My dad had the world record in top blown fuel hydro back in those days and I remember them saying they pulled chuck stearns, the boats name was
Citation and my dad was Rene' Andre' I wonder if this was it?
http://www.vintagehydroplanes.com/foley3.html
Bob Foley Photo Album Page 3
I watched Rene' Andre' at "Ski Land" many times in the 60's. Above is a link that has your Father pictured.