-
1) Bob Senior's Hydro Collector's Corner is a wonderful little newsletter that comes out by snail mail and costs
$3 per year, for 3 issues. He keeps Unlimited Hydroplane collectors in the loop with what is new, what is hot,
who is selling or buying. If you are a subscriber then you can advertise in it for free. There is history, news, and
lots of sources to go to if you want to learn about collecting boat racing memorabilia. Bob can be reached at
206-364-7432 or email him at Bob.senior@juno.com.
2) APBA Vintage Race Boat OBSESSION, see http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/Obsession8.htm. TINKER,
Jersey Speed Skiff update. See Dave Yeager at http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/Tinker.htm (Bill John)
------------------------------------
3) Seattle Outboard Association, PIT PREVIEWS; Ryan Johnson reported that he hopes to hold SOA's Novice
school on either March 18th or March 25th, and hopes to do that at the Hydroplane museum. He would like any
names and phone numbers of potential new racers so he can keep in contact with them and ensure they get to the
school. Ryan can be called at 425-235-5084. Ryans E-Mail: ryanjohnson@thunderboats.org. (John Paramore)
4) Chip Hanauer to speak on boat racing driving strategies, March 17, 7pm at the Hydro Museum, in Kent, WA.
-----------------------------------
5) See whats going on across the nation, not just in region 4 but other neighboring regions as well. For more info
see http://pinkpantherhydro.freehomepage.com/ Durward and Diane Wilson
6) Hope lots of folks show up (for the Bridge to Bridge Festival in Sacramento, California). Last year the
event was populated by many of the current style "Poker Run Boats" making some pretty impressive passes.
I think Hot Boat Magazine did a spot on the event one year. Keep up the good work. (GD) GD: Write
in and encourage the boat racing magazines to come and report on the event. They will if their public wants them
to. The more articles and photos done on boat racing, the stronger the support. Always support the media and
make them feel welcome at your events. I write for DRIVE Magazine and some of the events that I go to, in
order to do my stories, go out of their way to get me interviews. Other event promoters think of us as nuisances
and pests. But the free publicity we give to an organization or race is vital to their success. Since there are multiple
events to cover, here are some tips: 1) Have your members write in to the editor of the magazine and ask them to
come and cover their event. 2) Provide a source for the writers to plug in a laptop if you can. 3) Make sure that
water and snacks are available as the writers and photographers, when going after a story, never think to eat or
drink anything. 4) Have a Media Rep available to answer questions as to where the action is and who the drivers
and teams are. A Media Representative can prove valuable in leading the magazine writers and photographers
to the right place at the right moment. 5) Don't overlook the boat racing websites and E-zines. You want to have
a list of all the publications, their editors, writers and photographers, so that you can send them periodic updates
and schedules. 6) When they check in, give them their credentials and don't make them beg for them, or have to
run all over looking for "someone with authority" to okay their entrance. Magazines give you two or more pages
of texts and photos, so treat them like gold. 7) Encourage the boat racing businesses to take out Ads in the boat
racing magazines in the name of the organization and their own business, in order to let the magazines know that
you are willing to return the favor. For more information on a) promoting, b) televising, or c) encouraging spon-
sorship for your team or boat racing association, email me at the Boat Racers Newsletter for my articles.
------------------------------------
7) Hydro Fever collectibles meet, May 27, Hydro Museum, in Kent, WA. Dealer's tables only $25.
8) I appreciate your newsletter! Hopefully sometime we'll meet up and talk boat racing. We lived in Eagle Rock,
CA from 1947-1951. Even though I was a tot, (being born in 1944), I remember Mom and Dad taking us for
drives out to see "Signal Hill" in Long Beach. I don't remember them talking about "Marine Stadium" but they
probably weren't boat racing fans. Too bad. Maybe Bill Muncey and I would have been competitors. (Dick
Bowne) Readers: Anyone else remember the Marine Stadium races? Or Frankie Ramos/Cornelius, the
Promoter and Manager for many years at the facility?
------------------------------------
9) Nashville 2005 Hydro Race Souvenirs, posters, programs, lapel pins (tacks). Contact Bob.senior@juno.com.
10) Detroit River Regatta Association (DRRA) Regatta Review newsletter by Brian Reed. The Chrysler/Jeep Super-
stores APBA Gold Cup, July 14-16, 2006, Detroit, Michigan. Two-time Gold Cup winner Billy Schumacher
(1967, 1968) has purchased the U-8 which ran for a good number of years as the MISS LLUMAR WINDOW
FILM. He plans to change almost nothing. The shop, crew, driver, etc will remain the same and Bill Wurster
will stay on as an advisor. As recently as two seasons ago, Bill had talked about driving again and trying to be the
youngest and oldest driver to win the Gold Cup. But now he says he might not even take it for a ride. U-1 ELAM
PLUS will be driven by Dave Villwock. The boat is being rebuilt and improved for 2006. U-2 JIM HARVEY
MOTORSPORTS will be driven by J Michael Kelly. They are looking for a national sponsor at this time. U-3
COOPER RACING will be driven by Jimmy King. No new news but I expect to see them on the full circuit.
U-5/U-7 FORMULA BOATS will be driven by Mike Weber. U-6 OH BOY! OBERTO/MISS MADISON
will be driven by Steve David. The boat is being repaired after San Diego and improvements are being made.
U-8 owner is Bill Schumacher and the driver will be Jean Theoret. U-10 USA RACING PARTNERS will
be driven by Nate Brown. They have a new and larger boat shop at the Las Vegas Speedway and Nate Brown
is preparing the ex-BUDWEISER (T3) hull for 2006...no major changes to it. U-13 owner is Dave Bartush and
the driver will be Terry Troxell. The boat is in a new shop in Seattle and being greatly rebuilt. Owner Dave
Bartush reports that the hull was in far worse shape than expected, and about it holding together as well as it did
last year said "sometimes ignorance is bliss." Dave also says that the seat is Terry's for as long as he wants it.
---------------------------------------
11) Madison Hydroplane Heritage, by Fred Farley. 2nd edition, $29.95 postage included. A second book by
Farley is A Century of Gold Cup Racing, $24.95. See Ron Harsin at 8681 W. New Bethel Rd, Lexington,
Indiana 47138.
12) ...while a relative late comer to the Marine Stadium SCSC/APBA races I did compete there in 1959, my
first year in Hydroplane racing. My 266 and later 5 liter AQUA-HOLIC inboard hydro ran pretty much
every race held there until about 1971. Never heard about anyone other than Wally starting the NHRA
until now. Perhaps more info on this would be of interest. Mike Waters Mike: In the early days AAA ran
the sprint car races while the APBA ran the boats. Most of the racers did a little of everything, but one place that
a great number of racers did was run the dry lakes. Guys like Isky, Edelbrock, Weiand, Clay Smith and others
came from the hot rodding world, but they didn't stay there. All of them dabbled in the boats, sponsored them,
or worked on the engines. One of our BRR honoree's was Louie Unser. Another racer was Danny Oakes.
These guys knew what they were doing whether it was wheel or keel. Dad was asked by a number of organizations
to lead them, and finally choose to go into land drag racing. He took with him guys that he knew, who were into
everything in the early days, like Ak Miller, Carroll Shelby, Bob Gottlieb and Marvin Lee. Miller followed
my Dad as SCTA President. Gottlieb was the chief legal counsel for Hot Rod Magazine and Robert "Pete"
Petersen. Shelby needs no introduction in racing. Marvin Lee was a partner with Petersen in Hollywood Assoc-
iates, a PR firm, and a person who helped car clubs and NHRA form and conduct business. Marvin's son, and a
good friend of boat racing, is Larry Lee, the architect and artist. While the idea for an "association of car clubs"
was Dad's, he had lots of help from his friends, many of whom left the land and re-evolved as water racers. Tell
us more about the AQUA-HOLIC and the decade (1960's) many claim to be the Golden Age of boat racing.
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13) A very exciting new boat has been designed and will soon be on the market. Former IndyCar and boat race driver
Dick Simon is involved with the new PATRIOT race boat. (From Don Logay, 949-240-9500, and Don Kay at
Auto Sport Radio)
14) Ned Crimmin's hydroplane collection project now has 5 cabinets full of photos. If you need a photo of a boat
or driver from 1952-1980's, contact Ned at khabt114@att.net.
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15) Ross Wallach reports on the March 4-5 SCSC race at Lake Ming. For the complete story and race results send
your request to me for a copy or see www.scscracing.com.
16) Hydroplane Button Collector's Price Guide, by Ned Olsoe now available. 125 pages, 4500 entries, with full
descriptions and dimensions, only $20. Contact Ned at 425-747-8062.
--------------------------------------------
17) 2006 Bluewater Resort and Casino Spring Classic, April 21-22, 2006, SCSC boat races. Reservations call
888-243-3360 and ask for the 2006 BWRC Spring Classic to get the $79/night racer rate. Or contact Ross
Wallach, SCSC Commodore at 310-704-3243. Website info is at www.scscracing.com.
18) New DVD's on sale at the Hydroplane Museum; 1) the 1982 Hydro season, narrated by Chip Hanauer, 2) the
1974 Sand Point Gold Cup, 3) Decade of the 50's, 4) Decade of the 60's, 5) Decade of the 70's, and 6) Decade
of the 80's. They have over 40 other DVDs. Contact the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum at 206-764-9453.
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19) That's good news about the U-5 team buying the Bud hulls and support equipment. How many U's are go-
ing to race in 2006? Hopefully 12 or 13. Freddy Leland has that many tubs in his back yard! Dick Bowne
20) Boat Racers Reunion tie tack sets are no longer on the market except for those donated to the Wally Parks
NHRA Motorsports Museum, and a limited amount by Bob Senior at Bob.senior@juno.com.
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21) Unlimited Hydroplanes Encyclopedia, by Bob Burd. 450pp, photos, $75. Call Bob Burd at 425-432-0371.
22) Herin's Collectibles, hydroplane memorabilia newsletter and auction. Email to hydroherin@frontiernet.net.
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23) Really enjoy the newsletter. Say, can anyone confirm Jim McCormick's role with Harrah's Club in the 1968
Tri Cities Atomic Cup race? Did he drive? Thanks -- keep up the great work. Randy Mueller, Gig Harbor, WA.
Randy: If anyone knows, it would be Fred Farley and Bob Senior, and I know they will respond.
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*In Memoriam: Ron Bolton, SCSC member and K boat racer passed away last Saturday night, due to a heart
attack. The viewing is Monday, March 27 at All Souls Mortuary, 4400 Cherry Avenue, Long Beach from 3-8pm
and the service is Tuesday March 28 at the same place at 11am. Cards can be sent to Debbie and Kattie Boulton:
3693 Hackett Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90808. The Mortuary phone number is 562-424-8601. (Jo Ann Pfaff)
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1) Good morning, Thank you for your vintage coverage in your latest newsletter your hard work is very
much appreciated! Bill John Vintage Race Boat Shop 603-569-5824, http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com &
http://www.network54.com/Forum/15733...WSLETTER+%2328
Bill: I saw your column in Brian Reed's DRRA newsletter. Keep the history and heritage of boat racing alive.
2) I raced at Marine Stadium with two different hydro's, both in the 266 and later the 5 liter hydro class from
1959 until 1971, both hydro's were named Aqua-Holic. During that time I won Hi point Region 12 once,
Western Div. Champion twice, National Championship twice and when I quit I held the 5 liter record at
Marine stadium. I served on the board of directors for the Southern Calif. Speed Boat Club for a number of
years in various positions and was Commodore of SCSC in 70-71. Boat racing was a very special time in my
life. I enjoy reading on your site about what's happening in the boat racing world. Thanks much Richard.
Mike Waters Mike and the readers: Mike Waters has been landspeed racing very successfully with the SCTA,
and has served in many jobs. I asked him to let us know his background and he has. His partner is Dana Wilson.
------------------------------------------
3) Detroit River Regatta Association (DRRA) Regatta Review newsletter by Brian Reed. The Chrysler/Jeep Super-
stores APBA Gold Cup, July 14-16, 2006, Detroit, Michigan. U-21 owner is Kevin Aylesworth who may also
be the driver. The team is completely re-doing the U-25 they purchased from Ken Muscatel at the San Diego race
last year. They expect to run the entire circuit in 2006. U-99/U-100 owner is Fred Leland. No new news. It looks
like there will be 11 boats on the circuit this year - maybe more. It appears that the competition will be very close
and top-notch! On March 4, at the ABRA Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet held in Indianapolis, the DRRA
was acknowledged with a Special Contribution Award for its contributions to the sport of unlimited hydroplane racing
and the Chrysler-Jeep Superstores were acknowledged as Race Site Sponsors of the year. In accepting the award
for the Superstore dealers, DRRA's Joe Schulte said: "Jim Schebil, Mark Snethkamp, Mike and Jim Riehl...
all of the Chrysler-Jeep dealers are much more than sponsors to us in Detroit... they are partners in every sense of
the word. Because of their support the great tradition of the Gold Cup lives on. We could not do it without them."
When presented with the Special Contribution Award by Sam Cole, Chairman of the ABRA, Joe observed that
without the dedication and hard work of the eight team owners who made the Unlimited Series such a success in
2005, awards such as this wouldn't be possible. "Looking ahead, we know that 2006 will be even more exciting."
4) Ken Warby, the Fastest Man on Water, 317.60 MPH, http://www.kenwarby.com/pre_intro1.htm. (Bill John)
------------------------------------------
5) Just double-checking, but the last that I heard was that there would not be a Boat Racer's Reunion this
year at the Pomona boat show, right? Let me know. Thanks, Matt Meeker, Operations & Marketing Co-
ordinator, Southern California Marine Association. Matt: I was asked by a dissident, small group to leave
the reunion. They controlled most of the boats and they wanted to do things in a new way. To stay would have
created a feud, and boat racing has enough feuds. The last thing that I heard was that they want to do a small re-
union at Irvine Lake in 2007. They did not want my email and U.S. postal lists, stating that an open invitation to
the event probably will not be allowed. They want NDBA/SCSC racers from the 50's and 60's to attend. Those
that received an invitation from me in the past may or may not receive an invitation in 2007, if there actually is a
reunion at all. I have my own Boat Racers Newsletter but it is not affiliated in any way with this dissident group
and they have not sent me any information as to their intentions. Your group's support has meant the difference
between success and failure and we cannot thank you enough for your support and help. If the new group does
not ask you for help in the future, then that will be a grave error. Our thanks go to everyone at the SCMA, a
very professional and great group of people.
6) Dave Yeager's TINKER, a Jersey Speed Skiff, see http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/Tinker.htm.
-------------------------------------------
7) Hello Richard, Thanks for the quick response. I do have Bob Burd's book, and it is a great resource. But,
no info on this particular race. Thanks again -- Randy Mueller, Gig Harbor, WA matt42mtq@comcast.net
Randy: I'll refer this to two very well versed historians, Bob Senior and Fred Farley.
8) Long Beach Marine Stadium & Frankie Cornelius...Remember?...A YUP! We had the fastest UBFH and
BGH runs ever made there from '67 thru '70, both APBA/UIM & NDBA records. We ran with Gary "the
finger" Gabelich, Murphy, Edhe, Gleason, Jack Bradley etc. Bob Garner hadn't even built his hydro yet.
I think Del Mascino and his turbo machine was the first to outrun our blown rig. But I'm also not sure what
I had for breakfast. Mike Waters and the AQUA-HOLIC's (266)...Remember them WELL. Fast machines
and well driven. Got any pictures? It WAS the GOLDEN AGE OF RACIN (boat/car/ drag racin - roundy
round {sprintcars-midgets}) whatever. To Steal a phrase from Don Ewald "WE DID IT FOR LOVE"! (Don
Rudy) Don: Thanks for the memories. Anyone have pictures? If so, we'll send your email on to Don and others.
-------------------------------------------
9) Where was Long Beach Marine Stadium located as it was referred to in this newsletter? Do you know if
the old NDBA held their nationals there? I remember going to the boat drags in Long Beach, but I remem-
ber the lake as being more in a residential area. Jim Dawson Jim: Long Beach Marine Stadium was built
near Los Alamitos Landing and Long Beach Harbor, for the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics as a rowing venue. May
be some of the boat racers can tell you what was the earliest boat race at the site. In 1949 I remember that there
where homes on one side and oil derricks on the other. It isn't a lake but a channel to the sea. Danny Oakes and
Bud Meyer told me they raced there in the mid-30's.
------------------------------------------
10) The Eileen Crimmin project is called, THE HYDROPLANE HISTORICAL RESEARCH DATA BASE. It is
everything that my mother saved, plus other donated material that have amounted to another 60 pounds of clippings
and scrapbooks. Eileen left me five cabinets full of material, including cutlines for photos, draft articles (that include
all photos sent in, not the ones just used) final articles, sections of Hot Boat Powerboat, Speed and Spray, and
Boating Magazine. (Ned Crimmin, archivist)
11) As to the question about Jim McCormick's role with the U-3 HARRAH'S CLUB in 1968: Burnet Bartley
drove the newly repowered (Griffon) pickleforked HARRAH'S CLUB for the first three races of 1968. His
performances were less than stellar. McCormick ran the first three races of the year in Bob Fendler's
SUPER SKATE BOARD ATLAS VAN LINES. From the fourth race on, McCormick sat in the seat of
HARRAH'S CLUB. In the two weeks between the Tri-Cities Atomic Cup and the Seafair Worlds Cham-
pionship, the picklefork of the HARRAH'S CLUB was filled in-back to so that it was only a couple inches
deep. The added lift provided a much better ride for McCormick. I believe the best finish of the year was
a third and a couple of fourth's. Brad Haskin, Seattle, WA Brad: Thank you for the update.
------------------------------------------
12) APRIL 2006, SOA (Seattle Outboard Association) PIT PREVIEWS Newsletter. Dave Anderson says that
there will be a 2007 Stock Nationals Planning Meeting held at 7:30 p.m., 4 April at Kirkland Eagles, 258 Central
Way, Kirkland, WA. Here are the classes selected to run at the Inboard Lawrence Lake regatta on May 13/14:
A-Stock Hydro, C-Stock Hydro, 20ss Hydro, D-Stock Hydro, D-Mod Hydro, Formula-E Hydro. The race
will be on a 1.67 mile, surveyed records course. Bridgeport this year promises to be a bigger event, and will include
all OPC classes, AOF racers out of Spokane and PRO 500 Sprint Hydro. (John Paramore)
------------------------------------------
13) It is very difficult to get info on the scheduling test dates for the restored unlimited hydroplanes. Usually
they do something in April each year, but nothing on their website. Also several restorations in some stage
of restoration have been publicized recent years, but then the momentum (and funding?) seems to get bogged
down and you don't hear anything for months or years: A. MISS BARDAHL '62-'65 hull. Will it be tested and
run on Lake Washington this Spring? It looked absolutely stunning at the Museum of Flight display! B. MISS
BARDAHL '59-'61. What happened to running this one on a regular basis? This one's a real draw for me,
but it seems to have now disappeared from the restoration's active circuit. C. MISS THRIFTWAY 1950's
mahogany version. Nothing heard in a long time. D. THRIFTWAY TOO. Same. E. MISS SPOKANE, the
"Lilac Lady" there was a local Spokane group restoring this hull a few years back, but it seems to have dis-
appeared off the radar. F. Any chance of a MISS WAHOO or MISS EXIDE restoration, using a similar hull
like HAWAII KAI's restoration used a similar hull? Mira Slovak & Bill Brow made these hydros famous.
Whatever happened to Milo & Glen Stoen, the owners of MISS EXIDE--what a cool name, design and color
scheme. Good old days I guess. G. HAWAII KAI restoration running at SeaFair without it's full engine
cowling is sacrilege, and just loses some of the impact of recalling its heyday. It's tantamount to running
without a tail fin. It just doesn't fit. But these museum guys work so hard to coax the old hydros to life, it's
hard to sit back and criticize, and I know their zest for realism. H. Another one that seems to have dis-
appeared after some terrific appearances is the restored SLO MO V. The IV was run several years ago to
open the SeaFair Race, and I understand has been relegated to permanent display at it's old home the
Museum of History & Industry, but why has the V gone away and hid? Thnx to any & all who can shed a
little light on these dilemmas! -Ron Suttell
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14) In response to the question about Jim McCormick's role with HARRAH'S CLUB at the 1968 Tri-Cities
Atomic Cup, here's the story. Mira Slovak was scheduled to drive HARRAH'S CLUB in 1968 but was
seriously injured in a plane crash a week before the start of the season. Burnett Bartley replaced him at
the first three races: Guntersville (Alabama), Madison (Wisconsin), and Madison (Indiana). Bartley
achieved mediocre results and was fired. Jim McCormick replaced him for the rest of 1968, starting with
the Tri-Cities race. McCormick had driven the first three races of 1968 with the U-35 "Skateboard"
ATLAS VAN LINES. Jim's contract with the U-35 only covered the first half of the season. He was then
free to accept the HARRAH'S CLUB assignment. Jim won the Semi-feature Heat that year at the Tri-Cities
with HARRAH'S CLUB. Fred Farley - ABRA Unlimited Historian
---------------------------------------------
-
The editor apologizes for the length of this issue. There was a lot of news this week that couldn't be condensed.
**************************************
1) Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Seattle. See: http://www.thunderboats.org/ (Bill John)
2) APRIL 2006, SOA (Seattle Outboard Association) PIT PREVIEWS Newsletter. Ryan Johnson reported that
Mod has returned to the old points system, and that there additional changes presented to mod racers on a mail
ballot. Steve Greaves reported that highlights from the PRO commission meeting at Ft Lauderdale will be appear-
ing shortly in Propeller. Steve also told us that as with Mod, PRO will be sending out ballots to members, and one
of the ballot items will be a choice to return to the APBA "legacy" starting procedure, where the first legal boat over
the line starts race timing. (John Paramore)
-----------------------------------------
3) The WPBA 1928 season is recorded at http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/R...story-1928.htm
4) The Eileen Crimmin project is called, The Hydroplane Historical Research Data Base Project. There is
correspondence from Schleeh, Muncey, McDonald, Little, Manchester, and others. There are Christmas
Cards. This project covers the years 1950 into the early 1970's. This data base is by specific driver (Musson,
Fanning, Muncey, Alter, etal), owners (Rhodes, Simons, McDonald, Schoenith, Swenson, etal), hydros
(U-40 series, U-60 series, U-24, U-55 series, the different U-7's, U-8's, U-4's, etc.). (Ned Crimmin, archivist)
----------------------------------------
5) I am sorry to hear that the event will not take place this year. Thank you for your efforts over the past
few years and let us know if the Boat Racers Reunion is ever interested in holding their event at the Spring
Boat Show if you are ever involved with it again. Sincerely, Matt Meeker SCMA Show Coordinator
Matt: Thank you for all that you have done for us. The SCMA has gone out of its way to support the boating
community over the years. Your support has been extremely important to our success. I heard that the Cracker
Box Club was interested in holding a boat reunion and if they contact me I will certainly ask them to consider the
Spring Boat Show at the Los Angeles County Fairplex, in June, at Pomona, CA. It is a quality show.
6) March 18-19, Annual Maine Boatbuilders Show in Portland, Maine, finest Eastern custom boatbuilders. See
http://www.portlandcompany.com/2006%...ex2006MBBS.htm. I have owned my Gar
Wood Speedster for 27 years, link for photos: http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/Obsession8.htm. (Bill John)
-----------------------------------------
7) Yep, that's my dilemma, I remember these races at a lake in a neighborhood. Jim Dawson Jim: Marine
Stadium was a channel that flowed out to the sea near Pacific Coast Highway, bordering Seal Beach, Los Alamitos
and South Long Beach. The sides are formed of granite boulders making a jetty and I think that it is about 300 feet
across which made circle boat racing treacherous. I never saw a boat go up onto the rocks, but I've heard a lot of
stories from boat racers that they did crash on the rocks from time to time. Frankie Ramos Cornelius was the
long time manager of Marine Stadium. She was married to boatbuilder Rudy Ramos, one of our 2003 Honorees.
It's possible that the NDBA also raced on a lake in the area. They raced at San Dieguitos Lagoon, Ski Land, Lake
Ming, Lake Irvine, Puddingtone Lake among other places. NDBA'ers, what other places did you race at?
8) APBA Vintage Race Boat Circuit see: http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/A...ageCircuit.htm
----------------------------------------
9) Mary "Kit" Muncey-McIntosh Remembered, by Fred Farley - ABRA Unlimited Historian. Contact Fred
at fredf44@hotmail.com for his articles on Kit, who passed away on February 14, 2006, was the first wife of boat
racing great Bill Muncey.
10) Detroit River Regatta Association (DRRA) Regatta Review newsletter by Brian Reed. The Chrysler/Jeep Super-
stores APBA Gold Cup, July 14-16, 2006, Detroit, Michigan. The 2005 recipient of the Bruce Broussard Merit-
orious Service Award is Terry Troxell. This award is based on a points sytem for active membership in APBA
and service at the club, regional, and national levels. Over his 35 years as a member of APBA, Terry Troxell has
been active on all levels of APBA service. On the national level, he has served the Inboard category as a Com-
missioner as well as a member of the Board of Governors. On the local level, he has been a club officer for
Tacoma Inboard Racing Club; also, he has served as a Race Chaiman as well as a Race Official. In Region 10, he
has also served as a Region Officer and a Race Official. Terry, a Hall of Champions inductee, has distinguished
himself as a leader for APBA on the race course as well. Prior to racing Unlimited hydroplanes, he was a serious
and successful competitor in many inboard racing classes. He is probably best known for his success with the
Stinger Racing team, owned by Bob Schultz; Terry won many national, divisional and region titles. Terry reached
the pinnacle of our sport when he won the APBA Gold Cup in Detroit in 2005. See the ABRA site for lots more
info about last weekend's meetings and banquet in Indianapolis. There are also 6 great interviews with the likes of
Bill Schumacher and Steve David. See http://www.abrahydroplanes.com.
-----------------------------------------
11) Last summer's vintage regattas at Buffalo and Wolfeboro. See http://www.vintagehydroplanes.com/blcdvds.html
Bill (I love this stuff!!!) John, Vintage Race Boat Shop, 603-569-5824 http://www.VintageRaceBoatShop.com
12) THE UNLIMITEDS: 2005 IN REVIEW, By Fred Farley, ABRA Unlimited Historian. Fred Farley sent in a
review of the racing season's highlights for 2005 in the Unlimited Hydroplanes. He discusses the highlights and low
lights of the season in a gripping and interesting fashion. If you want this article, contact Fred and request a copy.
He can be reached at fredf44@hotmail.com.
-----------------------------------------
13) Bill John sent in the following concerning the first boat race in Massachusetts which was documented to be in
1652, see: http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/R...EarlyYears.htm
14) Aloha; Thanks for the news. I really appreciate you doing that. Carl Thornhill Readers: Carl Thornhill
is one of the Boat Racers Reunion Honorees. He built his own boats and raced them. He now resides in Hawaii.
-----------------------------------------
15) Bakersfield had a great turnout of Nostalgia boats, in fact all boats for that matter. I was out in the
Patrol boat. The Nostalgia Jet class made their debut at Bakersfield, and even though they only had 3
boats, they looked good, and have a strong potential for class growth. If anybody knows of any drivers
possibly interested in competeting in this class contact me at jrpm@npgcable.com. I will be attending the
SCSC meeting this coming Wednesday, March 29th, and they will be asking me for a boat count for Parker
this April, so please reply with your name, class(es), and days racing. As always, anybody can attend these
meetings, but if you can not, and would like me to forward any questions and/or concerns please let me
know, and I will be happy to do so. A few of our drivers have decided to play a little with the "Big Dogs."
Jim Best and Bart Cromwell raced in the GN class, and Shane Hall and Dave Chandler raced in the Pro
Stock class at Bakersfield. All did very well, and showed everybody that even though the Nostalgia guys
are limited in speed, we ain't limited in talent! I will have the official Nostalgia points results from Bakers-
field for you all soon. (Jim Rich)
------------------------------------------
16) For Ron Suttell, from Steve Compton: The Museum does not have any fixed schedule for testing any of
the hulls. The cost for a 2-3 hour session on Lake Washington is approx $7000 (fuel, insurance, permits,
rescue boats and personnel, crane, etc). The Museum has numerous expenses, and needs to limit them to
committed events. This year the ONLY firm commitments are the Gold Cup in Detroit and Tri-Cities. The
DRRA has slotted time (and money) for the Museum to bring the 82 ATLAS and 80 BUD back to run a
demonstration. As for the other Vintage hulls: 62 BARDAHL-Dixon is still finishing up the Merlin and hopes he
can run her this year. 59 BARDAHL-There is no crew working on her and no funds to get her ready. She
needs some TLC before she could be launched again. 55 THRIFTWAY-follow the weekly updated progress
at www.missthriftway.com. 57 THRIFTWAY TOO-see the WWW.missthriftway.com website. 56 WAHOO-
Rumor has it that Bill Boeing Jr is trying to put something together, BUT
if that does not happen, Alan
McDonough is working with the Thriftway group and plans to construct either a WAHOO or SHANTY
replica as soon as the THRIFTWAY project wraps up. 58 MISS SPOKANE-still living in Spokane. Since
this is one of the 4 sister ships (THRIFTWAY, WAHOO, SPOKANE, SHANTY), it is rumored that Boeing Jrs
group is trying to get it to turn into the WAHOO. 63 EXIDE-Since this hull only ran in 2 races before it was
destroyed, I assume youre referring to the WAHOO hull that ran as the EXIDE. I have not heard any talk
of an EXIDE hull (maybe Alans?). Both the Stoen brothers have passed on. 57 HAWAII KAI cowling- Do
you know where it is? 51 SLO MO V-I was one of the fortunate ones who crewed the V back in Detroit
in 2004. The Museum was asked to bring her back and we did a couple of demonstration runs. Unfortun-
ately, as happens with 60 year old equipment, the engine went away (cracked cylinder) before race day and
we were not able to do much except take a bunch of pictures of fans sitting in the hull. The engine still needs
to be re-built. Its still down at the Museum on display (WITH the cowling attached!). Seafair, Inc. does a
fantastic job of putting on the event each year. The one thing they do, however, is shun the Museum. David
Williams is in constant contact with Seafair, and is continually negotiating so we can run the boats. The
response in past years has been, you guys are not the show. Seafair feels they can run the event success-
fully without the Vintage Unlimiteds. Im sure thats true. BUT
its these vintage boats that created Sea-
fair, and it seems that some respect should be paid to them each and every time Seafair happens! Sure,
Seafair is now being run by business oriented imports (non Washingtonians), who need to show others that
they know what they are doing to raise money. They dont have the memories of the old boats, the noise,
the smoke, the spray, the open cockpits, etc
they know the hair-driers (turbines) and the BUD (the RED
one). Seattle has grown up, and a lot of people seem to think the hydro race is a thing of the past, but if
you disagree, you need to let the folks at Seafair know about your disappointment in not seeing the old
boats. Steve Compton
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17) Great newsletter as usual! Contact the Hydroplane & Raceboat Museum, Seattle, to confirm testing
dates for the restored unlimiteds. The Museum's phone number is 206-764-9453. David Williams, our
Executive Director is in on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Our website is www.thunderboats.org.
(Dick Bowne)
18) Hi everyone. I was writing a note to all us old types who knew and dealt with ol' Mad Dog (Ron Bolton).
WHAT A GUY, I always had second thoughts about calling him on any violations, he seemed like the kind
of guy who would carry the whole darn boat over to the judges stand and give me hell, but in fact he was
a real nice guy and one hell of a driver. I will miss him and his intensity at the races. He was another true
character of our K boat history, may he rest in peace. Jim Codling Jim: I never had the chance to meet
Bolton, but I did talk to him on the phone. If he thought you were wasting his time he hung up, but if he thought you
were seriously interested, then you had his attention.
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19) "I'm not a boat racer." (name kept confidential) If you would like to have me remove your name from the
newsletter lists, just let me know. Boat racing fans send me email addresses of their friends and teammates and
sometimes err in just whom they think will enjoy the newsletter. If it is bothersome, just let me know and I will
delete your name and apologize for the inconvenience...editor
20) I would like to thank Richard for all the information and time that goes into the news letter. Secondly
I was wondering who is the "I" under the item #2? of the #30 news letter? I, "me", am wondering if you
ran against Johnny White in the BLACK MAGIC"? I have one of Bob Conn's fiberglass copies of Johnny's
wooden BLACK MAGIC, which was an International hull. The international was a copy of the Lauterbach
hull. My Boat is the Fiberglass BLACK MAGIC. A second hull, MISS MIAMI, is in the state of Washington
and owned by Mr. Bonnet. I have a picture of a BLACK MAGIC at the Marine Stadium but do not know
if it is the wood version or fiberglass. If you have any information on my boat, I would appreciate hearing
from you! Thanks, Jim Thompson "BLACK MAGIC" 215-643-1706 jwtbnt@hotmail.com Jim: The
person who wrote the letter was Mike Waters.
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21) I agree, Freds (Farley) insistence in capitalizing the names of the boats is a GREAT one, and a habit I
think Ill adopt also. Thank you for the kind words. I know its a long shot to get Seafair to change their
mind, but who knows, maybe, just maybe, if enough people let them know the vintage boats ARE important
to them, and they are really enjoyed during race day, Seafair might not give David the brush off and offer
him a spot in Genesee Park to display the boats rather than a pit slot where they can be launched and run.
By the way, I spoke to Dixon today at the Antique and Classic Boat Society Garage tour at Ike Kielgass'
and he told me that he is hoping to get the 62 Bardahl launched this Spring. He still needs to finish the
Merlin and tie up some loose ends, but he indicated they are verrry minor. If you could modify my reply to
read: 62 BARDAHL-Dixon is still finishing up the Merlin and hopes he can run her this year. Thanks! Steve
Compton Steve: the change was made.
22) Folks think we can just throw these things (vintage old racing boats) in the water and they'll run like
they used to. You and I know that's not so. We pamper these old gals and treat them very gently. Keep
up the great work. (Dick Bowne)
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23) ...thank you for letting us know about the passing of Ron Bolton. Again, thanks for the work you do for
us ALL! Hope to see you soon-Michael Doll "Lap Dance #707" Michael: send me the racing schedule for
the Jet Boat (NJBA) group so that I can publish it. Some of the nicest and hardest working guys I've met run
those Jets, and those exciting Cracker Boxes.
24) Fred Farley has written another one of his unparalleled artices, WELCOME BACK, BILLY SCHUMACHER!
Farley is the ABRA Unlimited Historian, and his writing style is clear and focused and you can see the hours upon
hours of research that he devotes in order to tell the history and story of Unlimited Hydroplane racing. For a copy,
contact Fred at fredf44@hotmail.com and request your copy.
----------------------------------------------------
-
1) Newsletter #31, comment #7 sent me back to LBMS (Long Beach Marine Stadium) AGAIN. MANY boats
wound up on the rocks (pit/tower side) & the beach (tote board) side. The tote board was the state of the
art digital (light bulb) scoring board mounted on top of the restrooms on the east (oil well) side. How 'bout
a Rayson-Craft SK in a pickup bed just off the north turn. You also had to dodge the occasional "flying
fish" thrown up with the roostertails. Both witnessed by my own self on more than one occasion. Also add
Carlsbad to your list of boat race sites. The locals didn't like it there either. (Don Rudy) Don: The local
residents didn't like the boat racers, or the boat racers didn't like Carlsbad Lagoon?
2) 1926 Irwin Cup on Lake Winnipesaukee was started by James R. Irwin, according to Bill John. See the
following article at http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/R...story-1926.htm
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3) APRIL 2006, SOA (Seattle Outboard Association) PIT PREVIEWS Newsletter.
April 29/30, Columbia River, Bridgeport, WA May 13/14, Inboard Lawrence Lake,
May 20/21, Kitsap Lake, Bremerton, WA May 27/28/29, Willamette River, Newberg, OR,
June 10, Silver Lake, Everett, WA June 24/25, Cullaby Lake, Astoria, OR,
July 8/9, Scooteney Reservoir, Connell, WA July 21/22/23, Capitol Lake, Olympia, WA,
August 19/20, Silver Lake, Eatonville, WA September 2/3/4, Warden Lake, Warden, WA,
September 8/9/10, Lawrence Lake, Yelm, WA September 30/October 1, Moses Lake, Moses Lake WA,
October 14, D-Lake Kilos Lincoln City, OR (John Paramore)
4) The Winnipesaukee Power Boat Association (WPBA) was started in January, 1927. Bill John sends in the
following story at http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/R...story-1927.htm
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5) The Eileen Crimmin project is called, The Hydroplane Historical Research Data Base Project. It has
races (Gold Cups, Seafair's, Detroit Memorial's, President's Cups, Harmsworth's, Mapes Mile High, Sahara Cup,
and much more of whatever year is available). It also includes ANY Limited material listed by classes, drivers,
limited articles, by writters (Zimmerman, Harrison, Fageol, Farley, Knight, Dowdal, LeDuc, etc). A lot of
the information is on DVD-R in Slo mo, 52 test run with a bit of the 1952 Gold Cup, and the 1959 Launching of
U-60 at the Jones' home and the 1959 Gold Cup. (Ned Crimmin, archivist)
6) Where was Ski Land located? Jim Dawson Jim: Somewhere in Riverside County on the way to Perris
Auto Speedway, off Van Buren Street as close as I can remember. Maybe the old NDBA guys will write back
and let you know. The drag boat guys loved it because it was shallow. It was an irrigation ditch that they dredged
wider and deeper and filled with water. They ran some good times there but it cost them a lot of money to keep
refilling the channel with irrigation water, which wasn't lined to keep the water from draining away.
-----------------------------------------
7) Larry Zubrick passed away on March 15. Larry was involved with Drag Boats and Drag Racing not to
mention working with Hot Rod Clubs in Southern California. He was a budding California artist in the
1960s. Larry became well known throughout the southwest for his vibrant t-shirt illustrations, especially in
the world of boat and drag racing. He designed the original California Surf Shirt and in 1985 opened
Zubrick T-Shirts. (Pattie Frost)
8) Thanks for the great job you do. Glen Stoen died within the past 60 days here in Seattle. One day I will
send you the history of LIL 'SQUIRT. Thanks again, Bryce McDonald
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9) NJBA (National Jet Boat Association) RACE SCHEDULE; All race dates are at Lake Ming in Bakersfield,
CA-April 22-23, June 24-25, Sept 16-17, Oct 21-22, Nov 18-19. IHBA RACE SCHEDULE-Phoenix/
Firebird, AZ April 29-30, and Red Bluff, CA, May 27-28. (Michael Doll, LAP DANCE #707)
10) Aloha All; Don't forget that my e-mail address changes on the 1st. Remember to change your address
books. Carl & Dottie Thornhill Carl and Dottie: Thank you for the update. A reminder to everyone, when
you change your email address be sure to inform the editor at the newsletter.
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11) Thanks for your informative news letter! I used to race in the NDBA in the 1970's; also raced at
Oakland Marine Stadium, Firebird, Turlock, and Red Bluff to name a few. Keep up the good work.
Mike Stevens "BLOOD, SWEAT AND NITRO."
12) My son occasionally goes up to a lodge on a lake near or on Ross lake, which he has to travel to by a cat-
amaran. This catamaran is the one Ron Jones made and I built for him in the 50's. The owner of the lodge
is very interested in getting the blueprints of catamaran and expressed a willingness to pay for a copy of
them. Would anyone know if they are still in existance. Thanks, Mel Vanden Berg vandenberg@crosspaths.net
Readers: Does anyone know where the plans for the catamaran may be?
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13) ...take me off your list... I'm not a boatracer. GF GF: Done.
14) Bridge to Bridge, July 21-23, Old Town Sacramento, will feature classic jets and v-drives on display and
showing their stuff on the water. Drag boat demos will thunder and nostalgia racing will run its course in
front of 30,000 spectators. A new format of parallel "water course racing" will thrill both participants and
spectators alike. Contact Chris Ayres at www.pokerrunswest.com, chrisayres@sbcglobal.net or call 916-
652-7022. (Chris Ayres)
-
Editor's notes: If you want to be removed from the list, please let me know. The newsletter is voluntary and the
sources come from the boat racing community. We take no ads, but will run your news, current, or nostalgic. The
intent is to keep the boat racing community up to date about topics not normally discussed in magazines, websites
or newspapers. All notices are reported. Please keep them as short as you can. Thank you.
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1) Regarding Mike Stevens BLOOD, SWEAT and NITRO, that boat hauled some serious butt!!! Hey Mike,
where are Varian and Deaver these days. Any knowledge/guess? Last time I heard Varian was still in the
paint business up in Washington State. No clue on Gene. I'm probably not the only one that would like to
know where he is. Don Rudy (COLOR ME GONE #1, #2, #3 and #4) Don: when I was with the Boat Racers
Reunion I was also trying to find Deaver. He received a lot of votes for the Honorary Awards Program but never
made it to the top three. He would have though. A lot of racers deserved recognition and we honored 93 people
in the 3 years that we gave out our awards.
2) Ken Warby, the Fastest Man on Water at 317.60 MPH is at http://www.kenwarby.com/pre_intro1.htm. (Bill John)
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3) Just a note to say hi and tell you what a great job you are doing and how much Bud enjoys your news-
letters. Joan Denver/Meyer Readers: Bud Meyer was honored as an engine builder at the 2006 Boat Racers
Reunion. He is a master boat and car mechanic and engine builder and the nephew of Indy 500 great Louie Meyer.
Joan Denver was a long time sponsor and supporter of the Boat Racers Reunion from 2000-2006.
4) See http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/Tinker.htm for Dave Yeager's TINKER, a Jersey Speed Skiff being
built for Bob Mueller is at (Bill John)
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5) Hi, wanted to let you know that David Sowins passed away on Saturday, April 1, 2006. He and his wife,
Ellen, were living in Astoria, Oregon. Dave was in a home after a stroke a few years back. Dave attended
schools in Los Angeles, California. He was a Los Angeles City firefighter for 26 years and also was a partner
in the high performance engine business with Paul Pfaff. It was Pfaff & Sowins in Torrance, California. He
was one of the founding members of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). A memorial will be held
later in Los Angeles. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Clatsop Care Center in
care of Hughes/Ransom Cremation and Mortuaries, 576 12th Street, Astoria, Oregon, 97103, or the Los
Angeles City Fire Department Widows and Orphans Fund. Paul Pfaff Readers: Paul Pfaff was honored
by the Boat Racers Reunion for his work in engine building for the boat racing community.
6) The Vintage Race Boat OBSESSION with photos is at http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/Obsession8.htm.
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7) APRIL 2006, SOA (Seattle Outboard Association) PIT PREVIEWS Newsletter. Scooteney Reservoir, and
Warden Lake are in roughly, the same area. Warden Lake is between Othello and Moses Lake, just East of
Potholes Reservoir, off Hwy 17. Because of water control Safety, and Security issues at Scooteney, there is a
strong possibility that the race may shift to Warden Lake, which is Private and more secure and may move to the
labor day weekend. Dick Rautenberg told members that Jan Shaw has the paperwork set up for on-line sub-
mission. Bridgeport this year promises to be a bigger event, and will include all OPC classes, AOF racers out of
Spokane and PRO 500 Sprint Hydro. He expects a great event. (John Paramore)
8) APBA Vintage Race Boat Circuit regattas are at http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/A...ageCircuit.htm.
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9) The Hydroplane Historical Research Data Base Project is almost done. There is a section called, "Tributes
and Dedications to Bob Carver and Eileen Crimmin." I have received tributes from Fred Farley, Bill Schum-
acher, Ron Jones Sr, Chuck Lyford, Jerry Schoneith, Dave Williams, and others. Please send your tribute
to me. I need these items as soon as possible to keep on schedule for the debut of this data base at Hydro Fever
on May 27. At present the data base covers the years from 1950 thru the early 70's, and is crossed referenced by
races, drivers, owners, crew members, hydros, writers, runabouts, offshore, enduro, drags and much more. You
can order the entire data base or just what you are interested in. The Project includes the work of Eileen Crimmin
and the new Keith Halva Memorial section. I have just recently received a huge photo collection. Whoever made
these books kept everything, even between races, and articles from out of area races. A wonderful addition to my
mother's material. I will also be receiving some Harmsworth material. Email Ned Crimmin at khabt114@att.net
10) See the Lake George events at http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/LakeGeorge-2006.htm. (Bill John)
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11) If any jetboaters would like to be in The Wall of Water, see www.banderlog.com. You must attend a
practice session before the day of the event. Sign in on Banderlog and you will be contacted. It was a huge
success last year. A big roostertail is a plus for this event. It is a correographed display of roostertails, thus,
The Wall of Water. There are pics of last years event on the website. (Jetman)
12) Vintage Newsletter, see http://www.vintageraceboatshop.com/A...ering-2006.htm, put
out by Bill John. A very interesting newsletter with photos of vintage boats and racing. (Bill John 603-569-5824)
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13) Your newsletter gets more interesting. I thought I might add a few shot's that may be of interest. The
Hispano Suiza V-12, 1850 C.I. is in for custom CNC Z-Drive and transmission and the engine in the back-
ground is a Liberty V-12 1650 C.I. which was just finished for the owners with the same type drive train.
Both going in 1920's and 30's restoration. The hull is a 1963 Rayson Craft that I built with a Ford Aluminum
1100 C.I. V-8 for the Salton Sea race and ran it in the Lake Berryessa marathon in 1964 (3rd place), and
Salton Sea race with twin Ford 427 MR Ford's coupled together in 1965. I Sold it in 1965 and just traded
a boat for it in March 2006. I will be restoring it soon. John Sofilos, Unlimited Marine, Clearlake, CA.
John: the photos that you sent are great. The boat, SO RARE, has a yellow bottom, and blue top trim. Will you
change the paint scheme? Editor's notes: John Sofilos sent in some old pictures of his 20' Rayson 1100 CI Tank,
to contact John to see the boat, email him at unlimar@mchsi.com. The original had a white bottom and red deck.
Very impressive engine.
14) ACBS Chapter http://www.necacbs.org/Calendar.htm (Bill John)
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15) BILL MUNCEY'S greatest season, by Fred Farley. For Fred's article on the late Bill Muncey, and to learn
more about this great hydroplane racer, contact Fred at fredf44@hotmail.com and request an emailed copy.
16) SCSC/APBA Racing in April at Parker. It is nice to know that the Nostalgia Class are being thought of by these
manufacturers. They are all stepping up with something for our race at Parker, Arizona, on April 22-23, 2006. We
will have a veriety of classes, including Nostalgia Flat, Nostalgia Endurance and Nostalgia Jet. There will be Pro
Stocks, SuperStocks, K-Boats, Crackerboxes and even some OBs and PWCs. Come out and enjoy the races at
the Bluewater Casino Resort. Some of the Nostalgia Racing classes sponsors are Aggressor Jet Drives, Hi-Tech
Performance, ARS Marine, and Triad Performance Marine. Triad is a distributor of Bully Dog, Get Real, MSD
Ignitions, Edge Propjet, IMCO, Gaffrig Performance, etal. (Jim Rich, jrpm@npgcable.com, 928-704-1858)
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