Volume 67, Issue 8 II August 2013 apba.org

SALUTING THE COLONEL PRO Racing's Most Prestigious Award

DEFYING THEDDDS

ving Junior Racing

TON ...

, MICHIGAN

USA: $5.00

84 YEARS YOUNG Frank Banducci Refuses to

Slow Down

o

UIM~\ UN O~ l~l·R"~J [~~Lf MOIONAUJIUUf

Saving Junior Racing i ()

Spotlight On ... Indian River, Michigan 0

e, DILLARD WINS IN KNOXVILLE

u.s. A·TEAM ~ <9

DEPARTMENTS

From The Editor

From The Top: APBA's Digital Transformation

This Date in History

You Make the Call

Rooster-Tales:

10

15

30

A Day at the Races through the Eyes of a Scorer

Inside the Cockpit: Amy Sweeney

Category Corner Modified Outboard

Tunnel

Racing Calendar

Scorer's Forum

In Pictures

Region Roundup Region 3 Region 10 J-larl UO In 11

I-ll....Iarllnn 15 ~CJr.,nn 16

YEARS

---ANDUCCI RE ...,...,LOlN DOWN

courtesy of Gloria Ooim Banducci

For 65 years Region 11 ou tboard driver Frank Banducci has seen it all. In 1948, the self-proclaimed "oldest fart on the water"

attended his first boat race with Jack Dempsey and Bobby Ziemer at Ellis Lake in Marysville, Calif. "J ack Dempsey was an engine builder and Bobby Ziemer was the driver. That was my first race and I was a member of the pit crew and I did that for about four years and occasionally I would get

the chance to take a ride in an F Racing Runabout," Banducci said. "That's the two-man side by side runabout that had a 460 hanging on it. After a marriage, the birth of his fi rst child and a several year hiatus Banducci, and his son Rocky, were ready to get on the water. "\iVhen my son was old enough, I couldn't wait to get him in a boat," Banducci said. Pitting for his son in the 20-SS/350 Hydro class Frank started to get the itch again. In 1979 after undiagnosed diabetes, at just 14 years-old, Rocky passed away. Devastated, Frank decided after spectating only for nearly 15 years, it was time to get back in the boat. Since then, Frank has been on a furious path of involvement; and he's loved every moment of it. "Frank just loves talking about the sport. He loves sharing experiences. He loves hearing about other people's experiences," Gloria Crim said. "He's always doing something to promote the sport and increase the numbers. He's like an ambassador for the sport. He is always trying to get people involved. Very often you will hear people say 'well go talk to that guy,' and they'll be pointing at Frank."

Doing all he can to help promote the sport of boat racing, Banducci has been the Region 11 chairman and Region 11 Vintage representative. Currently he is the commodore of the East Bay Boat Club, vice commodore of the Delta Boat Racing Association. He is a mentor to new racers and Sport C driver. He capsule trains drivers in his pool and he created two mentor programs to help get new drivers in boats. The J Birds program is for perspective Junior drivers to learn all about power boat racing from one of its best minds. Banducci goes over the rule book, explains the parts of the boat, shares his experiences and even lets them get a feel for the boat in his pool. Inviting veteran drivers to work with, again, perspective new drivers together for what Banducci calls "play days" so rookies and pick the brains of the veterans. \iVhen Banducci was a child he couldn't afford the equipment to race, which is one of the main reasons why he does all he can to help the young drivers "I have had a lot of fun and I get a lot of enjoyment by putting the kids in boats," Banducci said. "I have put them in J boats, A boat and the Yamato classes. Some people continue to race and some were only in it briefly but the thing that I believe stays with them is that camaraderie, that sportsmanship, that respect for the guy running next to him. "I see a lot of the good kids grow and that's a great joy to me." Not just helping people get into the sport, today at 84 years-young, Banducci continues to race and enjoy every moment of it without any regrets and no plans of slowing down. The one thing that eludes Banducci is the

Hall of Champions and a national championship. Never being able to own a brand new boat in his racing career, Banducci's grandson has worked it out with boat builder RJ \iVest to get Banducci behind the wheel of a brand new Sport C boat where he will race it at the OPC Nationals in Kankakee and hopefully win his first national championship. ''As long as I'm still fairly sharp and I have my wits about me, I will stay involved in boat racing, Banducci said. "I will help wherever I can help and I will keep putting kids in boats. The important thing is to get out there and run with the kids, it's just so enjoyable and every now and then I'll get a first place or a podium finish." At this point in his career Banducci wouldn't mind winning a national championship, getting into the Hall of Champions or being inducted into the Honor Squadron; but he won't let it bother him ifhe doesn't make it. "I am not going to get paranoid if I don't get all of that but those are goals to shoot for. I just have a great time racing for the sake of racing," Banducci said. "If the chips fall and I am ever capable or lucky enough to make the Hall of Champions that would be great. If I don't that's OK too. I'll go out there with the other guys and help them put on that exhibition for the spectators and that's what I'll do."

• w-_- PROPELLER ........... .. ...... .. ...... .. ...... .. ....... ........ ........ ................ .. ...... .. ...... .. ...... .. ....... ........ ........ ........ ........ .. ...... .. ...... .. .

/ /Photos by Gleason Racing Photography

As of May, 15th of this year, under 16 years-old had to have the state of Georgia passed somebody 18 years or older with a law stating that nobody them on the boat whether it was

under the age of 16 could pilot a personal water craft or a boat any sort of power boat, in turn of any kind," APBA member Herb essentially ending all APBA Junior Lanphear said. "It went into effect Class races in the state. either a month or two months "The new Georgia regulations were ago." aimed mostly toward personal According to the Georgia watercrafts. We have had a Department of Natural Resources, couple of deaths recently here at no child younger than 12 years-Lake Lanier and they were able old is legally allowed to operate to get some legislation pretty a personal water craft. Children quickly passed that said anybody between the ages of 12 and 15

may operate a personal water craft only if they have passed a boating safety course approved by the DNR or are accompanied by a competent adult. A personal watercraft, defined by Georgia DNR Corporal Brian Hobbins as, "Official Code of Georgia 52-7-8.2, basically it says here the

........ ........ ........ ...... ....... ... .. ...... .. ...... .. ...... .......... · ...... ........ .... .... .. .. PROPELLER

Personal water crafts, Class A

vessels, anything less than 16 feet

that has an outboard or inboard motor designed

with the concept that the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of the vessel as opposed to riding inside the vessel and has the probability that the operator and passenger may, in the normal course of use, fall ove rboa rd." Taking place in Evans, Ga., June 22 and 23 was the Wildwood Park Regatta. Originally planned to host the Stock Outboard, Modified Outboard, PRO and Junior Classes; as of four months ago, with the passage of this new law all Junior and some A-Stock drivers weren't allowed to race in

Georgia. After hearing of this new law that was passed Lanphear,

assistant referee for the race, thought that

the race would be ruined if children 16 years and younger wouldn't be allowed to participate. So he made some phone calls and worked with several people to

"The J Class is so very important to the futu.re of APBA Stock Outboard racing. I was a national champion in the J Class long ago a~d it ha~ a~

effect on me and the way I live my life. -Herb Lanphear

try and do anything he could to allow everybody to drive at the Wildwood Park Regatta. With much work he was able to get an amendment to the legislation and now anybody can race like originally planned. "I just got off the phone the Department of Natural Resources and we are officially on for anyone that is a current APBA member, if you're nine, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 15 or 16 years-old; this is a c'losed course, private affair and the DNR has signed off on the sanction for our village with anybody that is a current member," Lanphear said. "They do not have to take the current boater safety rules as if they were public nor do they fall under any of the requirements of natural regulations." Through all of his hard work ~nd persistence, Lanphear and his team were able to get permanent "verbiage" added to the legislation that will allow all APBA members,

regardless of age, to participate in any race at any time in the state of Georgia. Wildwood Park Regatta was three days of points in two days of racing, and for people chasing points, to drive seven to 10 hours and then not being able to race, could have been devastating, according to Lanphear. "The J Class is so very important to the future of APBA Stock Outboard racing. I was a national champion in the J Class long ago and it had an effect on me and the way I live my life," Lanphear said. "The bottom line is that it's important. You have to get the Juniors involved and if you don't get them involved then you':e missing the whole boat I think. "At nine, 10, 11 years-old, those are really serious years for kids growing up. Stock Outboard racing is so family oriented that there is so much to gain at that age, much more so than somebody starting at 14."

• 'ta.t:-.- PROPELLER ........... ........ ........ ......... ........ ........ ........ ................ ........ ........ ......... ........ ........ ........ ........ ........ ........ ........ .. .

... ....... ........ ..... .... .. ....... ...... ........ ........ ......... ........ ....... .. .... ..... ...... .. ...... ........ ........ ......... ........ ..... .... .... ..... .. PROPELLER -.-A • . -lL-

SPOTLIGHT ON:

"JUST A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO BE ... " being one of the biggest events of the year for Indian River, people from allover come to Indian River for the boat race.

Teaching in Indian River for 37 years, Hagerl knows that her former students who no longer live in the area fly home just for race weekend.

"Not just former residents, but we have people that come over from Traverse City and Houghton Lake just to watch," Hagerl said. "This is an extremely important event for the area. I don't even know how to explain it for what it does."

Taking up most of the day Saturday and Sunday, with race time taking place between

11 a.m. and 2 p.m., there are still many things going on race weekend when the racing ends. Known mostly as a tourist town, Indian River offers plenty of hiking camping and fishing.

Located in the heart of Northern Michigan Indian River is the ideal location to boat, fish, hunt, camp, bike, golf, kayak, canoe, raft, tube, sail, snowmobile, ORV, Motorcycle, ski, bird watch, mushroom hunt, hike, skate, dine, and shop. By water or by land, quiet sport or motor, fun with nature is certain with so many activities available "We are located right in the middle of Michigan's North Central State Trail, Indian River Chamber of Commerce staff

,

member Jodi Drogowski said. "It is a rail trail that is 62-miles and it runs from Gaylord to Mackinac City with a crushed limestone surface that makes it easy to go by foot, bicycle or horseback."

Having the largest waterfall located in the Lower Peninsula, Ocqueoc Falls, "is a beautiful river with a little waterfall and there is a hiking trail in there," Drogowski said. "(Indian River) is just a beautiful outdoor area. It's full of nature and creation at its best.

"It's just a beautiful area and a great place to live. There is lots of sand, lots of water and lots of woods. So, come on up because this is just a beautiful place to be."

//11

Pot 0' Gold For Cape Coral Nationals

Cape Coral, Fla., will take ill; right­ful place as "spc:edboat capital of the world" with the staging of the richest regslfa in hinory on Aug. 26-28. The eveot is the (iT'lt Nlllional Inboard Hydroplane Championships ever [(l be oontested in Flond~ w~teT'l . Regaua fans from throughou t the ~tate and many out-of-staters are e~P"C'cted to pour into C~peCoral. 12 llli.1es south­west of Fort Myers, 10 WItness the compet,uon.

During the thrtt days of. ~ptXd trials and dosed course coropeUllon on the Caloosahatchee River course, seven 1960 national c1ass champions will be crowned. ClasS(:s scheduled are the 48, 13S, 136.225,266and280cu.in. hydrosandthe7 1itres.

Attracted by the lure of oational titles and more Ihan 510,000 in cash pri;&e llIOney, the cream of the nation's hydro. racing jocKeys from C~li fomi a , Washmgton, Maryland, Louhlana and points between will converge on this Gulf Coast community for the even!. BUI the ont-of-~taten will nOt lake home all thebaoon (reoonls or titles) . They'll face stern .competit ion from home state entnes m at least four of the seven dasses.

OVER 50,000 EXPECTED AT OUTBOARD NATIONALS

Oy E. M. (Keel) r uin> .. Vi'~ I' ... .t"'nt.Out_'" Madn!:

If you have 11 frienel who is a top­rated outboard racing dri.·er in these Unit~Stntes,orisanaspirantto~at posilton, don't bother lookmg for hun athomt ~roundthtlLlidLiltofSeplo::lll­ber. The chuDteS arC hc'll be on his WAy to U .. l:~u1icld, C alif., which hu been chosen the site of the Outboard Nationah race on Sept. 24 and 2S. This was done by a majoritr vote of the OU100ard Racing CommIssion early this vcar and wiH make Bakersfield the focal point o[allention whereve.r fast boats are admired across tile natIOn

The drivers will hurtle their beats acros~ beaut ifu l, man-made Lake Ming, just 11 mileseaSlofBaker~eld . Tltis body of water is a boat dnver's

~fe:'%d J(t!j~g Ii:i~~~~;l :~r~\~St~;:l hill-ringed amphitheater), and luu a ~un'eyed,one-mi\ecourse. It.hlU a run of 1,362 ft . from the !itartinghneto the first buoy

The race will be 'lPQnsored by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Com­merce through the efforts of 1o.lanud Carnakis, a member of the Outboard Racing Comminion, a Councilman and lormer Mayor of the Cityof B.1kers-. field T he race will be oonduCleel by

(C"ntj""N""""g~ !I)

SO Nationals Biggest Yet !If Jimmy Jost

V;.,e_plfiident, SI""k Ooll>oa,d R.ing

Plans for the 1960 Stock Outboard Nationals 10 be he1cl at Beloit, Wis., Aug. 22-2S, are well under way and this year may very v.tll p~ove to be tho biggest Stock Nationals In the history of th~ APBA.

A sketch of the closed course and the kilo straig.bta",:ay is shown at the kft. At p=s lime It has not qUIt~ been decided if the closed course will be fourlapsofaB4-milecourse,orthrce laps ofa 1-2/ 3-milecourse .. Presently, hoth eourse~ 3re heins ~lIrve~'ed but it appears thai the l 'A-milc course will be used.

Tht pit areafof Ihis oourse stretches approximately 7/ l()'s of a mile over the ea>t end. Thccourse is located be­(wu n twO bridgell in the City of Beloit. The kilo course staJl~ directly above the Henry Bridge. The pit area will be the ,stftT 7.enith fuM nuh. Thr . .., ; .~ ~

dam five mi1es lip rhe rivcr and anotiler di rectly below the lower bridge. The water is prOiected and will be con­trolled. At tile time of writing it is alUJostcer tain that there wiU be three spots opcn in the fjnalsof:eachcJa~,

Beloit is/lsmall city Iocaleel 75 miles north\\"estofChicago. When the Race Commil1ee [0110(1 that both hillel and mlllel m.:commodations were few in number und that bnnquet nccommoda­tionscould lIothandleover 300 people, arrallgt rn.:nts w.:n: thl:n made to pro­vide all drivers with a chicken bar-b­que and refreshment party on Saturday night, August 27, intheparkarea.

Sunday, August 28. there will be an award part)' at the Wagon Whed, 10-catedinI1hnoisabout 8milesSouthof Beloit, for all the qualified drivers who race in the Jinals.

Kilo trials will start August 22 and continue until the last driver has had a chance 10 run thc traps . Tltequalifying

(Co"tjn ~,d,,~ f><ll" 6/

Nationals Biggest Yet By Jimmy Jost

Vice-President, Stock Outboard Racing

Plans for the 1960 Stock Outboard Nationals to be held at Beloit, Wis., Aug. 22-28, are well under way and this year may very well prove to be the, biggest Stock Nationals in the history of the APBA.

A sketch of the closed course and the kilo straightaway is shown at the left. At press time it has not quite been decided if the closed course will be four laps of a 1 V<! -mile course, or three laps of a 1-2/ 3-mile COurse.' Presently, both courses are being surveyed but it appears that the 1 V<! -mile course will be used . .

The pit area for this cburse stretches approximately 7/ 10's of a mile Qver the. east end. The course is located 'be­tween two bridges in the City of Beloit. The kilo course starts directly above the Henry Bridge. The pit area will be the Star Zenith Boat Club. There is a dam five miles up the river and another directly below the lower bridge. The water is protected and will be con­trolled. At the time of writing it is almost certain that there will be three spots open in the finals of each class.

Beloit is a small city located 75 miles northwest of Chicago. When the Race Committee found that both hotel and motel accommodations were few in number and that banquet accommoda­tions could not handle over 300 people, arrangements were then made to pro­vide all drivers with a chicken bar-b­que and refreshment party on Saturday night, August 27, in the park area.

Sunday, August 28, there will be an award party at the Wagon Wheel, lo­cated in Illinois about 8 miles South of Beloit, for all the qualified drivers who race in the finals.

Kilo trials will start August 22 and continue until the last driver has had a chance to run the traps. The qualifying

(Continued on page 6)

OUTBOARD NATIONALS (Continued from page 1)

the Bakersfield Outboard Racing As­sociation.

You may be assured of a hearty wel~ come in Bakersfield, county seat of Kern County. The Chamber of Com­merce is well aware of the importance of bringing an event of this stature t.o its community. Mute testimony to thIS lies in the fact that the Bakersfield Chamber has underwritten the races for nearly $13,000.

Every convenience has been pro­vided for the benefit of drivers, their families and racing fans in general. The lake has a hard, sandy beach. There are plenty of concrete ramps and docks for the use of boatmen. Restrooms built of concrete block are among other conveniences. They are well spaced and plentiful enough to accommodate the crowd that is expected to attend our nationally important event.

The more-than-adequate facilities include refreshment stands, a restaur­ant and a marina with full equipment for the comfort and convenience of the drivers and their families.

Prizes will be numerous and well worth top notch effort on the part of any competitor worthy of the title. There will be $200 in cash pa:yable to the fifth position. In addition, $100 will be paid to each national champion by Champion Spark Plug Co., and championship plaques will be awarded by the APBA.

There will be some tremendous tro­phies awarded. First place winners will receive a 38-in. trophy. Second place will get a 36-in. award to carry home, and so on through fifth place.

All classes of outboards will be in­vited except M hydras. There will be 12 races and 24 heats.

We believe the 1960 Outboard Na­tionals on Lake Ming's protected waters offer a real challenge to com­petitors. And the races should attract spectators from all over the United States.

One more thing, Bakersfield prides itself on being able to accommodate tremendous crowds at sporting events, conventions and almost any other kind of a gathering. This is because it is a city famous for its great number of large, modern motels and some of the best dining facilities to be found on the Pacific Coast. There are several rea­sons for this. Perhaps the best is that

AUGUST 1960

Bakersfield lies astride U. S. Highway 99, about midway between San Fran­cisco and Los Angeles, has almost year-round sunny climate. In the past few years it has become famous as a convention city. It's a significant fact that more than 100 major conventions are already booked for 1960 in this city that will roll out the red carpet for you in September.

(Ed. Note-Bob Seeger, Chicago, member of the Outboard Racing Commission, re­cently vacationed in California and made it a point to inspect the facilities at Bakers­field. We take pleasure in adding some of his observations on the site of the Outboard Nationals.)

To put it mildly, the extravaganza at Lake Ming promises to be the greatest Outboard Nationals ever. Fifty to 70,000 spectators would not be sur­prising, for at Lake Ming, even with no special week-end promotion, some 10,000 people turn out.

This entire Shangri-La was created by engineers - the lake bed was sur­faced with water-tight clay to prevent seepage and all permanent markers, docks, etc. completed and then the water was added. Pit facilities are like nothing I have ever seen, and I've seen some pips. Take your choice, boys -beautiful hard sand beach or spankin' new docks just the right height from the water.

Ming is % mile wide and over a mile in length. The water is clear as crystal, 16,000 gal. a minute are pumped into it from nearby Kern River to maintain the desired level. On race days the water is completely controlled. There will be no pleasure craft. Ming will be yours alone.

A real western style barbeque for drivers and families is planned, as well as the Victory Banquet. Bakersfield delighted me, too, with her wealth of wonderful new motels.

Well over $2,000 has been guaran­teed in prize money alone, plus more than $1,000 for trophies. Manuel Car­nakis offered this bit of information, "Any driver traveling over 1,200 miles to this year's Outboard Nationals will automatically earn 'show money'." This would apply to every non-money win­ner, of course, as long as he started a heat.

The Bakersfield Chamber of Com­merce has been planning this event for many months. They do things in a big way out there, and this is to be no ex­ception. Let's all be there to enjoy their hospitality and voice our appre­ciation.

\ ___ .. .. .. -r .... -... ~ __

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• Cut-a-way views of hard to build areas • Complete bill of materials

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All Classes Limiteds

Outboard Cabovers Racing B • Stock CD Racing C-D • F Hydro

. . . send $1.00 (applied on purchase of any Ted Jones Craft product) for a-page illus­trated brochure showing w hat we can offer you in fine racing equipment . _ .

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5

//13

CUSTOM DRIVING SUITS Custom Nomex suits built to the racers needs. Lots of designs to choose from or create your own.

Available in a 1 piece or 2 piece, 1 layer or 2 layer and plenty of options to choose from.

E111T IlIeKET INBOARD and OUTBOARD

)i •. ·.; -~I! \1 "~

~. evlar-STEEl CUISuilS

• Sleeves • Pants • 1 Piece Suit • Combo Jackets • Cut Socks • Cut Gloves • Prop Glove

... ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. ..... .. ...... .. .. . PROPELLER -.-A • . -lL-

DILLARD WINS IN KNOXVILLE, TN

Pictured from Left to Right: Ashton Rinker, Brent Dillard

and Jeff Reno

Wolfeboro, NH Vintage 8/10-8/11 Albert Lea, MN ope

Kingston, NH PRO, Stock, Junior 9/14-9/15 Forest Lake, MN ope

REGION 9:

Whitney Point, NY Stock, Modified, Junior 10/12-1 0/13 Memphis, TN ope

Grand Island, NY Vintage REGION 10:

8/2-8/4 Seattle,WA ope, Unlimited, Vintage

8123 -8/25 Lewiston, ID Special Eve nt, Vintage Mays Landing, NJ Inboa rd

8/24-8/25 Eatonville, WA PRO, Modified, Stock, Junior 10/12-1 0/13 Wildwood Crest, NJ Inboard

8/3--9/1 Coeur d' Alene, ID Special Eve nt, Unlimited, Vintage

9/ 1-9/2 Grants Pass, OR Vintage REGION 4:

9/7 -9/8 Spanaway, WA Vintage, Inboa rd, Inboard 8/10-8/ 11 Hampton, VA Special Eve nt, Inboard, Inboard Endura nce

Endura nce, Junior, Vintage, PRO 9/20-9/22 Yelm,WA PRO, Modified, Stock, Junior 8/30-9/1 Wheeling, WV Vintage 9/28-9/29 Issaquah, WA Vintage, Inboard, Inboard 9/28-9/29 New Martinsville, WV Special Eve nt, PRO, Stock, Endurance, Stock, ope, Junior

I nboard, Modified , ope 10/ 5-1 0/6 Lincoln City, OR Special Eve nt, Inboa rd, Inboa rd Endurance, PRO, Modifi ed,

REGION 5: Stock, ope, Junior

8/16-8/18 Cocoa Beach, FL Flori da REGION 11:

9/13-9/ 15 Maraton, FL Vintage, Inboa rd, Offshore 9/ 14-9/15 Copperopolis, CA PRO, Modified, Stock, Junior

10/ 5-1 0/6 Isleton, CA Special Eve nt, Vintage, Stock, REGION 6: ope 8/3-8/4 Portsmouth OH ope 10/19-1 0/20 Nicolaus, CA Vintage, Inboa rd, PRO, Modified,

8/17-8/18 Indian River, MI Junior Stock, ope, Junior

8/24-8/25 Dayton,OH Modified, Stock, Junior

Celina,OH Vintage, Inboa rd, Junior REGION 12:

Grass Lake, MI Stock 8/3 -8/4 Long Beach, CA Spedal Event Inboa rd

Columbus, OH Vintage, Inboa rd 10/26-1 0127 Parker, AZ Spedal Event Inboa rd

Big Rapids, MI Stock Endurance

Hilisboro,OH Vintage, Inboard REGION 16: Chamberlin, SD Inboard

Rising Sun, IN Vintage, ope *Racing Calendar dates are subject to change Oshkosh, WI Modifi ed, Stock, Junior *Please visit apba.org/races for an up-to-date

race calendar

Being a chief scorer doesn't start at the races site; it starts days before at home getting all of the paperwork

ready for the race weekend.

The day starts at the crack of dawn, so there is no sleeping-in allowed. Once at the race the first thing we scorers do is set up for registration, which is no easy task at any race. We have to make sure the driver's paperwork is filled out correctly for APBA, have drivers and crew sign the waiver and much more goes into registration depending on the race site and category.

When all of the racers and crew members are registered, then it comes time for roll call and the driver's meeting. At the drivers meeting, we complete any other needed paperwork we need for the day. Not long after drivers meeting, racing usually begins.

~ ..

During the race day, the steadily busy. Overlooking doing the lapping and or racing, along with making results are correct and any disqualifications or have to go back and change

Mter racing is complete and have cleared inspection, the chief

A SCORER'S DAY ~A~ THE RACES

is in charge of posting and turning in results from the race to APBA. The final paperwork takes even more work, that is usually done at home after the race weekend has completed, taking many hours to get everything correct and complete for the APBA office. So next tl e you are at your local race, please thank your chief scorer for everything they do. o

EMAIL PAULI(EMIEL@SBCGLOBAL.NET. ED CAPTURE YOUR FAVORITE RACE MOME~II=.~S

As a wife, mother and racer; A-Stock driver Amy Sweeney's days at the races are filled with more emotions than most. Amy, her husbandJim and her children Michael and Logan are always having something to work on,fix or do. With somebody in her family almost always on the water, Amy is always on the top of her game both on and off the water.

Question: How did you first get into boat racing?

Amy Sweeney: My husband Jim, he has been racing ever since he was a little kid he has been going to boat races with his family. He started racing when he was 12 and then when I met him he was racing D-Stock Hydro and he got me into it.

Q: What was it about boat racing that appealed to you?

AS: It's not just one thing; it's a lot of things. It's getting ready, traveling with the family to the boat races, getting anxious to see the people that we are going to race against and then just talking about the boat racing and then getting in the boat. It's the whole boat racing experience not just getting in the boat and racing. It is the whole experience.

Q: Your race days can get pretty busy, not just with yourself but with your husband Jim and your kids Michael and Logan. How do you find time for all of it?

//20

AS: Well luckily I have the best husband in the world. We are a great team and we know what needs to get done and we all just work together to get it done. Yeah by the end of the day we are exhausted but at the same time we work together as a team and get it done.

Q: Throughout the years, what is your most memorable boat racing moment?

AS: There are a lot; watching my son win his first nationals at a young age, watching my other one break a record. As far as maybe racing, I raced against Dan Keylard all the time in the Midwest and he had his stuff running real fast, as did 1. My second year of racing we got out to California for the nationals; first heat going down side by side coming out of the first turn first and second, we spent three laps side by side. That was probably the ultimate racing that I can remember.

Q: Would you consider him your biggest rival?

AS: Back in the day, yes. Now there are a lot. He was fun to race; it was just a lot of fun racing against (Keylard). There were a lot of competitive people back then and there are a lot of competitive people now. You always have to be on your game and you always have to go testing.

Q: This being your first full year in A-Stock Runabout, what are you hoping for? What are your expectations?

AS: I just want to finish and getting into the nationals would be awesome in A-Runabout.

Q: At just 13 years-old your son Logan has already had quite the racing career. How did he pick up so quickly on boat racing and what does he enjoy most?

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AS: You know what, between my husband Q: What is the most rewarding part of keeping our rigs top-notch and always winning? working on our motors, and we're testing all the time, having Logan in the boat and testing a lot and him getting out there. He is just a laid back kid but when he gets behind that wheel he is just; a different Logan comes out and he wants to win. I don't know what it is. It's just a lot of hard work and he loves coming to the boat races. He's a natural.

Q: In two Hall of Champions inductions, Logan always seems to be a hit with his speeches, how do they come about and what is it about his speeches that people enjoy so much?

AS: I think he does a great job of public speaking. Sometimes he is nervous as heck when he is up there but he has a great sense of humor and I think he just delivers it well. He practices speeches and I don't know I think he is just good at it.

AS: The feeling of accomplishment after testing as much as we do and winning. Just coming in and knowing that it all paid off. Getting up at 4 a.m. to get to the river so we can be all set up when the sun is just coming up, it was worth it.

Q: With boat racing being in your family's blood, where do you see the Sweeney boat racing future going?

AS: Hopefully my sons will keep into boat racing. I can see Logan staying in it for sure. Michael is in so many other sports that he kind of puts boat racing on the back burner but he loves it too and has the passion for it. I can see them both continuing and Jim and I will both continue to come and support them when they start their families. We will be right on that water when their kids are out there. That's what I hope.

Q: What's one piece of advice that you would give to a new driver getting into the sport?

AS: Come to the driver's school for sure. Driving schools give students the opportunity to get out there before a first race. Before the driving schools really took off, people's first race would be in a race with these big guys who have been racing for 20 or 30 years. I just love the driving school I would also recommend that people hook up with some boat racing families and have them take you under their wing so they can show you what to get and what are good boats and all of the equipment. We just love boat racing and I can't say enough about it.

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/ / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / /CATEGORY CORNER/ /

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BY / / GLEASON RACING PHOTOGRAPHY

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PROPERLY PROTECTING YOUR HEAD Head and neck trauma are two of the biggest safety concerns when it comes to racing power boats.

To help protect the capsule drivers, a minimum of two-inches of space is required between the top of a drivers head and the bottom of the cockpit. "Minimum 2" clearance above driver/riding mechanic to cockpit or canopy," Inboard rule 3.13.7 states. However it is recommended to help keep drivers safe that four-inches of space is used between the helmet and cockpit.

OPC rule 3.2.1 states, "Minimum 2" clearance above driver's helmet is required; minimum 4" clearance is recommended. It is strongly recommended that all reinforced cockpit hulls De safety inspected each race day with an emphasis on minimum (2") helmet clearance."

Rule 19-G in the PRO Rule book says, ''All reinforced cockpits must include coverage over at least 5(i)% of the top of the driver's helmet with a minimum of 2" clearance above the driVier's head and coverage over at least 50% of the side of the driver's helmet with the driver's head in the furthest aft position, as an integral part of the cockpit construction. It is recommended in PRO hulls with restrained drivers in reinforced cockpits that there be 4" of head clearance above the helmet. Four-inch head clearance shall be required on nulls built after October 31, 2010. It is recommended that in a reinforced cockpit, an opening of at least nine (9) square inches be made in

the seatlbackboard, behind the driver's helmet, so as to reduce the hydraulic effect on the driver in case of an accident."

Former chairman of the APBA Safety Committee, Mike Weber stresses the importance of having the proper amount of head clearance, "your body and neck can stretch several inches and your biggest enemy is the impact between your head and a hard object capsule, canopy or roll bar," "If your body can stretch and not hit anything, your chances for survival or minimal injuries are greatly increased. Having the proper amount of headroom in the extremely important.

According to the University of San Diego, Injury to the head and can cause blocked airway, facial seizures, speech problems, paralysis, and a wide variety of other issues. Treatment of serious head and neck injury regularly involves the experience of facial nerve experts, facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons, skull-base surgeons, vascular surgeons, neurosurgeons, trauma surgeons, rehabilitation therapists and 0Fth0f>edists.

There are many things that can be done to adjust for the proper amount of room, one of the most efficient ;ways of doing this is by

tipping the seat back.

"Usually what we try to do us use your fist as a gauge. If you can fit your fist between the top of your helmet and the cockpit then you probably meet the rule,"Weber said. "I think we need to continue to talk to people about the risks and make them realize why it's important. The capsules are great, but that doesn't mean they can't be better.

"We've come a long way with where our capsules are today. We have greatly reduced the serious injuries in our sport and I think we need to continue working on it because our goal is always to get better and safer."

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REGION 3 Summer is finally here and we're in race mode in the mid-Atlantic. As I write this, the kevlars are still wet from a great weekend of racing in Lock Haven, Penn. Traditionally just a Labor Day race, a few years back Delaware Valley Outboard Racing Association decided it'd be a good spot to host a spring race as well. The town was always excited to have us, and

this year was our turn to host the Northeast Divisionals and the North American Championships for AXSH and AXSR. It was also the debut of the digital clock for the Northeast.

We had over 90 entries and a full day of racing. Having to work out a few bugs with the digital clock, all racing operations went smoothly and we were able to get our racers out of state headed home at a very reasonable hour on Sunday. Congratulations to all of the National qualifiers, and many

thanks to all the racers who attended, volunteers, scorers and the town of Lock Haven. Full race results are posted on dvoraracing.com

Next up for Region 2 is the Stock Outboard, Modified Outboard and Junior Class Nationals in Whitney Point, NY. We're working hard with our partners, SORA, to put on a great event, and we look forward to seeing everyone there.

/ /Dave Breisacher

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REGION 10 There are a lot of people who say and believe that outboard racing is on the decline. Apparently somebody forgot to tell the outboarders in Region 10. Bucking trends seen in other parts of the country, things have been booming in the upper left corner of the U.S. Seattle Outboard hosted a one day event at Silver Lake in Everett, just a few miles north of Seattle proper. The event featured over 100 entries, and the race committee, led by Race Director Jim Nilsen and Chief Referee Rick Sandstrom, managed to pull off 38 heats of racing in under six hours. Lots of good close racing, excellent weather and the unique "triangle" course made for a superb day of racing.

Not to be outdone, our neighbors to the south in Columbia Outboard Racing Association hosted an excellent season of racing at Cullaby Lake, just off Highway 101 on the Oregon coast, just between the towns of Seaside and Astoria. The race, this year named "The Roy Blackwell Memorial Regatta," saw entries from four western states and Canada, with over 120 entries each day of racing. The Yamato-powered classes boasted some impressive numbers, with 22 20SS Hydros, 17 C-Stock Hydros and a dozen OSY 400s. CORA also hosted the J Hydro and Runabout Western Divisionals, as well as the "Western Divisionals" for our popular local class, Novice-C Hydro. Racers were treated to outstanding weather, great racing conditions, and a race that came offlike a well-oiled machine. Thanks to Race Director Mike Johnson and his crew. We also are seeing a resurgence in our Junior classes, with six J Hydros racing on Sunday at Cullaby, and a number of new people interested for next year. Yep, life is good here.

Sandwiched between those two events, a good number of Region 10 racers travelled south to Copperopolis, Calif., to support the Western Divisional Championships. The Stockers really came through and by the time the weekend was over, there

were big enough fields in A-Stock Hydro, 20SS Hydro, C-Stock Hydro and C-Stock Runabout to quali£}r four lucky drivers for the finals at the Stock Nationals in Whitney Point, NY. Expect to see Zach Malhiot of Moby Grape Racing in C-Stock Hydro and Runabout, Aaron "Fish" Salmon in 20SS Hydro and Tony Lombardo in A-Stock Hydro. Congratulations, gentlemen.

Just a little south of Seattle, the Dogadore of Tacoma Inboard Racing Association, Shawn "Big Dog"Warren, gives us the low­down on TIRA's successful 2013 season: "Well, the 2013 Moses Lake race for Tacoma Inboard was a huge success. Ana Cappelletti and the entire Solar Cup team did a fantastic job, a great tune up for next year's 2014 Western Divisionals.The weather was beautiful; a little wind Saturday morning kept the outboards on the beach but not the E-1 My Way. Kip Brown flew the 5 litre around that one-mile course to a new world record. Congratulations to Kip Brown, Jeff Bernard and Marty Haack for a job well done. Dan Kanfoush and the Y-1 Fast Eddie Too went four for four and ran on the record but came up a little short in a very competitive 1 litre class.

The 2.5 stocks put on show both Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday,Jesse Robertson driving the S-12 Liquid Lizard went airborne entering the left turn, luckily the boat landed right side up. On Sunday it was JP Squires'turn driving the S-83 Megabucks. JP went over entering the right turn. Unlike Jesse,JP ended upside down. We were just glad that neither driver was hurt, and a special thanks to everyone in Region 10 Rescue for a job well done all weekend ensuring our racer's safety. We had a good turnout of flat bottoms, headlined by Charlie Marquard driving the K -150 Tribal Thunder doing a demonstration run that lit up the big crowd and racers alike. Nothing says 'boat racing' more than a K boat on a hot lap. Here is a big shout out to all of the outboard racers and their families along with everyone from SOA for holding out after Saturday and putting on two great days for racing on Sunday. Tacoma Inboard Racing Association now turns our attention to Pateros, Wash., for

the Terry Troxell Race on the river. This is a beautiful large park setting which allows the spectators easy access to some great racing and vendors. Race director Tim Hamilton and partner Julie Porter work very hard to put on this race in an area that is struggling with the economy. We will end our year with the 2013 APBA Summer Nationals at Spanaway Lake just outside of Tacoma, Wash. Anyone who attended the 2011 Western Divisionals knows that this is a great place to race and TIRA promises that nobody will be disappointed that they attended this Summer Nationals." "Safe racing everyone." - Shawn Warren

Another one of our Inboard clubs, Seattle Drag and Ski, has been busy too with a new event at Soap Lake and preparations for the annual Black Lake event. Jim Codling fills us in on their doings:

"Our first eastern Washington swing is complete and both Moses Lake and our new Soap Lake event are under the bridge so to speak.

"The brand new Soap Lake race with Terry Anderson and his Seattle Drag and Ski group was a great success. The town's people were pleased with the turnout, 45 boats and they loved the J kids that came over. Howard Shaw played the father role and had the youngsters off and running both days, much to the parents delight. One proud Mom, Tandy Mauldin even got to buy a $60.00 buoy as her young son speared a ball Oust like Dad!)"

A lot of you saw the 5 litre start on Facebook, and all five boats went straight across the starting line together and looked really nice. Same thing went for the 2.5 stocks and llitres. The Grand Prix boats roared to a 110 mph with the 18 boat of the Bridgeman's running the competition ragged over the 1 % mile course. It looks like they found their engine problems, as all were left in their wake especially after the 12 boat of Bob Schellhase blew an engine early. But we did have four and five finishers in every heat, the crowd loved it. Mayor Raymond Gravelle got a charge out

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of starting the heats with the flag and all his staff members were having a great time. It was a successful first time event for the small town.

The Burley, Idaho, race went off well with about 70 entries over the marathon three day event. Dick Price ran a smooth fast flowing event, on the river course. Stan Masel won the Moyle Mink with his pink panther boat driven by Jeff Bernard setting the tone for the difficult "percentage to the course record," as he blistered the course for his first time in the new Fasttraxx-powered 1 litre boat.

Next up, by about the time you get this issue of the Propeller, will be the biggest Region 10 race of the year, Black Lake and the Western Divisional event. They have 57 entries already for this long lasting event celebrating their 36th year at the little lake next to the state capital buildings. New race Chairman Jack Sipila got his training wheels from long time Chairman Jerry Dugan who is stepping aside after this year. All eyes are set for the Summer Nationals in September. Scott and Linda Carson stepped up and sponsored the Tacoma Inboard event and we are very thankful for their support, and looking forward to the first Summer Nationals since the Renton event in 2001.

The long time event in Oroville, Wash., set for September has been cancelled for this year in order to give the local sponsors some time to re-group and get some more support. Seattle Inboard Racing Association plans on a bigger 2014 race at the big lake near Canada." - Jim Codling

Things are pretty quiet in southern Oregon with the Cal-Ore River racers. Larry Darneille tells us, "The dry spring is taking a toll on the Cal-Ore schedule with the race at Hoopa, Calif., on June 8 and 9 cancelled because oflow water. The Trinity River shares its water with the California Central Valley Project. Low snow pack this spring led to an early diversion which left the river unsafe to race on. The next race is the Lower Rogue Challenge at Gold

Beach, Ore., on July 6 and 7. The lower Rogue River is notorious for Pacific fronts and the ever-present wind which is always a challenge to negotiate. Cal-Ore river racing is unique, one race you will be running a river with class two rapids, the next will be flat water with rock bars and wind. It is always a challenge." -Larry Darnielle

From our Vintage racers, Ron Morrison provides us with an interesting historical perspective on a boat I used to love to watch many years ago, the Karelsen bullet Calypso Too. Here's Ron's story for this month:

"In the Vintage Division celebrating the history and tradition ofInboard hydroplanes is an important element of what we do, much of it captured in the engaging stories of the boats we bring back life. One such story relates to the Schneider family's rescue and return of the vintage 280 class hydroplane, 'Calypso Too.' The hull's origin is in 1970 when designer/builder Ed Karelsen created it for John Forbes and Dr. Keith Peterson. The 'Calypso' name is part of a tradition of its own, as this hull is one of four 'Calypso' 280 hydros that John Forbes owned and raced through several decades in Region 10.

Mter its introduction, the Karelsen rig with Frank Schneider driving, had quite a season in 1971 including setting a 280 class national record of79.929 mph on Seattle's Green Lake and flipping at Dexter Dam in Oregon. The 1971 Green Lake record was the last time the 280 class standard was set by a conventional hull, it has been cab overs ever since. The boat completed limited race schedules in 1972 and 1973, is thought to have been sold in 1974, and competed in several races in 1975 under the new ownership.

Here the picture gets cloudy. Moving ahead it went through more owners, ending with a partnership headed by Craig Magnusson. Magnusson traded the boat to a person in Sandpoint, Idaho, for an antique pleasure craft. This person's idea was to make the hull into a two-seater with outboard power. Modifications in this direction were begun

including removal of the deck and hardware. But the plan languished and in time the boat returned to Seattle, again in the hands of Craig Magnusson.

In September, 2006, Jeff Schneider, Frank's son, purchased the boat out of a Seattle warehouse; hull, hardware (less the skid fin), partial cowling and what was said to be an original propeller. With the purchase a restoration plan began; hull structures were repaired and renewed and a new deck installed. The cowling was a challenge but Doc Peterson had an original one that could be used to create a mold, with Don Kelson's help, to make a proper replacement. A 273 Plymouth engine, like the original, was found and installed. The proper red and white paint was applied and Jesse Robertson did his magic to recreate the original graphics. It all came together and in late season 2012, the 'Calypso Too'was back with its uniquely beautiful, long, lean silhouette on the water and driving it once again." - Ron Morrison

As we wrap up this month's report, the Unlimited hydros of our region are all on the road, off to races in Madison, Ind., and Detroit, Mich. The fleet will return, hopefully unscathed, to the Northwest in mid July, and prepare for the western swing of the H1 season, this year with a new stop in Coeur D 'Alene, Idaho, on Labor Day Weekend. Race Director Doug Miller and his gang of Coeur D'Alene "Hydromaniacs" are going all out for the first Unlimited event on the lake since 1968, planning an event that will host the H1 Thunderboats, Vintage Unlimiteds and Grand Prix hydros. Book your rooms early. All for now, -Patrick Gleason

/ /Patrick Gleason / /Shawn Warren / /Jim Godling / /Larry Darneille / /Ron Morrison

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REGION 11 The Tammy Dawe Memorial Regatta and Western Divisionals were held at the Salt Spring Valley Resort and Campground on June 15 and 16 near Copperopolis, Calif. The temperatures were in the high 70s and low 80s for the weekend and, in order to make it palpable, Mother Nature offered a gentle breeze to fan the lake and put a nice little two inch chop on the water making for great racing conditions for most of the weekend.

It was a good thing testing was offered on Friday afternoon because the guys from Region 10 are not used to such warm water conditions. So they received an opportunity to tweak their engines, which are normally run in much colder water. The Southern California drivers ran in "more of the same" conditions and did well on both days, as did the Region 10 racers. With racers from Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona and California the number of registered entries exceeded 105.

With the East Bay Boat Club serving as the host club, it was the combination of Jim Nilsen of Region 10 and Daniel Wilde of EBBC teaming up to serve as co-race directors and running a smooth, efficient operation. Referee duties were handled by Rick Sandstrom; Region 10, Ernie Dawe; Region 12 and Gloria Crim; Region 11. Inspection was handled by Steve Greaves; Region 10, Steve Wilde; Region 11 and Dan Schwartz; Region 11. Dan was assisted by Brian Schmeltz who is in Inspection Trainee Program here in Region 11. Jean MacKay Schwartz served as Chief Scorer and was assisted by O'Hara Schmeltz and Kay Boyes at various times during the program. Karl Bishop of EBBC served as Risk manager, doing a bang-up job when he was not taking his turn in his runabouts. Stu Ford did a great job of getting the boats ready to race as well as to assure that they got out of the water upon concluding their heats, in order to keep the flow going smoothly.

To say this was a concerted, combined effort is really soft pedaling the operation. For example, note that Lauren Johnson, who volunteered to work on the judge's stand, left Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, drove most of the night, arriving in time for the drivers' meeting, raced her C-Stock Hydro, and still made time to work the judge's stand. Speaking of racing, she starts just like her father, Joe Johnson, with that patented start that he has perfected over the years. Brittney Schwartzenbach of Apple Valley Marine not only took home the custom made first place plaque in AXH, she too found time to work the judge's stand with another youngster, Maddy Martin, from Region 10.

Kent Gabrielson, back after a 40-year hiatus, raced in 20SSH, but also took time to go to work on the judge's stand as a volunteer. Another veteran watched every minute of every heat while on the judge's stand doing his part. Yes, that would be good old Bill Miller who is always ready to lend a hand. By the way, he served as the timer, also. The Wilde Bunch came through once again. Steve and Daniel Wilde performed above and beyond throughout the weekend. Setting up, tearing down and directing all fell within their realm. Vicky Wilde aided at every turn and once again operated the East Bay Boat Club Cafe providing coffee and snacks for the racers.

As to setting up and tearing down, the Steve Walde pit crew emerged from nowhere and pitched right in to help with the operation. I'm sure that Karl Bishop was happy to see Joey Catucci and Ralph Bernea join in with Steve and Sue Walde to get things wrapped up and loaded for transport at the end of the meet.

Couldn't help but notice the support people down from Region 10. Tony Perman, the father of Mike Perman, Patrick Gleason and Jim Nilson all pulled together to assist the young racers from up north. They are like a big extended family when it comes to helping the kids.

A gentle breeze topped off the racing for the weekend and soon after the final heat the awards were made. However, some major taking down of equipment and loading had to take place. Once again, the "Wilde Bunch" came to the fore and started the monumental task of beginning the Tear down

Karl Bishop had already quietly begun the job. Soon, as though out of nowhere, a new "gang" emerged to work with Karl and the Wilde Bunch. Alas, it was the Steve Walde team made up of his wife Sue,Joe and Andi Catucci and Ralph and Diane Bernea. What a welcome sight and what a tremendous relief they provided to the already worn out crew of helpers. They rolled up yards and yards of snow fencing and put everything where it could be loaded into a truck for transport back to the Global Village warehouse of Rex "Rocket" Bothell in Concord. Then it was trophy time. Beautiful plaques custom made by Jean MacKay Schwartz, and a couple of other little elves, were distributed to the racers having achieved podium finishes. Region Chairman, Bill Boyes, did the honors and congratulated each recipient upon taking possession of the awards. Detailed race results and Western Divisional winners are listed on the APBA website.

Somehow I couldn't help but think that Tammy Dawe had looked down upon the weekend scene and I'm sure she said, "that was good."

/ /Frank Banducci

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REGION 15 "How was it," Mike Gibbs shouted to his daughter Haley, who was taking off her helmet after having been pulled off the ramp. Mter pausing, she caught her breath: "Rough," she shouted back and added a long-stretched-out "M -y-G-o-d." If one thing summarizes the weekend at the Port Neches Riverfest put on by S.P.O.R.T., it was this remark of 16-year-old Haley: It was rough and wild with waves rocking like Galveston Bay.

A fierce wind often blew out of the north or northeast and people were dressed in hoodies and long pants most of the time. For boats running up to 120 mph, to ride straight into 30mph wind meant dealing with a dangerous lift effect like a plane accelerating down the runway. In the turns it meant that one saw little spray from the rooster tails of the others in front. Since boats in SST-45 can reach 70 mph and in F1 Sport even 120 mph, a wind of that magnitude and persistence adds dangerous forces. For announcers Mike Tilton and Lionel Dowling, 35-year veterans of race announcing, this certainly provided a thrilling new experience in the normally hotter than blazes early May in Texas.

With the fierce wind, rolling swells and large number of contenders in all classes, no wonder it all contributed to that exciting mix of risk and fun. Danger lay in the air. An unusually large crowd on the banks watched and waited for something spectacle to emerge.

In the second heat in the SST -45 class, one driver cut across right in front of another one in the first turn. The overtaken

tunnel climbed vertically up the

roostertail of the overtaker and then crashed horizontally on the rear cowl and motor of a third boat. In F1 Sport, one boat was performing well until the bottom suddenly started to delaminate and big strings of wood fiber hung down from the bottom of its left sponson. Different temperatures strain motors in different ways. Two carbureted motors stuck pistons because they were not fattened up enough. Some other teams left their motors mounted too high for the rough water.

Sunday was worse than Saturday and when the wind gusts picked up again on Sunday afternoon the finals for the SST-45s were postponed and the Tri Hulls were put in first. The drivers needed all their strength to keep an iron grip on their steering wheels while their boats nearly performed like flying fish. Corey Walker held the lead for 19 laps before his boat went dead in the water. Once more, Scary Jerry Rinker, the matador from countless other races, took the victory lap with the checkered flag in his hand. His friend and team chief young Darryl Middleton was also in the melee.

When SST-45 was finally called to the ramps some were careful and avoided the excitement of risk: one female contender skipped the last quali£}ring heat before the finals to reduce her chances of boat damage. Another seasoned racer voluntarily started on the outside in the last position in order not to be squished in the middle of field between the commitment buoy and the first turn buoy.

At the starting dock, an Australian visitor watched seemingly calmly, although his impression deceived: He had just ordered three boats from R.J. West in order to introduce SST -45 Class racing in Singapore. The racer had been in California and came to Houston in order to see the class in action. He was unexpectedly impressed by the tri hull racing.

Cajun food and a carnival added cayenne

of SPORT organized this race, everything was ran smoothly and professionally.

On Saturday evening an endless line waited patiently in front of a rich buffet stocked not only with barbecue, but enriched with huge quantities of boiled crawfish and crawfish etoufee, Burgers from Bubba Burgers and pies supplied by diligent volunteers. It would be hard to imagine a better-organized and more successful race.

A joy was the recent upgrade of the motors from Junior Hydro class to AX Hydro. The five young contenders certainly had much more fun racing than last year, and one can only wish that this class will grow. Four out of five hydros are owned and lent out by Sport Marine, owned by the Schuberts. And as always, Sport Rescue performed reliably and excellently.

REGION 16 Region 16 is hosting its one and only Inboard regatta in Chamberlain-Oacoma, South Dakota. The dates are August 17and18. The classes on the schedule are 1 Litre, 2.5 Stock,5 Litre and 2.5 Modified. $15,000 tow money will be distributed equally to all participants. We have commitments from teams in Region 6, Region 7, Region 9, Region 10 and Region 16. Come and join the fun.

Chamberlain-Oacoma is a wonderful host city for boat racing, with a great facility. River City Racin is the local club and for a relatively new club they manage the race as seasoned veterans. Make a vacation out of this one as it is a fun race and close to the beauty ofMt. Rushmore, the Black Hills, the Bad Lands and Sturgis.

Hope to see you there. Qyestions, contact Dutch Squires.

pepper and more entertainment to the Port / /Dutch Squires Neches Riverfest. It seemed that everyone was very happy with the way John Schubert

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