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This boat was raced originally in local
regattas, 1955-1966. In 1956, registered as APBA M-2 F Service. In 1956,
it was powered by a Buick engine, and was driven from the rear of the boat.
Competing in the Nationals in Buffalo, almost won. However the motor (Buick)
fell apart, Bill Burgess (driver) & Harold Bauer, (who was the owner
at that time) decided to change the power to Ford 390 FE and make
hull adjustments. In 1959, added to the chine on both sides from the trip
back to increase the hull width at the transom. Knee braces were added
to all the stringers and original braces. Cavitation plate was built for
more running surface and stability and fins for tracking. Placement of
the engine moved to the rear and attached by a Borg Warner velvet drive
71C coupled to a Casalle V- Drive via a jack shaft. Prop shaft angles and
steering were changed. The seating arrangement was changed to two forward
cockpits driving from the cockpit forward of the engine. Bucket seats were
added. The entire hull was fiberglassed. We made prop changes and settled
on a two blade, Cary propeller. In 1961, won Buffalo Launch Club around
Grand Island Marathon 27 miles, in 22 minutes and 37 seconds. A local record.
For years, canvassed the boat, traveled thousands of miles from Buffalo
to Miami, FL, including Washington, DC, Elizabeth City, NC, Millville,
NJ, Rehovoth Beach, Norfolf, VA, Chestertown, MD, etc. It was definitely
a crowd pleaser. This boat today is owned and restored by Tom Frauenheim
who purchased it from the estate of Harold Bauer. The boat has been sitting
for many years (36) and needed extensive restoration. Bill Burgess had
the chance to drive this boat again at the Buffalo Launch Club Antique
Regatta, (2003). As boat racing goes, a part of history many involved will
never forget, especially people in Buffalo NY. A pioneer area in boat racing.
Riding mechanics were Fran Semenick &
Mike Thompson |
