about 30 feet long.  All red, with a huge upright dorsal fin at the back. It was owned by Al Simon, who owned “U.S. Equipment Co.”, in Detroit, Michigan. The head mechanic and test driver was Roy Duby who had extensive experience with several other famous race boats.   For you information, the term “3 point race boat” refers to the design of the underside of the boat. About 1/3  back from the bow there are two extensions or sponsons, one on either side.  At high speeds the boat rides on these two extensions and the rear of the boat.  Actually, the body of the rear of the boat does not touch the water. The boat is traveling so fast that it scrapes along on the slanted propeller shaft. That means that only the  bottom half of the propeller is biting the water. As the prop spins, it throws water up into the air, thus the “Roostertail”. This impressive “Roostertail” can be as high as 50 feet and doesn’t settle down until the boat is about 1/4 mile down the course. The place that we worked on the “Miss U.S.” was in a section of the old Packard Auto Plant in Detroit. That was where Al Simon's U.S. Equipment Company was operating from. Roy Duby was the only full time crew member and the only paid one. The rest of us, the volunteers, would show up one night a week to do any or all catch up work. Of course we all showed up for race day. The race operation was really extensive and complicated. Our “Pit” area for race day was on the Detroit River font, next to the Whittier Hotel. That hotel is now a senior citizen’s apartment house. Our boat was hauled to the site on a special flat bed truck.  A crane was also employed for lifting the boat in and out of the water. Our driver was Don Wilson. He owned a car dealership in Florida and would fly to the site of the race to drive the boat. When it was race time, I’d jump up onto the boat while it was still on the trailer.  Another fellow would get on too. The crane would swing over us and lower a couple of cable slings which we would fasten to eye bolts on the boat, using clevises.  Don, the driver, would climb up and get into the cockpit and the crane would lift us up, swing us out, and lower us onto the water. As soon as we settled onto the water and the cable slings went slack, we disconnected them and jumped ashore.  Don started that big engine and off he went with a roar and much black exhaust smoke.  Whew! every body’s tense. That motor gonna keep running Good? It does and Don maneuvers the boat around the river and back up to the starting line. The boats can’t stop. They can only move around until they’re all pretty well lined up.   Finally - - - BANG, the starter cannon, and off they go. What a sight. Five or six huge Roostertails flashing in the sun like giant white shark fins. All those engines roaring and snarling. All drivers jockeying for position.  Don't go under another boats’ Roostertail or you’ll drown out. Careful when or if you pass another boat so you don’t lose control on his wake. Then, all around the first turn and into the far straight-away.   Three times around and into the pits for service and prepare for the next heat. Don would maneuver the boat up to the pit site. Two of us would jump out and onto the boat, reach up and grab the lowering cable slings and attach them to the boat on their eye bolts. A third man would jump onto the boat with a small tank of nitrogen with a short hose attached to an air drive ratchet and socket.  While the crane picked us up to set us onto the trailer cradle, the man with the ratchet took off the valve covers. Once onto the trailer, others went to work resetting the stretched valves and removing the front of the engine so as to replace the drive spline. Because of the constant “in and out” of the water of the prop, the spline couldn’t be depended on to last for more than one heat. I jockeyed the drums of fuel into position beside the trailer. After everything was buttoned up, I passed the fuel hose up to the top men and began turning a hand pump so as to fill the boat’s fuel tank. Everything was orchestrated by Roy Duby to the minute because we only had 60 minutes for this super tune-up. Once fueled up, Don Wilson climbed up onto the boat, the two of us cable connectors climbed up and connected the cable slings. Up and over and down. Disconnect. Jump off. Start engine and off again. We’ll have to do this one more time before the race is over. It seems that all the other boats would have three engines for the race and they would simply change engines between heats.  We only had one engine.  I guess we were considered the “Poor Boys”.  We usually ran with a Rolls Royce Merlin Engine. It was our fastest engine. It was the same engine used in the P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane of World War II. We were set up so that we could install an Allison engine of the type used in the P-38 Lightning Fighter Plane. The Rolls was a British product and the Allison was American. If we raced in the Harmsworth Trophy Race, it was international and we had to use an engine manufactured in our own country.  The Rolls was faster than the Allison, so we never won the Harmsworth.  Roy Duby tried installing a super charger onto the Allison, but when it kicked in it ran like a banshee for a few seconds and then blew the engine. He never could make it work and control it. Our driver, Don Wilson, was a great driver and a super nice guy. After each race, Al Simon would host a small party in a suite in the Whittier Hotel. We would all sit around and have pizza and beer and discuss the days happenings. Don would sit with us crew members and answer all of our questions about any and all the things he or the boat did during the race. This gave us an insight on anything that we might want to improve on. During one race, it may have been the “Silvercup” in1960, we lost an engine due to a thrown piston rod. Don was driving and just as he passed us, right in front of us, in the pit area, the rod went. It all happened so fast. The boat was traveling over 100 MPH and all of a sudden a big puff of white smoke came from all exhaust ports and the boat immediately slowed to a stop and drifted downstream with the current. Don stood up in the cockpit and waved. He was fine. His boat was out of the way so all the other boats could pass him and finish the race. Once it was over, we jumped into a launch and went down river to retrieve him. We towed him back to the pits and we were done for the day. The next evening I went down to the Packard Plant to see the engine after it had been removed from the boat. What a sight. I wish I’d had a camera. When the piston rod let loose, it flailed around so fast and with such power that it cut the engine in half. The rod was steel and the engine block was aluminum. The only thing holding the two halves together was the oil pan, which ran under the engine and acted like a splice plate. The failing rod was not long enough to reach it. Quite a sight. No, we couldn’t save that engine. It was a Rolls. Roy Duby almost bought it once. It was in the middle of a week and Roy was on a high speed test run on the Detroit River. He was heading north on the Belle Isle side of the course, doing 120 mph, and he went over a submerged log that was just under the surface of the water. It took off his rudder and he immediately lost steering. he hadn’t started his left turn yet, so was headed straight for the docks at the Bell Isle Yacht Club. Without the rudder in the water, Roy thought he might have a chance to kick the rear of the boat to the right by gunning the engine and hoping the turn of the prop would make the turn. He stood up, reached down and hit the gas with his foot. The trick didn’t work, so he jumped. The boat continued, glanced off the side of a large yacht, bounced over the road, and came to rest in a lagoon on the island. Roy bounced along the surface of the water and stopped 6 feet from the dock. A little old lady ran out onto the dock and helped him out of the water. I saw Roy the next day and, luckily, he had no broken bones but was sore in every muscle on his body. He said that when he jumped, bouncing along the water at that speed was like bouncing along Woodward Avenue, the main street in Detroit. I had hoped that I would possibly get a ride in that boat, but it never happened. Too many other things were going on in my life and I finally had to drop out of the program. Don Wilson was killed when his boat flipped during a race in Washington D.C. in June of 1966. Roy Duby retired to Key Largo, Florida and died in 1999 at the age of 87. My buddy, Walter Warbrook, who introduced me into the “Miss U.S.” team, was killed in 1970 by an angry employee that he had fired. Each time I see anything about hydroplane racing, these memories come rushing back, so I had to put them down on paper. The most noted accomplishment of Roy Duby and the “Miss U.S.” was in April of 1962. Roy and the crew (minus me) took the boat to Guntersville, Alabama and Roy drove the “Miss U.S.” to a new worlds record for a propeller driven boat. He broke the record at 200.419 miles per hour.  Like I said, I was not on that trip, so I didn’t get to see the event.   Recently I found a video tape entitled "Thunder Boats”. In it there is a segment on the “Miss U.S.” that shows the boat in the record breaking run. The event didn’t draw much attention here in Detroit because the Detroit newspapers were on strike at the time. A little known but very expensive facet of running these big aircraft engines is the exhaust system. When the boat is designed so that the driver sits to the rear of the engine, the hot gasses of the 16 cylinders coming back past the driver can cook or asphyxiate him. This same engine, when powering an airplane, has short exhaust pipes that extend out of the side of the aircraft and do not effect the pilot. Not so in the configuration of the forward mounted engine in a race boat. Special exhaust pipes must be fabricated that will direct the exhaust gasses out, then past, and to the rear of the driver while he sits in an open cockpit.   The forming of these pipes is quite a specialty. After the pipes have been formed, bent, and welded together, they have to be normalized.  If they were just installed, then were exposed to the terrific heat of the exhaust, they would warp and crack. To avoid this, they have to be preheated while being held to their shape, and then allowed to cool slowly. A very expensive process to have it done correctly. These pipes get so hot while running that they actually turn white. Did you ever wonder why those big, propeller driven, 3 point hydroplanes have that huge fin at the back? It’s to help to keep them running straight. As the boat runs at high speed, it is actually scraping along the top of the water with only the tips of the outboard sponsons and the angled prop shaft touching the water, while the bottom half of the prop bites into the water. The prop is turning so fast that it’s torque tends to walk the rear of the boat to one side as it drives it forward.  That huge fin, extending up above the rear of the boat has a preset angle built into it that counters the side ward pull of the prop, at high speed, and keeps the boat straight so that the driver can keep control with the movable rudder. The steering rudder is a long blade that extends down from the rear, or stern, of the boat. It is connected, mechanically, to the steering wheel . One of my jobs as crewmember, was to remove or fill in any nicks or damaged spots on that fin. It had to be dressed, smoothed, and repainted so as to be an attractive but functional part of the boat. The popular nickname for this type of hydroplane was “Prop Rider”.

Higgons, Richard
I ran 225's and some outboard classes when I was a kid and thought it would be fun to pick up one of the old Unlimiteds to make sure they don't disappear. All that I have in race boats at the moment is a replica of IMPSHI that won the Gold Cup in 1936. The boat was designed by George Crouch for Horace Dodge and was powered by  a Packard Gold Cup motor. The new boat was built by Bill Morgan and is powered by a 454 Chevy motor.  It ran in the high 60s back in the 30s and still does.

Holub, Alois (Al) S.
Recollections of his first experiences in a boating were with his Grandfather. They had two boats at the time. One, a large flat bottom family boat and the second, a smaller fishing boat with an Elto outboard motor on it. He had to learn how to swim for safety sake at age four. This was on the Fox River at Fox River Grove, Illinois.
Later, on a trip with his parents to Michigan in 1927 Al’s Dad took him to an outboard hydroplane boat race being held in the region they were visiting. His first boat race as a spectator.
In 1935, Al’s father bought him a Class E, High Speed Racing Model,  Elto Quad which was a 50 cubic inch, 1929 racing  engine. With that, a Wagner, Class F, hydroplane. He used this rig on the Kankakee River in a subdivision in Indiana called Sumava Resort, where his parents built a summer home. His first, fast, boating experiences were with this combination.
In 1936, the outboard championship races, for both amateur and professional racers, were held in Burnham Park Harbor,  Chicago. Al attended those races and became inspired there and then to one day race boats himself. In 1939 Al acquired a 1931 model Evinrude 4-60. With the help of Bob Kramer and Joe Michelini, they converted the motor to virtually a new racing model 4-60 with new cylinders, heads, pistons and carburation. He also obtained a Neal hydroplane and with the newly rebuilt engine, began racing in 1940, 1941 and 1942. His successes during those years ware limited but at least he was running and competing. In 1942 and with the advent of the world war, he sold his engine. During the war years, boat racing was stopped.
In 1948, after having served with them 302 Infantry Regiment of the 94th Infantry Division during the Battle of the Bulge in Europe and being discharged, he decided to get back into boat racing. He bought a war surplus storm boat Evinrude 4-60 for parts to build up the power head. Joe Michelini helped Al put together the Class F, 4-60 racing engine. At the time, Al personally hand built a new conventional hydroplane, which was a copy of a Jacoby. With that boat, he achieved significant success. In 1949, at the National Championship races held at Lake Alfred, Florida, Al won Third Place in Class F, Hydro. From 1950 through 1953 he enjoyed moderate success. In 1954 they changed the lower unit configuration rules and Al ran into problems finding the right combination of lower unit and propellers to stay competitive. During 1954 – 55 he felt that he just lost out on two good years of racing trying to find the right combination. 
In 1956 he acquired a “ new “ Neal three point hydro that had been used by Hap Owens the previous season. With that boat, the assistance of Virgil Elder, who was an outstanding mechanic and machinist, his engine and lower unit and propeller combinations, good success began to return to Al during the 1956 season. He was still experiencing some problems burning pistons. It was at Minden, Louisiana at the National Champion boat races that he burned another piston during the race. There, he spoke with Allen Smith who advised Al about the possibility of inadequate fuel supply due to faulty carburation and other problems. With that advice, Al made modifications. With those modifications, he ended up with a better, faster engine than he had ever had before. In 1957 at Lakeland, Florida he felt he ran the finest race he ever ran to that date. In the first Heat of that race, Al ran a second to Hugh Entrop and the world record speed had been increased during that race by one mile per hour. In the second Heat of that race, Al ran another second place but finished this time second to Bud Wiget who won first place. However, during that Heat the world record was increased by another one mile per hour.  Neither Hugh Entrop or Bud Wiget exceeded Al’s consistent second place finishes in their alternate Heats so Al Holub won over all First Place for Class F hydro for that year. Some years later Bud Wiget paid Al a compliment by stating that he thought Al’s engines were as good as his except that he had better propellers. In 1957 Mercury Outboard came out with their new 75H engine. Knowing that he, as well as others who ran the 4-60’s was not competitive with the 75 H, Al withdrew from racing that year. However, during that year, Al Holub was declared the 1957, Region 7, High Point Champion. Region 7 covered Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin, states where Al Holub raced consistently in his earlier years. Not wishing to abandon boat racing altogether, Al began to get interested in OPC (Outboard Performance Craft ) Boat Racing. He built a boat  and a 40 cubic inch Mercury outboard engine. He got Bill Sirois, who was an employee of Al’s at that time, to drive his boat. They won two Florida marathons in the 40 cubic Class “ D“ stock races. Bill Sirois went on to become one of the most top-notch OPC drivers in the United States. In 1971 rule changes enabled significant modifications to be made to the power heads of the old 4-60’s so Al decided to try to make those modifications and get back into racing Class F Hydro’s again. Also, with a one to one ratio allowed for lower units, he figured he had some chance of running competitively. He got his engine to run very dependably and consistently in the high 80 mile per hour range. However, that was just not fast enough. He tried different hulls but never could get a prop-riding hull to work with his engine. Lots of frustration ensued because he just could not figure out how to get his 4-60 to run better on the hulls he tried.
In 1979 he bought a new, 14’ long, cab over design, hydro from the De Silva Brothers. That boat turned out to be a very superb boat. It handled very well and allowed for very good acceleration. With this new boat in hand, Al decided to go all out and to fully upgrade the 4-60 engine. John Toprahanian had Yamaha cylinders that he had adapted to run on a 4-60. These cylinders were coupled with two carburetors and new reed blocks in the crankcase. There were forty reeds feeding fuel to the cylinders from the two carburetors. The first time Al ran this engine, he won the first Heat at Lake Alfred, Florida but broke the crankshaft. From then on, they experienced lots of speed, but lots of broken crankshafts. They could never really keep this rig together. He went through eight crankshafts. John Toprahanian had agreed to build a new, heavier, more robust crankshaft and one that would still fit in the 4-60 crankcase. Unfortunately, Al never received the new crankshaft because John had never built it and had passed away in the mean time. During the nineteen-eighties, all of the driving of this modified 4-60 / Yamaha was done by Marshal Eldredge. Marshal shared the grief and frustration of trying to successfully keep this engine together. After blowing several engines and running over 100 miles per hour, the engine just could not be gotten to hold together long enough to obtain the proper engine modifications, hull set up and propeller combination. As a consequence, by the end of 1990, Al  decided to discontinue racing. Al gives high kudos to Marshall Eldredge, who drove after Al was no longer able to drive, because of health reasons. Marshall was well experienced and an exceptional driver and of course that essential part of a winning combination. Long now retired, Al Holub spent his entire career in the outboard marine industry, beginning initially in Illinois and subsequently in Sarasota, Florida as the owner of Sarasota Marine, until his retirement. Al lived with his wife in retirement in Tampa, Florida until he passed away on July 3, 2013.

Holub, Bill
I was introduced to outboard hydro racing as a small boy going to races with my cousin Al Holub (V-64) during the late fifties after the war. Finally he got me into it with enough parts so that I could build up a class F Evinrude 4-60 which I raced on a conventional Owens hydro hull (V-68). We raced in IL, IN, WI, OH & MI. I raced in the fifties, he continued on well into the late eighties in FL. In the early days we mixed our own fuel, did all the engine work ourselves, worked until closing time on Saturday night, drove like the devil to get to the race, slept a few hours while waiting for churches to let out so we could start testing, then waited for class F or Free for all race at the end of the day to race. Then packed up and drove home. We started from Berwyn, IL. I am long now retired in Wilmington, NC. My cousin is retired and lives in Tampa, FL.

Jackson, Denny
Former owner/driver of Ride-On E-133 and Lil' Miss Madison E-147 both in the old 280 cu. inch class. The home port for both hulls was Madison, Indiana from 1976-1984. The E-133 hull was built by Walt Milosovich in 1971 and the E-147 was a Sooy hull built in 1976. Denny currently drives for Joe Marshall and The Tennessean Racing Team GNH/UL 33 in what MAY be his final season. He now lives in Milton, Kentucky.

Jacobson, Bob
Bob Jacobson was my father. He passed away several years ago. I remember traveling all over the country when I was a young boy to attend racing events. He drove a DU stock outboard speedliner number D 232 M called "Jumpin Jake". He worked for AC spark plug company in Flint, Michigan. I remember him giving out spark plugs to his fellow racer's. As I recall he was high points champion quite a few years from the late 50's and early 60's. He raced mostly marathon races and I also remember some closed course races. I remember him racing on the Detroit river many times, Lake Winnebago, Fondu Lac Wisconsin, around Staten Island, 1,000 Islands New York, and many more places. I recognize a couple of names such as Ray Lenk as I read thru some of these websites. I still have a bunch of trophies from many events. His sibling.

Johnson, Dave
Native of Bremerton, Washington, located on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula about 20 miles west of Seattle (as the seagull flies). Started racing Stock Outboards in 1971. Bought a Karelsen AU from John Myers and raced it for a couple years. Moved to ASH, then CSH through 1974. Switched to PRO outboards in 1975, racing primarily 350ccH with a Karelsen/Quincy oufit. Not the fastest, but it always finished. I competed in the first-ever Yamato 80 race in Bakersfield in 1973(?) when Tom Ige showed up with several engines in his station wagon and offered them up. Don't remember everyone that ran them that day, but am pretty sure Bob Wartinger, Carl Lewis, and John Karelsen were on the water. That eventually became the 20SS class in APBA that is still running today. My last two years of competition (1980/81) I raced 20SSH with a Karelsen/Yamato 80 rig.Bremerton had a large group of racers during this period, in Stock, PRO, Inboard, and OPC. My brothers, Steve Johnson and Rich Koch, and myself formed Team Northwest, and competed throughout the west coast, western US, and Nationals. Steve raced DSH and 350ccH, and Rich ran CSH, DSH, 500ccH, 500ccR, 1100ccH, 1100ccR, and CSerR. Steve was 350ccH National High Point Champion in 1975.I still attend races occassionaly and enjoy running into my boatracing "family" members. Region 10 has always had great racers and will continue to.

Johnson, Dave
Past owner of Miss Close Shave II, a vintage 1957 225 Class Limited Hydro.  Current Owner / Driver / Restorer of Miss Jean F-128. I was a crew member of the Miss Madison from 1976-1979.  I also worked with the Coopers Unlimited from 1985-1987. Worked with Bill Cantrell & Graham Heath at their shop here in Madison, IN. I have attended the Madison Regatta for as long as I can remember.  Worked on and appeared in the movie "Madison" which was filmed in Madison, IN. & Long Beach, CA.  While working on the Atlas became friends with Stunt Drive Ernie King, who was a riding mechanic on the La Hala in the 1950's.

Johnson, Joe
 I worked with Ed Cooper Sr. & Jr. Team in 1987 at Evansville and Madison. I helped restore my brothers 225 Class Miss Close Shave II. I am also organizing a proposed vintage event for the Madison Regatta. I have attended the Madison Regatta for as long as I can remember. Hydroplane racing is in my blood. I have a favorite saying that goes like this - VINTAGE HYDROS FOREVER.

Jones, Al
Stock Outboard, 1959-1969, JU, AU, BU, ASH, 111-M,  11-M, 65-M,  Flint, Michigan, Capitol City Outboard Club & Central Michigan Boat Racing Association.

Jones, Jennifer
Hi!  I am looking for information on the former Miss Bee Bee E-4.  I have some information on it and maybe with what I can find out, might be able to find if it's still running.  My Grandfather and Father raced it in Virginia for a couple of years and prior, my Grandfather raced it with a friend of his. I would love to find out if this boat is still out there.  I know it changed hands and became the Miss Amy D and I know some direct information on it that maybe can be traced.  But if anyone out there knows any information, please let me know.

Jordan, Dianne Prentice
Dianne Jordan, widow of Mac Jordan, owner of Miss Sapphire: husband died in boat accident in August, 1970, Yorktown, Virginia. Hull designed and built by Henry Lauterbach from Portsmouth, VA, the BEST designer and builder from his era. The boat was heavily damaged in the accident and someone picked up the boat a few months later. The hull was recently restored and repaired, and I do not remember who picked it up, because there were so many people coming and going at that time. My children and I would appreciate any additional information, or photographs.

Julian, Joseph
Hi everyone! No vintage boats in current ownership, but I do build speed skiffs. My dad and myself have been racing from 1950 to the present. I am looking for a pictures, news clip's of my fathers boats from the '50's & 60's. The boats names were Jo-Ann, Mar-Jo, and the St. Patrick. All 3 hulls beared the JS-6 numbers. Any info would be great. Also our new hull is near complete and will be at the races soon. Drive like you hate it.

Kahan, Bob
Bob Jepson of Los Angeles raced DeSilva F runabouts named My Sin, or maybe My Syn, from about 1940 to 1950. They were outstandingly beautiful boats and as I remember it, Bob usually won. I raced (unsuccessfully) service c 135, also by DeSilva. At one of the Hearst Regattas at Long Beach Marine Stadium, (arranged largely by Bob) I couldn't get my engine to start. Bob jumped into my boat with me, got he engine started during the last minute and, fully clothed, dove overboard as I headed toward the starting line. Bob died of a heart attack very young, I think about 55. I am now 94 and  very nostalgic about those years. If anyone can give me any information about Bob or his son or the existance of any of the My Syns I would greatly appreciate it.

Kilian, Bill
After years of watching boat racing during my childhood and teen years, I finally bought my first limited-inboard hydroplane in 1975. It was a 280 Karelson copy built by Mel Eastlick of Spokane, Washington. I converted this hull to a 225 and named her The Crimson Connection after my affiliation with Washington State University. We ran a 215 Buick motor and campainged her until about 1980 when she was sold to Buel Woods of Everett, Washington. (Incidently, if anyone knows of her where-a-bouts today I would love to get her back). About 5 years ago I re-kindled my enthusiasm for racing after learning about the vintage class. I was very lucky to find a Don Kelson 7-Litre named Copy Cat and rushed (and I do mean rushed) out to make her mine. I bought her from a man in Everett named Larry Garcia. This hull has been put back together with help from Don Kelson himself, and my good friends from racing past Dave and Levi Weber of Bill's Heliarc in Spokane, Washington. We ran for the first time at Lake Chelan in Washington State in September of 2009 and had a ball!  Boat racers have not changed over the years!  They are still the greatest and most friendly/helpful people on Earth!  Can't wait for the 2010 season to start.

King, Durb
My Dad's passion for racing hydroplanes was the world our family revolved around until his death in a race in Dayton Ohio on Aug. 6,1977 (Dad had just turned 50).  He grew up in and around the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky and was building kayaks as a teenager. I understood dad was first introduced to hydroplane racing when he returned from the Navy by Bob Nolloth and his Stormy Weather hydro.  That was probably in the late 40s or early 50s. Dad eventually bought this boat and began piloting his own boats which he named after my mother Bonnie, as if that would somehow alleviate her constant fear of the danger in this hobby. He called them Bon-Bon and Bon-Bon Too (no points for creative naming.) The two boats I remember best were his last two; a 150 Hallett 4 cylinder Chevy and his 225 Lauterbach 8 cylinder aluminum Buick.  He was very proud of this Lauterbach which was the first hydro he had custom built by Larry Lauterbach in Virginia and which was his final ride in Dayton. Dad also raced in the 266 class before moving to the 225 class. Dad was an active member of both the Northern Kentucky Boat Club and the Ohio Valley Boat Club (Cincinnati).  He spent every evening all winter in the basement "working on the boats" getting ready for racing season and then we spent every weekend all summer at races.  In those days there were a number of races in the area including those sponsored by the two Clubs he participated in as well as Madison, Indiana (where he once sunk his boat in and accident and we had to go back on Monday with divers and retrieve it from the bottom of the Ohio River), New Martinsville, W. VA (where he became a member of the Gulf 100 MPH Club in the 60s). While dad did not build his hulls from scratch, he could do all the repair work and engine work himself (with a little help from his friends). Dal (Dallas) Kremer (Moonshine Baby) was a dear friend and we spent plenty of time in his Bellevue, KY body shop.  Dal would build the cowlings for our boats and do all the painting and varnishing for dad, and they were joint pit crew for one another on race day. John Fleishner was also a loyal pit crew member and knew his way around an engine.  Ken Stith was another constant crew member.  Ken was a dear friend of dad's from work who caught the racing bug from dad and would accompany us to all of the races and often tow one of the boats for us. Ken eventually bought his own hydro and raced. Ron Whitley, another crew member was in charge of shipping and receiving.  Ron worked in baggage for Delta Airlines and would make sure that engine parts (blocks, crankshafts, etc.) made it back and forth to the West coast at no cost.  Delta was unwittingly sponsoring the Bon-Bon.  (I'm sure you wouldn't get away with sneaking engine parts on those planes in these days).  Dad accumulated quite a collection of trophies and it broke my heart to unload them when we sold the house.  I did keep one first place trophy from 1957, the year I was born. The one I remember best was that huge round globe that I believe came from winning the New Martinsville, W VA race.  Dad would have it for a year after winning the race and then return it for the next year's winner.  They would add a plate to the base of the trophy representing each year's winner. Mom wasn't so keen on that one, as it became the focal point of our living room and occupied our Christmas Tree space for the year. I also remember mom saying she never delivered the ultimatum "me or the boats" because she knew full well what Dad's choice would be. Thanks to Phil Lipschutz and Butch Kropfeld for making me welcome among the race crowd even after dad was gone. (Butch had some great Christmas parties in his shop, I'm still impressed with the old gas pump he turned into a beer tap!). I shared many pictures of dad and his racing career with Phil Kunz a few years ago.
Submitted by his daughter: Shauna King-Simms

Kirts, Jerry
I was looking through some of my Dad's old race stuff and WOW what an accomplished career! Daddy has always been a twinkle to my eye but, what a little girl's dream to have a father as a two time National Champion! My fathers passion was always for the water however, because as his family grew, Dad gave it up for watering the grass and settled for the pool in the back yard. Now that we are all grown and my Mother has passed, Dad has retired to putting as many miles on his Harley as possible each season (even if it is just a trip to Wal-Mart.) I think that with his whole heart the sound of a loud motor is truely his "Happy Place" but we all know there is nothing like the smell of hydroplanes firing up. There are not too many of the Grandchildrens events that Dad misses and as Fathers Day approaches I just wanted to add my Fathers name into the history books of GREAT people where he belongs! Submitted by Sarah Kirts

Kossow, Keith
I was a crewmember for my father, Frank Kossow, on the Miss Ottawa, in the 5-litre class, from 1966-1970.  Our home was Ottawa, Illinois. Ron Jones built the Miss Ottawa, driven exclusively by Frank Kossow, won many races during its competitive years, including the Orange Bowl Regatta in Miami in 1968, the Prime Minister's Cup in Valleyfield, Quebec, Canada, and the President's Cup in 1965. Paul Martin was the crew chief of Miss Ottawa, Swede Stromstedt was the mechanic, and Dick Cheli and I, Keith Kossow, were crewmembers. During its short career, Miss Ottawa was well-known throughout the Eastern and Southern United States. Frank Kossow was killed in the Nationals at Ann Arbor, Michigan, in July 1970. Paul Martin was killed in an auto racing accident in March 1973, Swede Stromstedt passed away in 1998(?), and Dick Cheli died in 1996. I still have a number of parts and Miss Ottawa memorabilia as well as hundreds of photos. I feel that, based upon the number of races won during 1966-1970, Miss Ottawa was one of the top 5-litres in the country in the late 1960s.

Kramer, Art
I am looking for information on CARL KRAMER, my grandfather, who raced on the rivers around Chicago in the early 1900's. His brother, JOHN, were a terrific pair. I remember seeing a lot of trophies around their houses while I was growing up!!  Their boats were mostly handmade, and they modified their own engines. The boats were carried on top of their cars to the races. Any info would be greatly appreciated, even if it's a clue to look somewhere else.

LaMotta, Guy M
Started racing in 1965 around Long Island with Don Aronow, who was a good friend.  Raced N.P.B.A and A.P.B.A.  Was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2008. Race boat name is Dry Martini. Have been involved in offshore racing for over 40 years.  Racing and suporting race boats such as Lady L, Armed and Dangerous, Recovery, and Instigator. Both Recovery and Instigator are A.P.B.A world Champions. Sponsored the 1990 and 1991 A.P.B.A. race at the Montauk Yacht Club, which Guy LaMotta owned. Sponsor of 21 Manhasset Bay Gold Cup Runs at the Manhasset Bay Marina which Mr. LaMotta also owns.

Lang, Allen
Started racing with an E Mod Speedifour in 1955 with the Eastern Outboard Racing Club of Riverhead Long Island. After discharge from the service in 1962, I returned to run EORC in AU,BU.CU and DU. Ran the New England and NJ circuit in CU picking up a few trophies. My problem was I had rough water props which put me at a disadvantage on lake running. Had the engine and boat to run against the best in the country (30-H and Sea Jay runabout),but, props did hold me back. In rough water, I would beat the best on the east coast, but, only then. Had to give up racing in 1970 due to a job change.

Lavigne, Francois
Francois Lavigne passed away in March 1989 at the age of 75 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.  I don't remember much of his racing career. I think he raced the 244 Class.  The boat I remember was the Escapade built by Henry Lauterbach and owned by Docteur Latour.  My father got a world speed record in that boat with, I believe a DeSoto engine.  If anyone has records or memories of his racing days I would appreciate it a lot.  Most of the records of his accomplishments have been lost.

Lemay, Benoit
Crew member for Warren Wilhelm`s Golden Princess, Nory-Lyn GP-404 (1986-87-88). The Golden Princess is a Lauterbach (1985) and the Nory-Lyn a Staudacher (1987). Half way in the 1988 season I was "drafted" in the Lauterbach Special GP-200 owned and driven at the time by Claude Campeau. Before 1986, I was a big hydroplane fan, following the Canadian circuit since 1977. During those first years I was taking photos that you can see part of in the Hydroplane Photo Albums (see in the links page). I`m still keeping in touch with the hydroplane world by looking in the internet and by going to all races I can. St-Timothee, Quebec, Canada

Leonhardt, Bill (Whitey) 
Bill (Whitey ) Leonhardt has been an avid power boat racing enthusiast since the age of 15. During his early introduction to the racing scene, he was sponsored by various individual boat owners, racing clubs and boat builders. He was a natural for the sport...aggressive...a strategist and loved the competition. During his racing career, Bill was an active member of the American Power Boat Assn, Greenwood Lake Racing Club, Val Ray Boat Club and Interstate Boat Club. Among his many accomplishments included: Mennen Marathon "Around Manhattan Island" - 1st Place Professional Stock Outboard 1956 Greenwood Lake Racing Club High Point Champion - 3 consecutive years 1959-1961 inclusive NY State High Point Champion - 3 consecutive years 1959-1961 inclusive NY State Outstanding Achievement Award - Presented for outstanding accomplishments in the field of racing 1960 NY State Sportsmanship Award - 1961 Division High Point Championship - 1961 John & Flora Blank Trophy - Awarded by the Kiekhaefer Corp. (Mercury Motors) for the greatest number of overall high points accumulated in any one stock outboard class-1960-with 9121 points. Gulf Marine Racing Hall of Fame. Elected in 1960 as one of the country's 15 outstanding power boat drivers elected by a committee of racing experts & officials. Honored at Awards Breakfast held at the Essex House in NY and presented by Red Barber for his outstanding achievement. United States National Championship - 1961 - Awarded for highest points accumulated in professional stock outboard class racing for which the U.S. Shield was applied to the hull. Unfortunately, Bill was unable to display the U.S. Shield to the hull as he was drafted in the service during the Berlin/Cuban missile crisis...his racing career was on temporary hold. However, upon his return from his 2-year stint in the armed forces he piloted a boat owners hull to go on and win the Northeastern Divisional Championship. He churned up a lot of water during his racing career!

Lesoine, Dave
I am the maternal great grandson of "Pop" Carlsen, owner and founder of Carlsen Craft. I have found one entry here about one of his boats the SASSY, in Chris Hall JR.'s entry. If anyone has any information on him or his boats please shoot me an e-mail.

Lockridge, Jerry
I live in 29Palms, Ca. Around 1980 I purchased a 1969 Aquacraft flatbottom that was originally owned by a brickyard in Long Beach.  The boat was called Mr. Bricker and carried #48.  There was a participants decal in the boat for the Tuborg Nationals at Marine Stadium.  One of the races they attended had another boat with 48 on it and after a coin toss Mr. Bricker became 481.  The boat originally ran a 427 Ford Hi Riser. The 427 was long gone when I bought it.  In 1982, good friend Tom Pecanic and I decided to race the GN class at the 1983 Parker 9 Hour Enduro (shortened to 7 to save gas or ?).  The GN class had no shortage of good boats and talent.  Bob and Norm Teague, Steve Goodman, Chuck Mull, Schiada, and Raysoncraft.  We ran a 429 Ford and had a game plan of "don't do anything stupid".  Keep the prop in the water.  I thought we were going to get waxed.  The Ford ran at 5500 for 7 hours, never missed a beat.  We won the GN class.  We finished 10 laps ahead of the second place boat.  Bob Nordskog in Powerboat Magazine called us "a disappointment".  We ran again 1984.  A broken motor mount put us on the trailer for awhile and a broken distributor put us back on the trailer. I got it running and Tom brought it home in fourth.

Long, Hugh
Born July 27, 1927. Raced A-13 Quicks Draw a Davies hull in the 60s. Later drove owned Bachelor One A-5 Lauterbach in the early 70s. In 1977 bought Big Chief A-11 a Lauterbach, which was 1982 thru 84 North American Champ and won too many races to list. In 1991 bought Hank Lauterbach's Something Speacial and renamed Big Chief  A-11 which was Region 6 High Point Champ and won its share of races. Hugh was from Danville, KY. He passed away in 1997 and is buried at Camp Nelson National Cemetary KY. (Submitted by his son, Mark Long)

Madlock, Michael
My boating started as a 3 year old in my Dad's Wickens Crackerbox. It was on that boat we would go to Long Beach, my Dad made my uncle his first set of water ski's by bending a piece of plywood under steam. From there my Dad went on to an "E" boat Miss Guided and at the ripe age of 10 I drove her and all of the 283 Corvette rat moter that pushed her over 100 mph. I am in the market for a vintage E class boat right now.

Mason, Mark
Started messing with antique inboards in 1963 as a kid and very soon got bitten by the old 1920's & 30's gentlemen's racers because of their capacity to carry passengers.. wives & friends for a days boating. Bought my first racer, SISTER SYN in 1969 followed by METEOR V in 1972, BABY BOOTLEGGER in 1976, IMP in 1984 and MISS FLORIDA in 1987. Built MISS COLUMBIA for Philip Sharples launched in 1986 and TYPHOON for Jay Keefe in 1992. Now building a trio of boats reproducing DELPHINE VI, HORNET, and IMPSHI. All Horace Dodge racers designed by George Crouch in 1925. Would be happy to hear from anyone interested in these ancient old boats. We live near Laconia, NH.

Mattson, Don
In the late 50's and early 60's Warren (Buddy ) Erickson and I  raced hydros and runabouts in northern Minnesota. Most of racers were from Duluth, the Iron Range and the Bemidji area. It was an "outlaw" circuit- the only rules were type of boat (hydro or runabout) and cubic inch displacement of engines. We wound up burning alky and castor oil in modified mercs - A KG4H and a 20H. When we began racing there were Martins, Mercs, and Champions, but the Martins and Champs eventually disappeared. There were runabout and hydro races for classes A and B and also D hydro. C service runabouts completed the classes raced at that time. The last race of each race day was a "free-for-all" in which any boat could enter . Sometimes there were upwards of 15 entries and it was affectionately called the "mad scramble". It delighted the large crowds that racing attracted in those days. We raced both hydros and runabouts in classes A and B. Our hydro was a Wilson and the runabout was homemade. Another friend , Bill Mattson (no relation) raced D hydro - modified 40H Merc on a Swift hydro. While our success varied the fun did not - it was always a blast, and exception perhaps being when Buddy Erickson's B-hydro blew over backwards on a straight stretch. Eventually interest waned in the north and we began to compete in Midwest Power Boat Association races. That club contained a number of national champions and other excellent competitors. As grad students having accumulated families, we were ultimately, but reluctantly, priced out of racing. Anzanis, Koenigs and Quincy Mercs had taken over and we dropped towards the back of the field. I still venture out to watch races when I can but at this age and having watched the now smaller and faster boats negotiate the race courses, I figure that I no longer possess the balance and reactions necessary to compete. But maybe .....

McKnight, Bill
Built, owned, and drove inboard hydros out of Red Bank, N.J. from 1966 to 1980. Competed in 44 hydro, 850cc hydro, 145 hydro, and began in JSS in 1965. I built my 44 from plans by Horace Burgard, my 850 was a 1967 Sooy, my 145 was a late 1950's Lloyd. I rebuilt a 1946 Morlan Visel 48ci in 1974 and raced it one time. Am retired and live in Ft. Lauderdale. See my photo webpage.

McKnight, Keith
I grew up in the Red Bank, NJ area and spent my summers at the races with my dad, Bill McKnight. My name is Keith McKnight and I have a late 70's Karelsen cabover 5L am rebuilding her to run currently. Some of the names that used to be my boat are, I'm told are, The Banana Boat and most recently the Old Timer owned and driven by Bill Densten, Sr.

Miles, Rocky
My father built hydro's back in the late 50's & 60's they were DSH and F, His name was Bud Miles we lived in Alderwood Manor, Wa. & Lynnwood, WA. Our Uncle Les Miller drove the boats. The boat was ( R6 Mr.Magoo ) Les won about 97% of the races here in Washington back then, He raced with Bud & Chuck Walters , Howard Anderson , Phanom , Burt Ross. Les held the Straitaway World Record in 1960 I think it was on Black Lake or Devils Lake. I'm looking for Pictures or News Articals about that time in racing here in Washington, Some of the race sites were Green Lake, Silver Lake, ect. Please email or 253-735-1771.

Moore, Bill
Looking for information on my uncle Bill "Reds" Moore who used to race out of Northfield NJ in the 70's. His boat number was SK-199 and the boat name was the "Impatient". All his boats were a metallic purple. I would like to know if there is any info on his racing in anybodys archives. Thank you in advance, Bill Moore

Moore, Bob
I started racing outboards (ASH and AU) in 1956, ran these up until 1962 when I purchased the HI-Q, a 136 ci Lloyd hydro. This is the boat that I raced up until 1971, when due to family obligations, I got out of active driving. I have since restored the boat just as it appeared in 1964. I kept an "eye" on racing until 1983 when my wife, Marie and I became active with the National Sweepstakes Regatta in Red Bank. Between Marie and I, we headed the race Committee up until the last year of the regatta, 1996. During that time I also served as a Region 3 Inboard Chairman, Region 3 Chairman and served on the APBA Inboard Commission. Currently, I am an APBA Council Member at Large and served as the past Vintage Vice Chairman. It was in this capacity that I hoped to see the Vintage & Historic category grow from its current 230 members to over 500.

Moore, James H
I was part of the team that modified and built Moonshine Baby H-54 with Dal Kremer in Bellevue, KY and you can't imagine my surprise when I found out it had been rebuilt. I retired and living in Butler, KY. Still can get away from the toys as I continue to build and race model planes on wire. Memories - please contact my baby sister's email.

Mulvany, Hap
I started racing for the old Champion Motors Co in 1951, when the company sold out in 1955, I continued to build and race the Hotrod "B" and developed the 15 cu.in. 'A' which is still manufactured by Tom Moulder. I retired from racing in 1971 and now reside in Titusville, FL. (R'cd a note that Hap passed away on May 16, 2005).

Mulvany, Patrick
I started out in A stock Hydro with an Atomic A Swift.....remember them? Got into Alky's in 69' with a Marchetti Hydro and a Flat Head Quincy Looper!! Set the record at Lakeland that year with a white X on my helmut. the thing I miss the most though is the scream of my old Six-Banger Merc wailing behind me. Dang, this brings back memories!!

Musson, Robert
Built first hydro when 8 years of age from plans in Popular Mechanics.  Went to Madison in middle 50's and first drove Dave Thomas's Scremen Deamon 135 after race in New Martinsville in 1960.  Bought 280 Miss Fire 280 in L. I., New York brought home and raced through summer getting 2nd place trophy in first race thanks to Clyde Fox.  Rebuilt 280 in winter and while sanding down learned that it was once Wa Wa that Tom D'Eath just sold.  Raced Jone's conventional 280 of own and partnered with Phil Kunz in 280 Wonder Wart Hog.  Later drove almost everything from 48 to 7L with exception of 266 for others.  Help found DMBRA, Pres. of Organization that built Dayton Hydroglobe and was Region 6 official at one time.  Now in process of building something like 15' E Racing Runabout with driver and 2 riders at transom. Also selling some old race boats and cars for others.

Muffy, Craig Warren
Hi.. I'm just trying to help the membership grow. Lots of us are out there..I started watching and officiating (Scorer) in 1966 with The Florida Inboard Racing Club, under the founding Board of Directors of Lou Nuta Jr., Charlie Dunn, Bill Markey, etc..,at the Miami Marine Stadium in Miami, Fl.....My brother was Chuck Ankrum, a 25/30 year  Board of Director of FIRC, APBA member, Commodore of FIRC, Race Chairman of FIRC, crew member on three limited, and one unlimited race boat, and an APBA Inboard Commissioner. Because of him, I became heavily involved for well over 20 years: Board of Director of FIRC, member APBA, Secretary to the FIRC Commodores, Lou Nuta Jr., Chuck Ankrum, and Bill Markey, Secretary to FIRC, Editor of the FIRC newsletter - The Propwriter, APBA Chief Scorer - 2 years, Assist APBA Scorer - 20 years, and pit crew to 3 different race boats (Allen Reese's "Miss Cottentail", Gene Bramblett's "One Way",and Sherman Polhamus' "Tiger", all  225/280 hydro's, and honorary crew to Jim McCormick's "Miss Madison" Unlimited.) I was able to travel for years to inboard races and Nationals in the state of Florida, and all over the country.

Mut, Denver Ray
My dad and mom, Melvin and Ruby Mut, from Baton Rouge, LA, told me that I went to my first boat race when I was 9 weeks old. I grew up in my dad shop, Mut's Boats, in Baton Rouge and started racing when I was 8 years old on go-karts. I raced karts until I was 14 then started racing outboard hydros and runabouts. In 1964, at 16, I started racing inboard hydros and runabouts and continued drivng and working on race boats until 1983. My last drive was at the Southland Sweepstakes in Feb 1983. I then moved to road racing GT and Formula cars and have been making a living providing complete trackside support for drivers in SCCA, NASA, PCA, Grand American and American LeMans series. My race shop is located at the Motorsport Ranch in Cresson, TX. Recently, I have become very interested in the APBA Vintage division and will attend the Wheeling, WV event Sep 2011 and the Morgan City, LA event Oct 2011. I have also made a deal to obtain the very first inboard hydro that I ever drove, the Debbie D, a 48ci Hydro, from the daughter of the owner, Cal Caillouet, from Baton Rouge, LA. I look forward to returning to my roots and enjoy the sights, sounds and people of APBA Vintage Racing. My contact info: Denver Ray Mut DRM Racing 214 Woodbridge Boulevard  Hammond, Louisiana 70401 Cell – 817-228-1477  (Jan 19, 2012)

Niehaus, Chris
Grew up looking at a picture my Dad had hanging in our basement with some trophies and his two outboards on a trailer behind him. Always loved that picture and one day in 1981 started trying to convince him to get back into racing...with me.  We ended up buying a 145 c.i. inboard hydro, which at the time, was named The Cincinnati Kid. It was sitting in a garage looking kinda sad, but we brought it back to life.  Originally, Lil Mogul it was (I understood at the time) the 1973 high point champ, but not sure about that.  Built by Bob Blazer it was a fast conventional hull during the time when cabovers were really taking over.  Best finish was a 4th at Coney Island in October 1983.  Was in 2nd at A J Jolly Park and would have stayed there on that short course (the boat would turn on a dime) had I not gotten so excited and forgot to the set the left sponson. Not bad for the fierce competition in the 145 class at the time. We repainted it and named it Whistlin' Dixie S-85 (The Cincinnati Kid was S-81 from the markings that were left on the boat.)  We raced from 1982 - 1984 in region 6 and met many friends in the Northern Kentucky Boat Club and the Ohio Valley Motor Boat Racing Association. I still have a nice photo album to remember those fun days.  Dad passed away in May 2009 and whenever I look at that old photo album or watch the movie "Madison" on DVD, I have to smile and say a prayer for him. I know Dad's praying for me up there in Heaven. Maybe someday, my son, Joey will jump into a boat, but for now, I'll hang on to the memories.

Niehaus, Richard (Dick)
Started racing in Class B stock outboards in 1952 with a Sid Craft. Went on to buy Dean Chenowiths B Hydro in 1955. Purchased a 145 for my son Chris Niehaus which we named Whistlin Dixie. It originally was built by Bob Blazer & had a 144 Falcon in it. Only thing I have from my racing days is a B Kamic SS prop. (Dick Niehaus passed away in May 2009, see above)

Nielson, Rudy
I began racing in 1962 at age 15. From our home in Cleveland OH. My first boat was a 145 class Wickens hull called RUDY TOOT. It was and antique even in those days. However, old as it was I did manage some second and third place trophys. It broke in half in 1964 and we scrapped the hull and built our own design. A wide transom, cabover boat taken from the lines of the Ron Jones hulls that were dominating the bigger classes at the time. This one called RUDY TOOT TOO. I did well with this boat once I stopped poking holes in it because we built it to light in some areas. And unfortunatly it was only in the last two years of racing that I discovered it would corner at full throttle. I raced this boat untill 1972. I guess my Personel Best would be passing up five boats in the first turn and coming within two tenths of a second of setting a coarse record in Tonawanda, NY. I am 55 now and living in Cape Coral FL. Since my hydro days I have raced in Offshore boats, and have restored a few Corvettes. However, racing hydroplanes is a sensation that only the privileged driver of one of these machines can relate to. And entering a turn at full throttle when your instincts tell you to let up, is a rarer treat still. 

Nesbitt, Carl
I am now in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Been here for 15 years. I am working with Jack Keen.  We are working on a 1 Ltr Staudacher and one of Charlie Fife's Thunder Chicken.

Noonan, Billy
i was born into boat racing as my father first started racing in 1936. after WWII, he became involved with others around the louisville area and formed the falls city motor boat racing association {fcmbra} racing clubs had extremely long names back then! my dad, along with my mom, put on races in the louisville area from 1948 until 1975. my dad passed away in 1970 at the age of 57. my brother, myself, and mom continued on until our last race. by then it was really difficult to stage races without big sponsors. mike had moved away and the club had dwindled away to just a few members....we'll you all know how hard it is to stage a regatta! it was then that i started driving. i drove in several classes, mostly 145's with my only real success coming behind the wheel of dick sooy's T boats, "DOUBLE EAGLE" i drove part time for mr.sooy when dave shaw couldn't make it. my biggest race was winning the summer nationals in 1978 at decatur, ill. after an accident in my 145 {1982} i drove a hand full of times until retiring in 1984. them i concentrated on becoming a referee. i rose to the ranks of "chief referee" for region 6 in 1987. i also served on the irc as a commissioner and also chief inboard referee serveral times until i retired in 2008. i'm still officiating the unlimiteds and just recently traveled to doha,qatar, where the first oversees unlimited race took place. i also purchased the vintage hydro Lil Miss Hillwinds along with beth gilday from detroit. this has been a great experience so far, and i look foward to many years of working to grow the vintage catagory even more, that it is. i also was just elected to the position of council memberat large for apba. See ya at the races! Billy Noonan "willy-t"

Norton, Billy
I grew up in a boat racing family. My dad started racing outboards in the late thirtys. He ran mostly in the N.O.A circuit. He won the 1954 N.O.A alky D hydro world chanpionship in an old Neil hydro that he had restored. The engine was a Merc kg9. Shortly after that race he had a Willis Hydro and a Willis comet runabout. Those were built by Willis boat works in FT. Worth. The hydros were very fast,but they had a tendancy to nose in if the water wasn't perfect. I ran my first race in 1956 in A runabout. Dad was running A Ashburn D runabout and the older style swift D hydro. With the linen deck. We later went to the newer style Swift hydros We had a Big Bee and a Big D. We also aqquired a Desilva runabout. That set the D runabout record in 1963 in Denver. I won a lot of local races with the Big Bee hydro and a Merc 30 against the D hydros. My Dad's name was Charlie Norton. His every spare moment was devoted to boat racing.

O'Gorman, Kerry
My name is Kerry O'Gorman. I am currently living in Denver, CO. I raced D Stock Hydro (17H) in Indiana and surrounding states from 1960-1965 with NOA and IOA. Also some B Utility in the early years. I raced with Mike Doran. Both of us were from Rochester Indiana on Lake Manitou. I was state champion in 1965. Some of the other competitors I raced against were Armin Schweir, Bob Keller, Don Dennis, Ed Smith...My
boat was a Coutts Craft built by Jim Coutts in N. Tonawanda NY. Jim raced mostly "alky" classes but also some DSH. I would be interested in contacting anyone who raced in the midwest in the 50's or 60's.

O'Hara, Anna
I grew up in hydroplane racing and was so lucky to have it as such a big part of my life.  My dad owned and drove the S-125O'Hara's Malarkey (built by Jim Davies) in 145 class. He didn't win any 1st place trophies, but we didn't care, he has plenty of 2nd and 3rd class along with the Crank Shaft award back in the early seventies.  It was just fun and everyone was family.  Sure wish it could be that way again!  Thanks to the DMBRA and the APBA for all the wonderful memories!

Oliphant, Mickey
I was born in West Palm Beach Florida, and my Dad Dix Oliphant was the first outborad boat and Johnson motor dealer in Palm Beach County, opening D & D Marine Supply in 1952. My Dad was boat racing before I was born in 1949. He raced with the Erneston Brothers, Chris & Jimmie Dan, who were both high point national champions in both A & B Utility and A & B Hydro for years. Chris was world champion for many years, and held many APBA records. All through the years, I spent weekends on the shores of lakes bays and rivers watching my Dad, Chris, Jimmie Dan, Dick Slaton, Ted Miller, Gordon Gentry, and others race the APBSA circuit throughout the southeast. My Dad also ran the unsanctioned marathons in south Florida,in non APBA qualfied boats. He raced in The Gold Coast Marathon, which was a two day race from Miami to West Palm Beach on Saturday, and return on Sunday; The Nine Hour Marathon, which circled McArthur Causeway in Miami for nine hours, The Sandy Shoes Marathon, which was a two day race from West Palm Beach to Ft. Pierce on Saturday, and return on Sunday; and the West Palm To Stuart Marathon which was a round trip from West Palm Beach to Stuart Inlet, and return the same day; a four hour marathon at The Jenson Causeway, and an hour marathon at Lantana Florida. My Older brother Doug Oliphant, and I began racing the marathon circuit in 1961. (I was 12 years old- He was 16.) We raced all of the above mentioned marathons, and others until the were outlawed in 1967. My Dad built up 22 CI 18HP Johnsons and we ran them on AB Utilities, in class 1. Because of the tremendous pounding of the intracoastal marathons, running with hundreds of other boats, including inboard hydro-planes, SK Ski boats and all classes of outboards at the same time, we were forced to modify our A/B utilties, or they would simply fall apart. My Dad also set up three of our school mates with similar rigs, and the five of us dominated Class 1 for six years. For the last five years of the South Florida marathon circuit, Doug, Myself, Danny Carlson, Steve Brown, and Larry Hatfield swept at least the first three places in all of the marathon races. Often we ran first through fifth. We were all charter members of the Original Outboard Racing Club of the Palm Beaches, who sponsored three of the marathons each year. Because our rigs were not APBA legal, when the Marathon Circuit died off, we were forced out of the sport. The demise of the Marathon circuit was an end to a unique Era of open boat racing. If my memory is correct, the last year we ran the Gold Coast Marathon, there were over 250 boats that started the race in Miami on Saturday. Less than 160 finished both ways. My Dad is still alive, but Chris Erneston and Jimmie Dan Erneston have both passed away.

Parker, Archie
Archie Parker P-17 Leapin Lou cracker box owner has passed away in sept 2011. We took all the first place trophies in canada, seattle. We had the title US1 in about 1967? posted by: Gibson, Doug

Passi, Jim
I used to be on the pitcrew of E-138 280 class hydro Lady Bossworth owner was jan bossworth driver was bud  tomas we lived in edmonds/lynnwood  washington it was the old dough baby built buy chuck hickling when we got it it was in 7 race's it piched the driver out 7 times so we knew what the trouble was the steering fin was too big i was in hi school at the time & had use of all the machines hahahaha  so i cut it in about half it was just right we were in a lot of race's back in the mid 60s never won much but the boat did get the worlds record for week at 107 somthing I don't rember but the nat. beat it by 1/2 sec. if i rember right anyway it had a 264 buick engine in it we were allowed to balance the engines & could put .10" over size jets in the carb our # was E138  280 class i think that was a long time ago we were a low bugget bunch of guys hahahaha we did have a sponsor it was wynn's frication prooffing & lodge plug's they gave us oil & plug's we did all the rest on our own not like nowday if i rember right we had a 11x32 prop & 13x30 something thet was back in 1964-68 i was also in the pit of Mr Ps unlimited i cant rember the # it was owned by a guy we all called pint his last name was pintanisky or something like that it was the old WAHOO it it burnt in a fire in about 72 or 3 gave a chunk of miss bardahl's transom back of the boat to the hydro musum through a teacher i used to work with back about 10-15 years ago if i rember right it was from the patomic river 60s.

Patterson, John
My father raced outboard Hydroplanes in the 1930 with Mulford Scull and the Jacobys of New Jersey. The sound of a class C PR50 Johnson was music to my ears when I was 6 years old, so it was only fitting that I purchased an old 135 Hull from Billy Brown of Richmond, Va. in 1957, which formerly belonged to Jerry Powell, the boat was old and heavy and even with a good engine from Ralph Brogden in Rocky Mount, N.C. could not compete with the newer 136's. I bought a set of Hallet style frames from Will Farmer of Richmond, Va. and had a pretty decent 136. In the late 50's you could expect to go to most races in Region 4 and find 30 boats to compete with. Alton Pierson, Bob Baxter, and Stump Palmer were some of our top competitors then. A couple years later I tried a new Earl Kelly engine in my Hallet look alike but it was to much for the boat, so I bought Earl Kelly's Wildcat, a Hallet Hydo which he had great success with. (Kelley purchased a new Lauterbach hull). In my last eight races in 1960 I had five 1st., two 2nd., and one 3rd., not bad considering that you were running against the national high point champion Earl Kelly each race. I drove Homer Blands 266 Motorcraft Special at Elizabeth City, NC to join the Gulf 100 MPH Club. I retired in 1985 as Treasurer for the City of Newport News, Va. and moved to Waycross, Ga.

Pellerin, David
My dad owned a Farmer hull in the 60's call Intruder E-16. His nick name, as some of you may know, was POOCHIE.He passed away in 1980. I purchased my first boat from Marge Conley with the help of John and Ann Fitzgerald. It was a Sooy called QuickSilver. I won the 1984 uim championship at lake decatur. After a few years of 145's I moved up to 5-litre's. I drove Al Hassboler's Streaker for a while then had the chance to drive a world record holder that was owned by Richie Landiche called Hydrothearpy E-747, a Norberg . After a year they decided to give it up and then I started to drive the Chopper E-15, a Jones that Nick Manale and Jim Ransom owned.I had alot of good times before a good friend lost his life down in St Pete, Bobby Armbrewster. That is when I was asked to step down and let my lil brother drive. Today Nicky is doing very well with a 19 year old boat. He also is driving Don Mashburns new boat Mr. Bud and is doing well. I am still racing but it's on the dirt, but I would sure like to get back in the seat of a hydro.

Pelton, Fred
Fred Pelton received upon his death on July 31, 1954 the following: In Memory of Fred J. Pelton
The Members and Officers of Pelican Harbor Yacht Club were deeply grieved to hear of the passing of our good friend adn member Fred Pelton of July 31, 1954. Fred was one of the early member of Pelican Harbor Yacht Club and in his quiet, steady way did much to advance the welfare and improvement of our organizarion. Much of his time and energy went into the building of our club house and into the evolution and promotion of our racing committees on which he worked for many years and which he headed as fleet captain wnder two commodores. Fred Pelton will live forever in the hearts and minds of thoes who knew him well and the Fred J. Pelton Memorial Trophy donated by Charles Kettel shall perpetuate him in our club activities. I recall hearing about Uncle Fred installing a Crosley Engine in a wisp of a boat. He was my favorite Uncle. Email me here.

Place, Bill
Bill Place started his racing career in 1972 with a Hondo jet with a 392 Chrysler. By 1975 with Bobby Hall as his driver and Mike Kuhl tuning his Donovan, he earned his first High Points Championship, the boat was a Blown Fuel Jet, the name was Going Places 101. In 1976 Bill Place went to the drawing board and designed a hull  similiar to that of Going Places. He designed 3 different versions of the 18 ft. 8 in hull,each would be made to accomodate different horsepower. This new hull would be named Placecraft. After years of blood, sweat & tears, testing and testing again, on April 9, 1978 Bill Place's Going Places established a new Kern County Club record with the official time of 146.57 mph with an e.t. of 8.89. On October 30, 1983 Bill Places clocked a record 176.39 mph at Phoenix, Arizona. Bill Place, a World Record Holder, Lifetime Achievement award winner and High Points Champion. I am proud to say...he's my dad!!

Polhamus, Sherman
see bio here.

Poindexter, Scott
J. Scott Poindexter  Birth date: March 15, 1951. Scott used to race boats.  He has a lot of boat racing pictures. Scott has a friend who was a boat racer named Jeff Kelly.  Jeff lives in Kent, Washington. Former boat racers can contact him at: Scott Poindexter 25620 109th Avenue SE  Kent, Washington  98031. Scott needs a regular mailing address to send photographs. Any pictures will be sent by regular mail through the Post Office.

Poliakoff, Alex
Started racing D stock hydros in 1963.  Ran a sid-craft first.  It was a 'blow-over' special.  Then, I bought a hydro built by a guy in Sanford Maine named Carlton Sawyer.  That sob ran REAL well, It was numbered 8A.  My engine was 55H #984719, it would tach 8 grand on a test wheel in an instant.  Draft got me in 1965 and I sold all my stuff.  Don't really know where it went - time was tite.  Anybody with any clues, give me a shout.   thx Alex

Quirk, Harrison (Hoddy)
I started the racing world in 1946 when I built a 135 cu in John Hacker hull from plans in a boat book. The engine was a V-8 60 ford which was the main engine used in this class. The boat was less than successful but was great experience. I spent two years in germany and when I returned home to michigan I bought a Champion Hull for the 48 cu. in. class for $350.00. The rig was complete with Crosley and trailer and needed some hull restoration since it had been stored outside. I raced the 48 throughout region 6 until I retired the boat in 1961. With new family we decided to build a new Ingram 48 from plans that I was able to find. We raced that boat as HONK very successfully from 1963 until 1971. At that time we visited Ron Jones in Kent Washington and ordered a new Cabover Jones 48 to be delivered in the spring of 1972. After we received the boat we installed a Sunbeam IMP 875 cc engine which I had worked on before with the Ingram hull. The boat had a few bugs but by 1973 we had won the Nationals and 16 races in a row. The Sumbeam was the engine of choice and over the next few years all the 48's became 875cc with the Sunbeam engine. I sold the Jones in 1979 and ordered a new version from Ron Jones which was delivered in 1980. This is the boat I currently run as a vintage hydro. It still has a Sunbeam 1000cc engine in it and has won many races in its 30 years of existence. For a period the boat had a Chevy Sprint 901cc engine three cylinder engine which was mildly successful but not as fast as the Sunbeam. I retired in 1997 from active competion and joined the newly formed Vintage group. The first Jones was called MISS MuF and the second Jones is called Hoddys Quirk. I am running in the Vintage group when I can attend.

Radue, Alan
Born and raised in the northern suburbs of Detroit, Michigan which is a huge epi-center for hydroplane racing!  I can vividly remember as a youngster going to Belle-Isle and seeing Miss Pepsi in the infamous 'glass box'.  I remember passing the only pass we bought through the fence so my brother and I and my Grandfather could get in for one price at the races and still be able to afford to get a yearbook!  Been attending unlimited/limited hydroplane racing since the mid 70's and it is one of those passions I don't think I will ever grow out of.  Worked as a crew chief on the restoration of the 1972 U71 Atlas Van Lines. Went from there to racing stock outboards in the APBA where my greatest moment was winning the 1998 Nationals in the 'Top O' Michigan' Marathon. I purchased Agitator in 2000 which is a 280 class hydroplane built by Charles Lloyd to campaign on the V&H circuit.  After a complete restoration Agitator and ‘The Radue Pit Crew’ have campaigned all over the United States making many wonderful friendships and re-uniting the many former drivers with their once pride and joy.  At one point we were attending 8-10 events a year building the reputation of the quickly growing APBA V&H division.  Myself, Tom Bertolini, Carl Wilson and Hal LaDuc all with our hydroplanes hailing from Michigan were dubbed ‘The Michigan Navy’ because of the numerous back to back events we attended.  Such fun times!  In 2003 I was named APBA’s Vintage & Historic Vice Chairman and worked tirelessly promoting the class until 2008 when I stepped down because of my growing family.  In those same years I was Chairman of the Vintage & Historic Division at the Gold Cup and the ‘Detroit River Cruise’ all featuring vintage Unlimiteds, limited class vintage hydroplanes and well as classic woody’s.  My passion for vintage hydroplanes still burns bright to this very day.

Rankin, Pat
Owner and driver of a few 280 hydros, Miss Cindy Lu - Pandora's Box - Cavalier Too - unnamed farmer- Gimlet - Geronimo, Catch Drove a couple of 145's and a 7-liter several times. I am currently living in Virginia. Most of my driving career was spent in Washington DC and Florida area. I owned Farmer hulls and one Lauterbach 266. My Geronimo Farmer hull broke the Miami Stadium record in 1970 something. I understand it is almost rebuilt in PA.

Roberts, Jim
Drove S-45 Wild One to 2nd place at 1965 Nationals then drove S-151 Rif-Raf, also drove E class Shamrock year before Gene Whip drove it to a high point  championship. Involved in start up of Dayton Motor Boat Racing Ass. Presently live in Hattiesburg, MS . Retired since 1998.

Schnell, Boyd
I hail from Spokane Washington which used to be home for many hydro races in the past. Now, there is nothing but outboard hydroplanes which is what I started with in 1969. A four cylinder D Mercury powered my 9'8" Sid Craft over 70 mph. I was a total failure at boat racing in that I couldn't work on engines or drive worth beans! My only success was at the wheel of a blown alcohol dragster built by a veteran blind race mechanic named Richard Hand. Currently I am the proud father of the Nostalgic Circle Boats of Washington. My wife is the current ski class Champion and we race two SK Lavey-Craft Model C flatbottom v-drives each running vintage 396 chev power. My SK83 was Glen Stones' SS83 driven by Paul Grichar. Paul was Al Laveys test driver for some time until Al ceased production in 1977 of any more hand built hulls from the Pico Boat Shop, Pico Rivera California. They may have been the fastest of the fast flat bottoms having run 124 mph in 1974!  After my 1968 Marathon AquaCraft is finished, I would like to find an old 7 liter hydro just to see if my driving has improved any with age! 

Schulte, Joe John
Hey, everyone!! I went to my first boat race as an infant at the Parker Kilo trials. Dad set a record that day in c stock runabout. I grew up at stock outboard and limited inboard races all over the country. We raced all winter on the west coast and ran in the midwest from our summer place in Michigan. Dad was a racing fanatic and at one time in the 70's, we were racing boats, snowmobiles, motorcycles and airplanes simultaneously. My sister Sue and I cut our teeth in c stock hydro and then in 72/1200/1 liter stock hydro. We both won divisional championships and set comp and kilo records while supporting Dad in the 145/2.5 stock hydro, where he won both divisionals and the nationals all in the same year. All in all, we had a lot of fun and learned a lot and met some wonderful people along the way. After my father's death in 1986, I tried to run a couple of years, but my heart just wasn't in it. I still love the vintage hydros, though and all this interest in the old boats has really sparked my interest... maybe even enough to drag out the old equipment...that's right I still have the original Yaller Dawg a 1964 Jones cabover 145, Junkyard Dawg a 1976 Dick Sooy 72 and Alley Cat a 1965 piranha hull built by my father and Ted May ran as a 48 hydro. Anyone with tips or advice on where to begin restoring these boats, please feel free to email me.

Schulte, Sue
Wow! "Vintage" Hydroplanes, Does that make me ancient? Still miss my racing days, and all the wonderful people involved in racing too!......I drove T-44 Junkyard Dawg. My brother's blurp pretty much says it all. I would love to hear from anyone from the past!!

Shaffer, Al
My father Alvin Shaffer from Columbus, Ohio raced for Byers in the early 50's thru the 60's  I have several photos of him while driving H-33 and H-34 Miss Desoto I and II. I have a silver 1st place trophy he won in Charlston WV as well as a speed record certificate he set of 114 mph in Martinsville, WV in 1953. I would like to compile all the informaton on my father I can and hope your great web site may help. Hope to hear from anybody who can help me!

Simpson, Don
I began following the hydroplane circuit in the summer of 1967. I traveled to many races with my dad photographing many of the events we attended. I would later become a crew member for the Golden Princess, GP404 Driven by JP Lessard  (1984-85). I then became the photographer for the Grand Prix Hydroplane Club, winning the photography award in the years 1984,1986. From 1987 to 1989 I was a crewmember for the Orange Crush team, (GP151) driven by Jimmy King. I then crewed with the (GP 5) owned and driven by Steven Kew. Stumbling on this web site sure brings back a lot of good memories of day's gone-by. I do hope that the site continues. Don Simpson Ottawa, Canada

Sininger, Keith
Bob La Rue, Jokin Around hydro from 1970s. I am looking for more info on relative. Pics, videos if possible.

Skinner, Dave
In 1960 I won the New York State championship in C & D Stock Hydroplanes under the racing number of 3N. Lived at 2001 Sweet Home Rd in Williamsville, New York (Buffalo). Won the New york State Divisionals. Belonged to the Niagara Frontier Boat Racing Association in Tonawanda, New York and was entered into the  Courier Express Boating Hall of Fame in 1960. I raced two hulls which were one of the first cabover outboards raced. They were designed by Jim Coutts of Tonawanda, New York. I have scrap book photos and news articles.

Stevens, Jean
My father is the approaching 92 years old.  He designed and built Stevens SK boats off El Segundo Blvd. in the 60's. Anyone with information about his boats or history of his boats and the Marine Stadium era of Long Beach in the 50's and 60's?

Stith, Kenneth L
Owned & drove boat S-128 Right On 145ci hydro. My grandfather (PAPPY) bought the boat originaly called Rift Raft and with help from both Durb King and Dal Kreamer reworked some of the angels on the sponsons and rudder of the boat and had it running pretty good for his first hydro he ever owned and drove. Ken worked with Durb King at Cinn. Gas & Electric Co. and became very close freinds. We travaled all over the mostly in region 6 first towing one of Durbs boats Bon Bon A-86 & Bon Bon Too N-86 until (Pap) got to drive Durbs boat at Madison were he got his licence to drive and drove the Bon Bon Too 225ci hydro at Conley Bottoms in second heat against Danny Walls driving N-56 Just A Pest and N-64 Moms Nightmare and finished 2nd place overall and kept the trophy but Durb got the cash! Just some really great old memories of the days gone by. We lost (Pap) in 1977 to cancer but he would be proud to have his name is in the history books finally. In LOVING MEMMORY ALWAYS - Stephen M. Points

Swindling, Tom
Hello to all my old Boat Racing friends from over the years! I'm living in Cincinnati, Ohio. I was one of the four founders of the MACH SERIES in 1984 along with Pat Powell (OVMBRA), Phil Kunz (DMBRA) and Ray Dong (Marine Prop Riders). I was President of the Northern Kentucky Boat Racing at the time. I'm the past owner of the 2.5L Mod. A-30 Old Style Special, formerly, Inchoots & Tommy D'Eath's Southern Style Lauterbach. Then sold it back to Tommy to acquire the Browning's Panchanga, formerly, Come To Play & Mr. Bud. My drivers were Jackie Meyers from Louisville, KY and Steve Jones from Myrtle Beach, SC. What am I doing now...Racing Go-Karts and trying to do the same thing we did for inboard hydroplane racing with the MACH SERIES to Kart racing. I'm currently Vice President of one of the oldest and largest Kart Clubs in the USA with over 300 Members. Visit our website at www.ovka.com.

Swor, Larry
Jerry Shank, Rod Olson, Norm Wallin, and myself ran Anzanis for Bill Tenney after Davie Berg was killed in a race at Duluth, Minn. in 1961. We raced NOA out of St. Paul for 11 years. We had some success but most of all we created wonderful friends and memories that still last to this day. Shank went to work for Tenney for about 10 years replacing Johnny Eastman as Bill's R& D and chief mechanic - ending up at Polaris for the next 30 years. Wallin last seen in Des Moines, Iowa. Olson and myself ended up in Central Florida for the past 40 years. I have our 1961 original Dubinski A/B Hydro and also original B Anzani - both show quality thanks to Shank.

Sykes, Bob, Jr.
After WWII, my dad Bobby Sykes, Sr. gave up dry lakes racing and started racing speed boats. He met up with Fred Hubburd and drove one of his 48's. He ran into Clay Smith in Long Beach who asked him to go to work for him. It turned out to be an 11 year run until Clay got killed. During that time, Bob ground cams and drove boats.  IE - Ethyl X, set a Mile Record at Salton Sea in Joe Guess's Guess Who at 121+ MPH beating Paul Sawyers Alter Ego record for the Fastest Mile on the Salton Sea and received the Diebold Award along with entry into the Gulf 100 MPH Club.  He built the engines for Jerry Longin of Miss O'Keefe fame who broke Bob's record and again for Sid Street driving Z-Z-Zip who broke Jerry's record. He had his own hull designed and built by Burney Edwards with a Sykes flathead and named it The Duchess. It was a 266 Hydro. Bob built the Hemis used in Chrysler Crew for Bill Sterret when he worked at Keith Black Racing Engines. He and Gene Mooneyham took care of the contract for that endeaver with the Chrysler Marine Division.  We are very proud of him. It was really cool back in the days of what we now call, Vintage Hydroplane Racing. Bob, Sr. passed away Aug 9, 2009. Oh, about 1988 I came into a gold mine find of Kent Hitchcocks 8x10 black & white Speed Boat photos which were for sale at a swap meet in Costa Mesa. I have them catagorized into classes except for the outboards which I never paid too much attention to, inboards are my thing. Most of the photos were featured in Kent's Speed and Spray Magazine of the 1950's. Bob Sykes Jr. 10/09/2008.

Taylor,  John,  A
Exposed to stock and alky racing as a toddler back in the 1950s in Selkirk, Manitoba.  At that time the local association was the Manitoba Outboard Racing Association.  Loved the sound and action and grew with it as parents and the rest of the family found it a great sumer spectator sport at the Red River waterfront just hundreds of feet away from the family home. Enlisted as my neighors pitman at the age of 13 for the C-Service and C-Racing hydros and runabouts built by my neighbor E.J. Ted Coates, a commercial and bush pilot by profession. When Coatsie retired from racing I bought his nearly new self built Ogier C-D Stock hydro and with a Merc KG-9 at the age of 16 graduated from a pitman to a D Stock Hydro owner driver. Over the years accumulated Mercury racing equipment to race B, C and D Stock hydro and Runabout through out the province of Manitoba and ventured south and into the immediate Midwest area in the USA in Stock Outboard versus Alkys of the immediate Midwestern Area of the USA running 20H powered by haydros against B-Alkys and D Stocks against D Alkys under handicap rules. The late sixties were the interesting times with the emerence as Mercury as the force in 8 different classes of hydro and runabout racing.  The emergence of Konig, British Anzani, Quincy Deflector, Quincy Loop Falthead, Crescent and  Harrison made up the bulk of the Alky scenes of racing. The 1970s saw racing expand in our areas to the point where we had 8 scheduled race sites every summer plus some southward treks.  The late 1970s saw racing expand to MORA local memberships racing in Calgary area of Souther Alberta and Northward to Edmonton, Alberta with some forays into Montana's flathead lake country and with them reciprocating into Canada.  Fields of 20 over hydros for eliminations heats was not uncommon in many classes.  There was some Alky activity with Bs and Ds most notable were the Anzanis and Konigs in B and D Alky hydro though a very small near select group handled them. In the early 1980s with support declining in Stock Outboard by Mercury most clubs declined with it in Western Canada to the point that there was nearly no racing in Western Canada with some holdouts in Manitoba who quickly switched to Modified Outboard with membership affiliating southward and in 1996 the membership split from its USA club member affiliations in Modified Outbaord and became its local club again. Since 1990 a group of the stock racing Mercury H engines have been put away for posterity and the rest dispersed to other collectors for their collections around North America in both the USA and in Canada.  We have a Modified racing team affiliated with the Manitoba Racing Power Boat Association running C-Mod, D-Mod and Formula E Modified Mercurys.  During the period I started collecting and restoring engines I coud only dream of in my early formative years as in British Anzani, inheriting the remainder of engines and parts stocks from racing great Bill Tenney who I met as a teenage and pitman for Coatesie.   Next came the opportunity to obtain hard run and in pieces five  Quincy Loop Flathead 2 and 4 cylinder engines for rebuild/overhauls as well as some Quincy-Merc padded block Alky deflectors. Adding to all that came the Crescent Super C and even a Merc Twister 6 cylinder tunnel boat engine to do the same but no boat to run it on at this point. The future is Modiified Outboard in hydros and in the collection and rebuilding overhauls of these "in your dreams" classic Alkys.  Because of having a lot of parts of engines accumulated and on hand, unallocated parts have found themselves at new homes all over the world helping others complete classic outboard projects of their own from those spare parts. I write about my experiences some racing, some technical and some helpful on subject matters about vintage Merc racing engines in  Stock Outboard, Modified Outboard and classic Alkys specifically the British Anzani since I had them running though very limitedly since prior to 1980 and in the 1990s to date helping with the Quincy Flathead Looper and Quincy Deflector Padded Block Alkys. I am one of those convinced that Mercury has not been fully explored in C, D and Formula E Modified outboard yet because of how their development stopped abruptly when the Quincy Flathead Loopers came on sream in the latter half of the 1960s. Though running them as gas modifieds is not the Alky intent of the middle 1950s forward to the advent of the Quincy Flathead as a gasoline powered Modified there is still some undiscovered and undeveloped black maginc there that people are pursuing in racing Modified and I am one of those many looking for those developments. I like helping anmyone with anything they recognize I have some help I can offer them and I am always ready to learn some more from others offering their views and help in small outboard racing.  You can find me virtually daily at the Swamp Pit and CORE Internet sites and the same on hydroracer.net carrying on in the best interests of the sport with technical articles and at times, especially in winter getting wacky as a result of the cabin fever we develop here from too long a winter with virtually very little snow but very cold! I can be emailed at: anzani@mts.net or called by telephone here in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada at: (204) 667-3815.

Taylor, Dave
I started running race boats in the mid fifties including D utility runabouts cracker box (drags) Sanger flatbottom (K 91) and built and raced with partners a Ron Jones cabover 7 liter Hydroplane (J4 MR.CHET) which won the inboard division of the Parker Arizona 9 hour enduro race in 1971 am mostly retired from racing now but have managed to campaign a modified roadster at the Bonneville Salt Flats for the past dozen or more years It has been great fun over the years.

Taylor, Ron
Semi-retired Judge from Michigan with racing avocation. Primarily a car racer with experience in everything from karts to stocks to formula cars.  Part of Indy car team for awhile in the 80's and early 90's. Currently still heavily involved in vintage formula car racing through JERT Vintage Racing of St. Joseph, Mich.  Added vintage hydros to the mix during the mid-90's, driving the Yellow Streak, a 280 Tempte Cabover.  This boat continues to be run by JERT with Jack Engelhardt up.
In 2003 JERT acquired Happy Buddha  a 1968 Lloyd 280 hydro.

Temte, Glenn H.
Growing up in the twenties and thirties, Dad was a very enthusiastic model airplane builder. When WWII happened he always said it was an opportunity for him to serve his country and learn to fly so he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. He piloted B-26 Marauders and also flew C-46s and C-47s over the China-Burma-India Hump. After the war he ran Browns Hobby Shop in Minneapolis, MN for awhile. He then became a third generation career Minneapolis Firefighter. His interest in model airplanes continued. In 1948 he set a control line world speed record (Air Trails magazine December 1948, pgs. 45 & 107) with one of his model jet airplanes at just over 179 MPH that held for many many years. He also designed and flew what was called a staggered wing, model jet airplane. U.S. Patent #2580484 (01/01/1952, Jet-Propelled Airplane) is his. He then developed an interest in outboard hydroplane boat racing. Soon he became interested in inboard hydroplane racing. He was an APBA member (#405 in 1984) and an inspector and had a reputation of brutal honesty. Locally he was a member of the Northwest Powerboat Association. He was also a member of the Marine Prop Riders out of Detroit, Michigan. Early on he built wood hydroplanes. In the sixties he became involved in building all-fiberglass inboard hydroplanes. He would design and build a prototype or full size model. A mold was then made from the prototype. Then from the mold the final product or boat was produced. He designed and built several different all-fiberglass boats over the years from conventional hulls to cabover pickle-forks. Weight and balance were crucial in any design of his. He really enjoyed designing, building and driving his boats. Dad also had other drivers pilot his boats. Larry Roesner and his wife Lois (believed to be the first ever female APBA inboard driver) as well as Ritchie Dittrich were drivers at times. We believe he was the first to incorporate the use of an off-set rudder. This came about quite accidentally one day at a race when the prop broke and damaged the rudder. He figured it only made sense to then move the rudder left of center. Dad always got a laugh when he noticed other boats with off-set rudders at future races that even included the v-shaped notch on the leading edge of the rudder that was actually just a cleaned up gouge in the blade! Another interesting innovation was to have only one single lifting point on the boat instead of four which made things easier when putting the boats in and out of the water with a crane and reduced the strain on the wooden motor mount stringers. For many years our family vacations centered on going to races from Seattle to New York and all around the country. The last two registered boat numbers he owned and raced were E-149 Mike and S-149 Pete (formerly Ike) as part of the Mike racing crew/team (1984). We also built mahogany wood/fiberglass runabouts and redwood strip/fiberglass canoes. For winter-time fun in the early seventies we built a DN iceboat and, of course, an all-fiberglass (prototype/mold/product) Skeeter Class iceboat that are still in operation today. Dad was also responsible for the unique Water Clock (The World of Boat Racing magazine, August 1965, pgs. 12 & 25) used at many races in the sixties and seventies. As electricity was usually not available, he designed and built an all wood/plywood two deck pontoon boat that housed the judging stand on top and a starting clock with a 10 foot face on one side. The Water Clock would be anchored out near the course. My job was running the clock, cannon and flags. To run the clock a cork was pulled, at the one minute gun, on a specially designed wooden trough filled with water. The second hand on the clock, connected by a pulley, would then rotate as the water drained from the trough. The clock was accurate to within a fraction of a second. At the time of his passing in July 1986, he was working on a prototype for a pickle-forked cabover 145. The driver was to be lying down on his back with his feet forward. The enclosed cockpit would have had separate oxygen and there was to be a joystick system for steering. You would have liked talking with him.
Michael Glenn Temte (son)  May 2008.

Tepper, Robert I
Long Branch Regatta in the 50's was my first intro to hydroplane racing. Then (12 yrs old) I took hundreds of color slides mostly of outboard runabouts and hydros...many are razor sharp. One good pix is of Y-56 with driver clearly portrayed. If you ran at Long Branch on those days I would love to match you up with my pictures. Dan Ardolino an early owner driver of JS-1 JO CAROL TOO took me to regattas at RED BANK, NEW MARTINSVILLE and CAMBRIDGE, MD.  In late '50's the Long Branch (N.J.) Daily Record had a "Boating Corner". I wrote that column, covering regattas that, my 'idol', Dan Ardolino ran JS-1 Jo Carol Too. Dan and his wife Jo were at my wedding. My wife an I still 'bring out their gift - a huge linen table cloth. Steve Schmitt, a 'crusty' owner/driver of JS-? let me keep my boat at his Pleasure Bay 'spread'. In those days Jack VanDeman owned the marina where Long Branch (N.J.) hosted a regatta that had A Runabouts, wood planked Skiffs, and up to 266 Hydros. One could hear the thunder miles away, on Broadway, where the merchants who supported the event, did business. Today, at 75, I still keep 'my foot to the firewall', here in our den, tiptoeing down the back stretch, slamming into turn 3 with "Gimme Thunder" on my hip, our rooster tails hiding other hometown favorites .  .  .  Oh, I must have been dreaming.

Thompson, Calvert E. Sr.
Calvert "Callie" Thompson Sr. from (Dominion) Chester, MD raced the P.O.D. Wildcat from 1955 to 1960. He won the Eastern Championship in 1955 and was elected that year to The Gulf Marine Hall of Fame. In 1956 he received the High Point Plaque for region IV and was High Point champion in the nation.  He still resides in his Dominion home as does his boat Wildcat.

Thompson, Howard Sr.
Raced APBA Stock Outboard Class B Hydro, C Hydro, D Hydro and F Racing Hydro from 1953 thru 1962. Awarded US High Point in APBA Hydro for 1954 and received the John and Flora Blank Trophy for the first year it was awarded. Raced APBA Stock B and D Runabout in Needles and Blyth Colorado River Marathons. Second boat back in 1957 B Class and first overall boat back in 1958. Won overall B Class at Blyth Marathon in 1958. Initially ran Swift B and D Hydro Hulls then built own hulls from scratch for B, C and D Class Hydros including a B Class runabout floater hull which was raced only in marathons.  Still have parts for Mec KG-9 and several props in storage all for sale now for at 81 won't be doing much racing anymore.

Tiger, John
I started racing in APBA-OPC division in the early 1980s as a teenager; I ran J-Production class from 84-86 and was National Champion in 85/86 and National High Points Champion in 86. I also have several regional and divisional titles from those years. I also ran Mod-VP, EP and SST-45 from 1986-1991. I ran Outboard Drag classes from 1996-2001. I currently have four Outboard vintage race boats, three of which are still in the restoration process. I am currently enjoying running my 1976 Allison 15' J-Production boat at Vintage events. I look forward to running upcoming events hopefully with more of my Vintage Outboard boats completed. John Tiger 9/20/11

Timmins, David
Raced out of Syracuse, NY in the early 50s. Ran A and B hydro and utility. Had a spedliner, wagner step hydro and later a swift hydro. The swift was owned by Pat Ryan probably one of the best in the country who was killed in an auto accident on the way to defend his national title in Knoxville, Tenn. The hull was later destroyed at the 
nationals in Syracuse NY.

Tracey, Bruce
Joined the vintage family after 8 yrs rebuilding the Blide/Lauterbach SHOCKWAVE 1972.  The boat was raced in the late 70's and 80's as NO RESPECT. So far I have run at Pontiac 2005, Clayton and Wyandotte 2006.  Did a little racing in the 50's and 60's in B utility Sid Craft and D Raveua. I'm really strugling with the computer email and would love to hear from any Vintage folks around Region 6. Bruce Tracey  616.399.1709  1918 Poplar St. Holland, Mi

Trayford, Edward  Jr.
My name is Edward Trayford Jr. My father and I started racing 280 Hydro's in 1957. My father and I built our first two boats Hula Girl and Hula Girl II. In 1960 I had Will Farmer build a 280 Hula Girl III in 1962. I took first place at Ilse View, Tonawanda, NY, Buffalo Launch Club, Buffalo, NY, Port Indian, Norristown, Pa. where I also ran the straightaway Kilo at 104.6 mph. I was also Region 2 High Point winner in 1962 and also inducted into the Gulf 100 MPH Club. I don't remember who I sold the first boat to. The Hula Girl IIHula Girl III was sold to someone in Canada, the boat disintagrated at Vallyfield, Qubec. In 1963 I had Will Farmer build Hula Girl IV. I never got to race this boat because of military service. I sold the Hula Girl IV to Torby Barker of Niagara Falls, NY who sold it to Don Less of Grand Island, NY who I understand did not secure it on the trailer and lost it and was destroyed. You have a great web page, it bring's back many wounderful memories. I am now retired and live in Fort Worth, Texas. I do have pictures of all my boats. When I find them I will send them.
was sold to Lenny Justa Of Tonawanda, NY. The

Van Amber, Mike
I am looking for any sort of information (old photos, news articles) on my father, Jerry Van Amber. Jerry was a charter member in the region 6 stock outboard hall of fame, who raced in the mid to late 50's in the michigan-wisconsin-ontario area. any information would be helpful.

VanBomel, Bob
Clearwater, Florida resident, began racing in 1974 in a Van Wagoner outboard SJ tunnel boat powered by a Mercury 1500. He quickly moved up to the UJ class where he ran a Zonkercraft tunnel boat powered by a Mercury Twister 1. After a bad crash, he switched to the flat bottom inboard class where he started in the SK class and moved up to the KRR class, where he campaigned his Hondo flatbottom, Wildfire

Vallejo, Ernie
My father was Ernie (Earnest) Vallejo. He raced boats back in 1976-1979. He was killed in a circle boat race. The accident was at Castaic Lake, CA on Oct.14,1979. I am looking for any old pictures or articles on him. His boat was yellow w/blue, PC-33 was the boat number and it was called Resurrection. If anyone can help me with this search please e-mail me. Thank you. Sandra Van Sickle

Villella, Janet
Ed Balogh -  Ed Balogh of Bal Construction and Bill Place of Northwest Paving were the owners of the 18 foot Going Places # 101 which held the all time speed record of 176.86 miles per hour. It was powered by a 2,500 horsepower, 485 cubic-inch Donovan engine using nitromethane fuel. The record did not come easily. They had been racing since 1972 and tried many combinations of boat bottom and hardware modifications and engine changes to get a record. In 1978 their efforts paid off to set a new world record for jet drive boats running a quarter-mile course at 162.48 only to break their own record the next day running 176.86 miles per hour. My father retired that year and continued boat building on a part-time basis while keeping his construction company.  My father is now deceased and I have to say that Going Places world record was one of the most exciting and proudest moments of his life.

Veniero, Bob Bobby Vee
started racing in NJ in 1982. campained a 24ft formula called Blackjack running the northeast circut in the NPBA. drove and navigated Instant Air a 31ft chris cat from 1985 untill retiring in 1988. in the six year career 2 national championships and 1 world championship. today we run a 38ft cigarette KAOS in the NJPPC pokeruns.

Wallman, Lou
STARTED DRIVING IN 1969 With a Blown Gas Hydro (Horrible Harry) and then on to a Blown Fuel Hydro (The Californian). I then started driving the Blown fuel Jet (Rated X) in which I had a serious crash at Long Beach California. I'm now living in Van Buren Arkansas, teaching Automotive at Van Buren High School. I also had a Top Alcohol Funny Car (The Arkansas State Trooper) which I sold and now have a Pro Fuel Car. (01/12/2012)

Wallof, Ed Wally
Wally Wallof builder of mostly F RUNABOUTS for Chuck Parsons of Lodi, CA and others from 1958-1970.

Walker, Rich
Started in BSH in '67 with Stu Shane (cousin/partner). Built hydro from a set of Hal Kelly plans. Purchased Lloyd hull (850cc) Y-54, raced in region 4. Purchased Sooy hull, 1972, 145 cu.in. Followed circuit with Tom D'Eath and Southern Style. Built 145 hull, with Bill Roberts of Bonanza fame in Havre de Grace, Md.  Cousin Stu and his family still very active in racing today. I presently live in Phoenix, Az.

Walther, George Jr.
Dayton, Ohio Although George was best known in motorsports for his Indy cars, he was the biggest supporter of inboard racing in Dayton. He was active in the Greater Dayton Boat Club, which conducted races on the Miami River from 1946 until 1955. "When the Dayton Motor Boat Racing Association was formed in 1963, the first meeting was held at George's boathouse. Over a 45-year span, George campaigned a total of fifteen different Country Boy hydros in the 135s (A-class), 266s (F-class), 7-Litres (H-class), and Unlimiteds (U-class)." Mr. Walther raced outboards in the late 1920s and was an Unlimited hydroplane owner from 1971 to 1976. His best Unlimited finish was a third-place in the 1974 Dayton Hydroglobe with his son, David "Salt" Walther, as driver. His oldest son, George "Skipp" Walther III, was fatally injured while trying to qualify as an Unlimited driver with Jim McCormick's Red Man at Miami, Florida, in 1974. George Walther, Jr., played an important role in George Simon's landmark tax case of 1963. The IRS, in that situation, upheld Simon's contention that Unlimited racing was a legitimate business expense (within specified guidelines) and thereby tax deductible. Simon introduced records which demonstrated that his U.S. Equipment Company's volume of business had increased substantially during the years that Simon had been involved in racing--and with no other change in normal business promotion. Walther testified how he had met Simon at an Unlimited race in the 1950s. They became friends, and Walther eventually became Simon's customer. The favorable IRS ruling helped to open the door to major corporate participation in Unlimited racing. The friendship between Walther and Simon led to Salt Walther being hired as pilot for Simon's Miss U.S. racing team in 1970. Submitted by: Musson, Robert

Wartman, Cliff
Native of Northern Kentucky and lived around the corner from the garage of Dal Kremer in Bellevue. In the mid and late 50's was a crewmember, first on Dal's E-54 MOONSHINE BABY and after helping to build the H-54 MOONSHINE BABY, helped crew it also. Since Clyde Fox was such a nice guy, I also shared my duties on Clyde's H-3 IBETU. Met many great people in the Mid-West on the racing circuit, some of whom I have already seen in the directory.

Welsh, Art
I am the proud son of Art Welsh he raced for many years C and D hydro and C, D and unlimited runabout. We belonged to the MPBA and the N.O.A. My Dad is no longer with us. So many races World Champion races in St.Paul....Midland Mich (we got a few trophys there)...my dad had a C merc that just screamed. In qualifying race that year he peeled the bottom right off of his swift. My Dad raced from the late 50's-early 70's..after that he was known in St.Paul as the Merc Man and all the merc dealers would send them their customers when it involved the old iron that they couldn't or wouldn't fix. My proudest moment in life was when they called my Dad's name to come to the podium in Mich to get his trophies..no firsts but some seconds and third places..my Dad turned to me and said "go get them son" and I went and got his trophies and a kiss from Miss Michigan...the trophies are the most valuable treasures in the world. as my Dad would say "Full Bore". Anyone who knew my Dad please feel free to write. David Welsh

Wenner, Tom
My name is Tom Wenner I used to race in the Jersey Speed Skiff class.I am married and reside in Oceanport NJ.I still enjoy my skiff JS-12 Pure Adrenalin today as river boat. I became interested in vintage when I acquired my other (3) boats: a 1974 17' FRAHS SS V-drive a 1967 Stevens 15.6'outboard flat bottom and a 1969 sweet 16' Donzi. I am planning on bringing the flat bottoms to some vintage events in the near future. I met alot of great people through boat racing and would like to stay involved in the vintage end of it for years to come.

Whipp, John
Hi, I am Gene Whipp's baby brother. Celebrated my 60th birthday this year. Really enjoy looking at the different Vintage Hydroplane links. I was one of the charter members of DMBRA. Was in charge of program sales at our first race at EASTWOOD PARK. Remember finding seaweed growing one week before our 1st race, and thanks to John Culver donating some of his boats using grapling hooks to remove the seaweed and Gene and I going to the Golden Lamb, in Lebanon, OH to corner Governor Rhodes to have him send the state seaweed cutter, we were able to clear the racecourse of seaweed. The first race was a success, with many more races to follow. We had boats coming in from everywhere. I remember DMBRA first meeting at Walther Marina, the basement of Kunz Lawn and Garden Center, and then at Poelking Bowling Alley.
We had a Bowling Team. We would always have to stall the 1st game waiting for Gene to show up. He worked at Hauer Music and they closed at 9:00. We started bowling at 830 and if Gene did not show by the 5th frame we were a man short. During the summer we would travel to KY, WVA, VA, MI, IL, IN, and all over OHIO. If we were lucky go to Miami Marine Stadium in January, and St Pete in February. I got out of following hydros in 1965 when I joined the Navy. Got out in 1969 and really never got back into it. Did follow some of the races in Dayton, but my wife at the time had no interest. I have lived for the last 20 years in Charleston, S.C. I am manager of an import/export Trucking/Warehouse Company.One disapointment to me was the movie Madison. You know and I know Jim Mccormick was from Owensboro, KY not Madison, IN. I was crewman for Jim when he had a 280 hydro. I feel a movie, especially biography should be truthful. Have many good memories of boat races of the 50's and 60's and have 4 cases of slides to prove it. If anyone from region 6 wants to remember the good-old-days, send me an email.

Whitley, Doug
I purchased a 225 in 1958 and raced it until 1961. I named the boat Miss Goodwin. It was a Hallet / Studebaker which Billy Schumacher drove and won the 1960 National Championship at Cape Coral, FL. The boat was sold to a John Ryan in 1961. John renamed the boat Shillelagh.  (Doug passed in 2015. He was also a former APBA Vintage & Historic Chairman).

Widmer, Stanley
Built my first hydro at the age of 14. Turning 16 I started racing in the 92 mile marathons in class A stock living with my folks on lake Winneabago Oshkosh, WI. As i got heavier I moved into D stock boat number D-88W. The last year I raced my boat had to be totally rebuilt. I was thinking there had to be a better hull material. After college in 1959 I was hired at the Mercury outboard Research Center. Spent a little time on the hydro which cranked out 117 miles per hour. Moving to MN with my wife i was working for Graco as a project engineer in Minneapolis still thinking about a better hull material.In the mid sixties a cross-link polyethylene was INVENTED. I tested this material and saw the strength as well as a molded memory. My thoughts went to a double wall with kiss-offs joining both walls in the molding process. No molder  would quote any parts telling me it would not work. I left Graco in 1972 forming a company as an industrial Desing Engineer. I proposed my double wall concept to a company and we proved my concept would work. I ran a patent search, finally began developing designs for military and consumer boats which would reduce the G- loads and also be unsinkable.My patent issued in 2002. My business hit thew skids after offshore trading & 9-11 kicked in. I got on a military bid site looking for interest in my double wall hull. After years of talking I got a contract to build a test boat which is being tooled at present. FEA Studies were conducted dropping a glass and my rotational molded boat with inboard engine and jet drive from 15 feet at 21 mph. The glass boat was at 20-g's and my rotational double wall at 13 g's. A big engineering breakthrough for reducing broken legs, ankles as well as back problems. My crew will be back in Oshkosh spring 2010 to test the first 7-meter patrol boat rotational molded in a double wall with my patented hull structure. If the Navy likes the performance we will be starting on a 11.8 meter with twin engines.I have writen a book which should be published soon The Journal of a Business Man. I talk of my boat in my book (danceing to the music) crossing waves at high speed with screeming high RPM's.  We tested the 7-meter patrol boat on Lake Winneabago Oshkosh WI with the ONR abd Navy present May, June, July 2010. The hull, deck and all hatches are rotational molded in a double wall with my patent issued kiss-offs October 2002 joining both walls together during the molding cycle. Testing went very well in white cap conditions with a softer ride. In all water conditions the design of the chines as well as the hull profile handled like a dream. In a turn in light chop conditions i could take my hands off the wheel and the boat tracked whatever I had set up.The navy then tested on the east coast starting in late JULY  to december 2010, the only comment back was that is one tough boat.I presently have two patents pending on a weight reduction supension chair reducing the weight from 100 pounds to 30 pounds. Also a sliding truss design for larger boats. Presently doing a design study on a 36' twin engine patrol boat using cummins engines at 480 hp each in an advanced rotational mold boat.If the 36' boat moves forward a 60' inline rotational molding machine will be purchased which will allow molding of boats in a length up to 53'. Molding time for this size boat is around 4 to 6 hours. This is using the polyethylene cross-link material. After that tuns out to be a success we would consider a 120' in line rotational molding machine. Molding time for a 110' boat to be around two shifts (16 hours). No other process will match this in time and cost to build. Go to my website <stanleywidmerassociatesinc.com> to view the tool build, video on the water in Oshkosh WI which is my home town. You also can see my proposed hubsite built in conjunction with an expanded runway here in Staples MN.Goal is to have everything in one location from engineering to dropping the boat into a heated boat tanks to test engines befor final shipment by air, rail, or truck. My boat group consists of six people at present with several sub contractors.
Stanley Widmer Stanley Widmer Associates Inc 1406 Prairie Ave NW Unit A PO Box 216 Disablied Vet Small Business Defense Contractor

Wilson, Carl
I started racing in Miami, FL in 1969 with a Lloyd 280 called Black Jack. I raced mostly in Florida; especially at Marine Stadium. In the early 80's I bought the 225 Lauterbach Tiger but it had been converted to a 280 with a Dodge engine from the Ramchargers. With the advent of the cabovers I bought the Staudacher 280  Weekend Warrior in 1982. After two disappointing years, we found the Warrior to be to heavy for racing because of extensive repairs. I bought Ron Brunner's Kelson 280 J.B. & Water in 1984 and renamed it Supermarine. I raced that boat with a Plymouth engine until 1988. That fall Tom D'Eath suggested I take a look at Ed Sharp's Ron Jones 5 Litre called Bandit. I bought the Bandit Thanksgiving weekend. One week after winning the 1990 Eastern Divisionals in Raleigh, N.C. I was involved in a serious accident in Toledo, Ohio which caused me to retire. However I briefly returned to race in the Grand Prix class with the purchase of the Staudacher Shop Smith.  I renamed it Textile Productions. I had recently reacquired the Lauterbach Tiger and converted back to a 225 with Buick power for vintage racing.

Wilson, Floyd
Started Racing in 1954, drove a "D" hydro which my uncle built, he owned Wilson Boat Works in Wisconsin. I later had a Class "F" Cabover built by my uncle. I placed 5th in the 1961 World Championship held in St. Paul, Minnesota. I later got my son Steve involved in racing. Retired from racing in 1966 and moved to Los Angeles.
Floyd passed away Feb 22, 2002. Rembrances, email here.

Wiese, Russell
Alot of the guys knew me as "Rusty Wiese" back in those days. I was involved in boat racing in Miami Florida from 1951 up until 1973. Mostly marathon races with my dad Frank Wiese back then. We ran a Higgins design 14 ft with a Ford V8 60 Flathead. We also ran an E racing runabout later built from the Popular Mechanics designs (1959) called the Panther. I built this boat in my 9th grade wood shop thanks to Bernard Kurland the instructor. My Dad and I ran the Gold Coast Marathon every year from 1951 until it was finally stopped sometime in the late 60`s. I ran a Harry Schoell designed 17 ft, chevrolet powered (1961) for many years in the APBA new class  (IPC) or inboard pleasure craft. Boat name Cookie. Some of the events i ran in were the Around Miami Beach, 9 hour Enduro sponsored by the Pelican Harbor Yacht Club in Miami of which i was a member. Also ran in the E racing runabout at pelican harbor with a Pontiac powered E boat.(Panther) But i can tell you that i really admired my seniors such as Howard Abbey. Howard Hibbert. Sam Griffith, Ken and Harry Schoell who were instrumental for my desires to race boats.Thanks to Dick Cooper, Del Daley, Lou Nuta, Jose Fernandez, Robert Northcut and the Pelican harbor Yacht Club and many more. I have many years of memories for my sport! I was a designer and builder of Anacapri Boats as a partner for 12 years of which i continued to race boats. I currently have a 1967 Stevens Flatbottom i am restoring. I still live in the Hollywood Fla area but i have my sights on Missouri soon of which i would like to continue messing with vintage boats.

Williams, Art
Art Williams won 1st Place Inboard Tunnel and placed 1st Inboard and 6th overall in the 1975 Parker 7-Hour Enduro (originally the 9-Hour Enduro begun in 1963).  His boat was IT80 "Loudmouse" and his co-driver was his son, Greg Williams. His Molinari Inboard Tunnel was set up by Jerry Lembke owner of Speed & Marine Associates out of Orange, California.  The "IT" stands for Inboard Tunnel, aka "KT" and eventually renamed "ET" for Endurance Inboard Tunnel. There were seven ITs on the field that year including another Molinari hull set up by Jerry Lembke, Richard Berg's  IT79 "Mojave Max" and two Molinari hulls owned by Bob Nordskog, American Power Boat Association (APBA) President & publisher of Powerboat Magazine. In 1977 Art barrel-rolled "Loudmouse" escaping without serious injury at Walker Lake in Nevada. "You know that's the gamble you take...but when the engine starts and the flag drops, you don't think about it any more." Art says quietly.  The second ET80 "Sasquatch" (the indian name for the creature known as Big Foot in the Northwestern United States) was painstakingly built by hand in Loveland, Colorado, the same year. Meanwhile Art traveled with Russ Romer down to Miami, Florida, to co-drive GN742 owned by Rich Marshall and sponsored by Ceasars Palace out of Las Vegas in the 1978 Mike Gordon "100" held at Miami's Marine Stadium.  Art and his wife Shelley campaigned Sasquatch every year, competing from Miami to San Francisco to San Diego and Idaho to Arizona until in 1986's Parker Enduro his second ET boat was destroyed.  Total disaster this time...the boat's sponson riped off, what is left does a "360" & an "endo" then sinks in the Colorado River!  The crew manages to salvage the engine and fuel tank and Art goes to the Parker Hospital...do you think Art would quit?  No way!  This time the third ET80 (also named "Sasquatch") was laid up out of fiberglass (not wood) by Jerry & sons Mitch and Marty Lembke and the new 486 Chevy engine was prepared by Paul Pfaff.  In 1994 Art and his co-driver, Greg Foster, entered the 300 mile Parker Enduro.  Art's business at this time was The Hop Drive-in restaurant in Parker and it sponsored his ET80.  They got their money's worth in advertising as this boat, the Sasquatch, lived up to its monstrous moniker by destroying all the other boats in the field in a flawless performance.  The huge ET lumbered around the turns but more than made up for lost time on the long straightaways posting speeds exceeding 120 miles an hour.  ET80 dominated the field for the 1994 Overall 1st Place trophy. Sasquatch was sold to Tony Sultan in Minneappolis, Minnesota, who bought the boat sight unseen.  Art & Shelley delivered the impecably maintained & shrink wrapped raceboat right after an ice storm, towing it cross country in January of 1996. Mr. Sultan waited three more months before removing the shrink wrap and firing the engine. He said he was incredibly shocked at the power & immaculate condition of what he uncovered.  He thought he was purchasing a worn out vintage boat that would have to be restored.
Today, Art & Shelley live in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where they own and manage The Flamingo Motel (www.flamingomotelidaho.com). Lake Coeur d'Alene is two blocks away and they still manage to spend quality time on the water. Photo of Sasquatch.

Williams, Ronnie "Moe"
Hello, I am Ronald Williams daughter in law. aka Ronnie "Moe" Williams.  I am trying to find anyone who might have any information about Ronnie. I know that he worked for Quincy welding from 1949-1954, and raced hydro's. Please contact me if you have any info on him. I would really appreciate it! Melissa Williams

Wilson, Steve
Only drove for a couple of years while I was in high school. Drove a Lipinski runabout. Also tested a hydro for Hap Mulvany, back in Minneapolis. Reside in Los Angeles now.

Wilson, Wilbert
Wilbert was my Grandfather and was originally from Girard, Ohio. He raced outboards and inboards throughout Ohio and Indiana. His last hull was the Arnie Gray Miss Psy-Cho-Motion which held a 1964 NOA speed record of 91.623 mph. running on a nitromethane, alcohol, acetone blend. He passed away in 1986. Contact family.

Wolcott, Larry
I'm a Wisconsin transplant to the Denver are. I've got a killer D class hull with a Merc 58 "Full Jeweled Super Thunderbolt" and quick silver combo lower unit. I've decided to refurb the power head and do some running this coming summer. Does anyone have info regarding hydroplane clubs or events in Colorado?

Woodward, John
First raced a 280 hydro in late 1985 named E-4 KGAA 1460 Country Radio owned by Wil Muncey jr. Joined a team with my two older brothers in 1986 and raced a 280 named E-76 Country Stoves built by Ed Karelson. Flipped the boat in 1987 at Lake Tapps in Sumner, Wa. Rebuilt the boat with updated Karelson revisions and raced through 1989. Boat rebuilt in 2004 to run on the vintage circuit.

Ziegler, Chris
I raced JS-4 1962-1965 as a wood hull built by Otto Becker. In 1965 Bob Perri and I took the first mold from Jo Carol and we built mine first. Art King, Bob Perri, Bob Holsclaw, Dave Greenlaw, Jim Rucki, Bud Bender. Set many records in JS-4. Now own JS-6 record holding boat built 1960 by Joe Julian, Sr. Joe beat me in 62, 63, 64 with this boat. JS-6 I think is the first fiberglass Jersey Speed Skiff. most js are off first mold, JS-4.