Propeller June/July 2016

VOLUME 70, ISSUE 5 • JUNE/JULY 2016

APBA.ORG • USA: $5.00

WINTERNATIONALS

East and West - Stock and Modified

FIRST WIN Passing the Dunk Test

return of Red Bird

IN THIS ISSUE 17640 East Nine Mile Road, PO Box 377 // Eastpointe MI 48021-0377 PHONE: 586.773.9700 // WEB: apba.org // EMAIL: apbahq@apba.org twitter.com/APBARacing // facebook.com/APBARacing EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACCOUNTING MEMBERSHIP SANCTIONS/ HIGH POINTS PROPELLER EDITOR

Patrick Mell Linda Likert Sabrina Haudek Cindy Minoletti Tana Moore

pmell@apba.org llikert@apba.org shaudek@apba.org cminoletti@apba.org tmoore@apba.org

2016 APBA OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT NATIONAL COMMISSIONER TREASURER SECRETARY LEGAL COUNCIL

Mark Wheeler Fred Hauenstein Charles Strang Steve Compton Mary Williams Steven Hearn J. David Augustine Sr. Kyle Bahl Dan Kanfoush Jean MacKay-Schwartz Howie Nichols Jan Shaw Bill Thompson James Chambers Buddy Tennell

president@apba.org VP@apba.org NC@apba.org treasurer@apba.org secretary@apba.org legal@apba.org patndave2@verizon.net racerkyle@hotmail.com dankanfoush@yahoo.com jean84c@earthlink.net apba113@aol.com info@woodshedemb.comcastbiz.net boatinspector@comcast.net OPC@apba.org Region14@apba.org

COUNCIL-AT-LARGE: Penny Anderson, Bruce Broussard, Jeffrey Conant, Gloria Crim, Richard Fuchslin, Patrick Gleason, Alex Jennings III, Jack Meyer, Steve Noury, Bob Wartinger, Rachel Warnock, Matt Yarno

2016 RACING CATEGORY/COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN Inboard Inboard Endurance Junior Classes Modified Offshore OPC Outboard Drag PRO Special Event Stock Thundercat Unlimited Vintage and Historic

Mark Weber Ted Kolby Patrick Gleason Tom Sutherland Mark Wheeler James Chambers Jr. Chris Fairchild Kristi Ellison Scott Schatz Jeff Brewster Jeff Howie Steve David John Krebs

inboardracing@apba.org Inboardendurance@apba.org junior@apba.org modifiedoutboard@apba.org offshore@apba.org opc@apba.org outboarddrag@apba.org prooutboard@apba.org specialevent@apba.org stockoutboard@apba.org masterauto1150@yahoo.com unlimited@apba.org vintage @apba.org

2016 REGION CHAIRMEN Region 1 Region 2 Region 3 Region 4 Region 5 Region 6 Region 7 Region 8 Region 9 Region 10 Region 11 Region 12 Region 14 Region 15 Region 16

Dave Jones John Krebs Ann Shaw Richard Shaw Jeff Titus Tom Johnston Kris Shepard Don Lick Billy Wichers Rick Sandstrom Julian Rucki Roger Carr Buddy Tennell Carleton Callahan Dutch Squires

region1@apba.org region2@apba.org region3@apba.org region4@apba.org region5@apba.org region6@apba.org region7@apba.org region8@apba.org region9@apba.org region10@apba.org region11@apba.org region12@apba.org region14@apba.org region15@apba.org region16@apba.org

PROPELLER© welcomes unsolicited articles and photos. Views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publication and do not represent official APBA policy. Advertising herein cannot be construed as an endorsement

by APBA or its members. PROPELLER (ISSN 0194-6218) (USPS 0047-800) is published six times yearly for $25.00 (U.S. and Canada); $55.00 (foreign) by APBA, 17640 E. Nine Mile Road, PO Box 377, Eastpointe, MI 48021-0377 Periodical postage paid at Eastpointe, MI, and additional mailing office. Postmaster: send addresses to APBA, PO BOX 377, Eastpointe, MI, 48021-0377.

First Win Steve Kohlenstein passes the dunk test 4 Winternationals Go West 6 ’Sup, Jesup? Eastern Stock/Mod Winternational Results 10 Rooster-Tales: Return of Red Bird 12 Newberg Heats Up 14 Powerboat Nationals 2016 16 When Is It Time to Race?

18

DE PA RT M E N TS Inside Lane 2 From the Top 3 Suited For Safety 8 Race Calendar 9 Category Corner Stock Outboard 20 Junior Classes 21 Inboard 22 Modified Outboard 23 In Pictures 24 H1 Unlimiteds Guntersville Back on the Schedule 26 Region Roundup 3, 4, 5, 6, 10 28 Race in Peace IBC CORRECTION

In the Offshore article on page 14 of the April/May Propeller, the author’s name was incorrect. The actual writers were Rich and Pete Smith of Smith Brothers Offshore Racing Team, 2015 OPA/APBA Class 6 National Champions. We regret the error and congratulate the Smith brothers on a fantastic racing season and a great article. Thank you!

ON THE COVER:

Aaron Salmon and Nicole Dunlap in 850 Mod Runabout at Sammamish Slough, Washington. Photo by Gleason Racing Photography // 1

THE INSIDE LANE 1. How often do you go to the APBA.org website?

BY // PATRICK MELL, APBA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Answer Options

After almost four months as APBA’s Executive Director, each day is still a new learning experience. I am thankful for the support of the APBA staff, Board and members. I am astounded by the dedication of Board, Category and Region chairmen, clubs and volunteers. As a past organizer of over 150 races, I know how much work goes into each one.

I have watched many boat races, but never really observed how each APBA category runs their racing from start to finish. To better assist and support the clubs and members, I must understand the process. So this year will be a big learning experience. This summer my goal is to attend races in every APBA category. First is the Stock/Mod/J race and driving school in Constantine, Michigan. I will also be at Inboard, Offshore, Unlimited and OPC events, so don’t be surprised to see me at the races, asking lots of questions.

APBA SURVEY RESULTS

The APBA is a member organization, set up to service its members and clubs and to promote the sport of boat

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Multiple times daily Every couple of days Weekly Monthly Rarely

Response Response Percent Count 2.7% 10 13.2% 48 18.7% 68 29.4% 107 36.0% 131 364 answered question skipped question 1

2. How often do you read Propeller magazine online?

Response Response Percent Count 29.2% 106 Every month 17.1% 62 On the months Propeller is not printed 26.7% 97 Rarely 20.4% 74 Never - Its too hard to read online 6.6% 24 Never - Don't care 363 answered question skipped question 2 Answer Options

3. Do you find it difficult to read Propeller magazine online?

Answer Options Not difficult at all Somewhat difficult Extremely difficult I do not read the online Propeller

Response Response Percent Count 21.5% 78 41.3% 150 21.8% 79 15.4% 56 363 answered question skipped question 2

4. How satisfied are you with the current Propeller magazine?

Answer Options Very satisfied

Response Percent 19.2%

EveryOne couple racing. of ofmydays main goals is to dramatically improve Weekly services and communication between the organization Monthly Rarely and its members and clubs. In the coming months you will receive surveys asking how we can better serve you. Please give us your feedback.

2. How often do you read Propeller magazine online?

In September I will attend the TEAMS conference Responsefor Response Answer Options Percent host cities and event promoters. I will represent all APBACount 29.2% 106 Every month categories to cities interested in hosting and financially 62 17.1% On the months Propeller is not printed 26.7% 97 Rarely supporting boat races, as well as the Annual Meeting. Clubs 20.4% 74 Never - Its too hard to read online 6.6% 24 - Don't care andNever promoters, please give me a call at 586-773-9700.

Next 363 answered question season the APBA will have sample host site and sponsor 2 skipped question proposals, contracts, press releases, event checklists, and a 3. Do you find it difficult to read Propeller magazine online? how-to race manual for new clubs. These are just a few of Response Response Options theAnswer projects we are working on.

Percent Count 21.5% 78 Not difficult at all It has been an exciting four months, and I look 41.3%forward to 150 Somewhat difficult 21.8% to support 79 Extremely difficult seeing you at the races this summer, and helping 15.4% 56 I do not read the online Propeller boat racing.

363 answered question

skipped question

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4. How satisfied are you with the current Propeller magazine?

1. How often do you go to the APBA.org website?

Answer Options

Multiple times daily

Response Response Percent Count 2.7% 10 13.2% 48 18.7% 68 29.4% 107 36.0% 131 364 answered question 1 skipped question

Response Count 69

Answer Options Very satisfied Somewhat satisfied Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied Somewhat dissatisfied Very dissatisfied

Response Response Percent Count 19.2% 69 33.6% 121 23.9% 86 15.0% 54 8.3% 30 360 answered question skipped question 5

5. Currently, Propeller magazine is published every month, 5 printed and mailed issues and 7 that are online only. How satisfied are you with this cycle?

Answer Options Very satisfied Somewhat satisfied Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied Very dissatisfied

Response Response Percent Count 12.1% 44 21.7% 79 30.2% 110 36.0% 131 364 answered question skipped question 1

6. If an annual APBA Yearbook was provided at no charge, would you be willing to receive fewer online only issues of Propeller magazine?

Answer Options Yes - that would be great Interested Not sure No - I want more Propeller

Response Response Percent Count 35.3% 128 26.2% 95 22.0% 80 16.5% 60 363 answered question skipped question 2

7. How would you feel if the online only Propeller magazines were replaced with newsletters?

Response

Response

3. Do you find it difficult to read Propeller magazine online?

Answer Options Not difficult at all Somewhat difficult Extremely difficult I do not read the online Propeller

Response Response Percent Count 21.5% 78 41.3% 150 21.8% 79 15.4% 56 363 answered question skipped question 2

FROM THE TOP

4. How satisfied are you with the current Propeller magazine?

Response

Answer Options

Response

Count BY // MARK WHEELER, Percent APBA PRESIDENT 19.2% 69 Very satisfied Somewhat satisfied Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied Somewhat dissatisfied Very dissatisfied

33.6% 23.9% 15.0% 8.3% answered question skipped question

121 86 54 30 360 5

answered question skipped question

363 2

APBA PUBLICATIONS

posted on the APBA Web site.

3) For the first time, APBA will produce During May 2016, APBA conducted a survey a printed yearbook. All APBA members of our members. The main conclusion to be 5. Currently, Propeller magazine is published every month, 5 printed is that APBA mailed from issuesthe andsurvey 7 that are online only. members How satisfied are youwill receive a copy of the yearbook at the anddrawn with this cycle? end of each racing year. Along with many are ready for a change in APBA publications.

Response Response photos, the information contained in this ThereOptions are three parts to the change: Percent Answer Count 12.1% 44 yearbook will include results for national Very satisfied 1) Propeller will become a bimonthly 21.7% 79 championship regattas, national high Somewhat satisfied 110 Neitherpublication. satisfied nor dissatisfied A hard copy of all six30.2% issues Hall of Champions, the Honor 36.0% 131 points, the Very dissatisfied 33.3% 121 Satisfied will be mailed to all APBA members.

Each 364 answered question 22.0% 80 Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied Squadron, and the Strang award.

The question 1 8.3% 30 Dissatisfied issue will also appear on theskipped APBA Web yearbookVery willDissatisfied be a print-only publication.

7.2% 26 - I am not for it site. This change increases the number of answered question 363 6. If an annual APBA Yearbook was provided at no charge, would you skipped question 2 These changes are being made at no to receive online only issues be willing print issuesfewer of Propeller from fiveoftoPropeller six. magazine? additional cost to APBA members.

Response 9. Would you like a newsletter emailed to you or mailed?

Answer 2) IOptions n the months that PropellerResponse is Percent Count The results Answer of the survey appear below. Please Response Response notwould published, an 128 Yes - that be great APBA will send35.3% Options photo by Robert Percent Count Koschka 26.2% 95 Interested take a moment to review them. As always, e-newsletter. This newsletter will be 22.0% 80 Not sure 67.3% 239 Email would be fine 16.5% 60 No - I want more Propeller 32.7% 116 be mailed your input isMust welcome. emailed to APBA members, and also 7. How would you feel if the online only Propeller magazines were replaced with newsletters?

Response Response Percent Count 36.8% 132 Pleased 32.3% 116 Indifferent 30.9% 111 Not happy - I want Propeller magazine 359 answered question skipped question 6 Answer Options

8. APBA is currently looking into producing a high quality annual Yearbook, which together with monthly newsletters, would replace the online only issues of Propeller. An additional issue of Propeller would also be printed. How do you feel about this tradeoff?

Answer Options Very satisfied - I am all for it Satisfied Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied - I am not for it

answered question skipped question

355 10

10. Rate your satisfaction if APBA changed from the current format of five (5) printed and seven (7) online only issues of Propeller to six (6) printed issues of Propeller, six (6) newsletters and an annual APBA Yearbook at no additional cost to members.

Answer Options Yes - Change It No - Leave it the way it is Does not matter

Response Response Percent Count 65.9% 238 12.5% 45 21.6% 78 361 answered question skipped question 4

Response Response Percent Count 29.2% 106 33.3% 121 22.0% 80 8.3% 30 7.2% 26 363 answered question skipped question 2

9. Would you like a newsletter emailed to you or mailed?

Answer Options Email would be fine Must be mailed

Response Response Percent Count 67.3% 239 32.7% 116 355 answered question skipped question 10

10. Rate your satisfaction if APBA changed from the current format of five (5) printed and seven (7) online only issues of Propeller to six (6) printed issues of Propeller, six (6) newsletters and an annual APBA Yearbook at no additional cost to members.

Answer Options

Response

Response

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first win Valerie D’Agostino wrote: The January 2016 Propeller magazine featured Steven Kohlenstein and me at our boat racing wedding.

George Luce built us an 850MR and gave us his motor, as Steve did not have a rig, and he knew how deep-rooted boat racing is in my family.

This is Steve’s first season as an APBA member and he just won his first race in Tabor City, NC in May. Here is Steve’s story.

What did you think of the D’Agostino family’s obsession with racing? I thought it was unique and interesting. Val and Matt are very into it; but I’ll sit in a tree all day in below-freezing temperatures looking for a deer, so I could understand their level of obsession. Family is important to me, and one of the great aspects of the sport is that it brings family and friends together.

Steve, were you even aware of boat racing before you met Val? I was not. It first came up in one of our Finance classes at Towson when I met Val. I will say it provided intrigue to get to know her.

What was it like to learn how to drive?

I still have a lot to learn, but it’s been challenging and fun. I’ve received a lot of great advice from Val’s father, Matt D’Agostino.

I see him as one of the best What do you like about (L-R) Steve, Jerry Davids, and we’ve talked a lot about going to races? It’s the George Luce. strategy, course layout, rules, people. I’m always amazed boat setup, and everything in at how generous the boat between. Val has also taught racing community is—most me a great deal. We’ve been of all, George Luce and Jerry together for six years; so I’ve Davids. I would not be racing spent a lot of time watching if it wasn’t for these two guys. races, and learned a lot from George started it all when he simply observing. This spring gave Val and me the boat and George Luce also made an motor as a wedding present unbelievable effort to come in September. I’m not sure down to Maryland in cold if we or our wedding guests Val, Steve, Matt and the 850. were more surprised once and rainy April weather so D’Agostino photos that I could get some test George pulled the cover off the time in before the first race. Jerry Davids has beautiful two-toned (purple and camouflage) also taken laps on test days with me, to get 750/850 Mod Runabout sitting in the pool. better at running with other boats. Learning Jerry Davids has spent countless hours is figuring out what you don’t know, so I’ve working on my motor, fixing problems and gained a lot of respect over the last few making improvements. The fact that both of months. these guys are competitors and have been so generous to help me succeed is incredible. I’ve What was the moment when you got always enjoyed going to races spending time hooked on racing? My first race in Jesup, with the boat racing community; now having GA, second heat. I decided I was going to get the opportunity to be part of that community a good start on the inside and just try to keep and share in their experiences is really special.

Were you into fast cars, motorcycles, etc.? Yes, I’ve always enjoyed fast cars, dirt bikes, and boating. I see boat racing as a combination of the three. Growing up, I enjoyed working on engines and making things faster. A good car race was never out of the question. When I met Val I had a pretty fast Mustang; I’m sure she connected some dots at that point.

Do you have a competitive streak? I used to think I was very competitive until I met Val. She takes it to another level. But we both like to compete and motivate each other in a lot of different aspects of life.

Do you two have to race different classes so you don’t compete with each other?

We’ve actually been asked this a lot. It’s funny, because having met in college while pursuing the same major, and later working for the same firm, we have already had to compete a lot in school and in business, so we handle it well. Having Val race any of my classes is not a good thing for me, however.

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up. Coming into the first turn, I was neck and neck with Jerry Davids, and on the inside. As Jerry started to turn I realized I hadn’t made a turn going anywhere near this fast before but I knew if I didn’t I would be going right through Jerry’s brand new boat. I eased the throttle, set the fin, turned the wheel, and sure enough the beautifully built Luce boat ran smoothly through the turn. It was the most amazing feeling as I looked over, still side by side with Jerry, and hit the throttle coming out of the turn. I knew at that moment my interest in boat racing had been changed forever.

Steven Kohlenstein marries into the sport and passes the dunk test in Tabor City.

Top, Steve Kohlenstein gets dunked for his first win as Val and Matt D’Agostino watch.

Below, Steve (16E) is deck-to-deck with Jerry Davids in 850 Mod Runabout. Photos by Kristyn Bennett // 5

WINTERNATIONALS GO BY // KYLE BAHL • PHOTOS BY GLEASON RACING PHOTOGRAPHY

J. Michael Kelly and Ken McMurphy duel in CSH. Photo by Gleason Racing Photography On April 30/May 1, Seattle Outboard Association hosted the first Western Stock Winternationals at Silver Lake Resort in the shadow of Mt. St. Helen’s near Castle Rock, WA. This newer version of the Winternationls felt like the Winternationals of old, with beautiful weather and lots of boats!

Comfortable 75-degree weather with little wind (the opposite of a typical Washington State April) met over 100 entries each day. A combination of J, Stock, Mod, and PRO entries included the 45SS tunnels for the first time at the Mt. St. Helen’s Regatta.

Three classes brought enough boats for a Western Stock Winternational, and they did not disappoint. CSH and 20SSH had 16 entries each, with CSR having 8 boats.

CSH came down to two names you may have heard before—J. Michael Kelly and Kyle Lewis. Both drivers swept through their elimination heats to face off in the two-heat final. In the first heat it was J. Michael taking

the win with Lewis right on his tail. In heat two both dueled it out again, this time Kyle Lewis coming up with the win. Both were now tied in points; it would come down to time.

The race committee let the drama sink in for the rest of the day and did not announce the winner until the trophy presentation that evening. The winner? Kyle Lewis by mere seconds. JMK finished 2nd, with Aaron Adams in 3rd.

20SSH was less dramatic; J. Michael Kelly swept his two elimination heats and both final heats to take the win. Ken McMurphy took the other elimination heat win, but could not propel that into the final, finishing 7th.

Second place in the final went to 17-yearold (and recently named 1st team all-Wesco district in high school soccer) Johnny Adams.

Third place went to the veteran Aaron Peterson.

Last but not least was CSR. Kyle Lewis took his second Western

Brent Hall and Michael Harmon brought the 45SS class to the water.

Photo by Gleason Racing Photography

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Winternational victory of the day by sweeping both heats over Kyle Bahl (2nd) and Zach Malhiot (3rd).

Thank you to Silver Lake Resort for hosting SOA and letting us use your beautiful place of business for our races. Your dedication to us has been a blessing. Thank you to the race committee (Allen Thorsen, Denise Johnson, Sheryl Rucker, Jim Nilsen, Dave Salmon, and Steve Greaves) for their hard work over the weekend. Also thank you to our rescue crew Brit Mercer and David Dodge, Don Jones and Skip Horngren for volunteering all weekend, Colin and Ashley Rucker, and the rest of the volunteers that help make this race possible.

See full results at www.apba.org/races/2016mount-st-helens-regatta-8072/results

WEST

In CSR, Kyle Lewis took the Winternational title over Kyle Bahl and Zach Malhiot. Photo by Gleason Racing Photography

20SSH racers Aaron Salmon and Nicole Dunlap got their game face on.

Photo by Gleason Racing Photography

// 7

SUITED FOR SAFETY BY // DON (ELI) WHITNEY, APBA SAFETY COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN As I contemplate this missive in mid-May here in Michigan, thoughts of summer sunshine, boat racing, and boat racers are on my mind, as I try to ward off the reality of the day: 35° to 45°, rain, snowflakes, and windchill. (Here we have two-season weather—fall and winter; spring is in hiding, and summer is not in sight!) Those rays of sun would make a difference today, but we need some protection from those rays. There are two types: UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the

sunscreen on exposed skin, wear hats, and seek shade,.

Enter SUNCREEN. Apply early and often (like voting in Chicago). There are a lot of choices out there, and the medical profession recommends a broad spectrum type to protect against both UVB and UVA rays.

The SPF number is what most of us use to make a selection. What is the SPF number anyway? It stands for Sun Protection Factor, a number that loosely indicates how much of the UVB rays are blocked from your skin; the higher the number, the better for you. A minimum of SPF 15 is recommended by those same medical professionals.

Fair-skinned and fair-haired?

Get sunburned often? Think higher SPF number, like SPF 1. Use sunscreen.

2. Wear a hat.

thickest layer of the skin, causing wrinkling and premature skin aging. UVB rays tend to burn the outer layers of skin, but over time can increase the risk of skin cancer.

Sunburn: Unfortunately, it can be more than a simple “Ouch” and some red skin. Long-term exposure can lead to serious health concerns well beyond the burn. How to protect ourselves? Just to mention three ways: use

30, 40 or 50. The effectiveness of SPF numbers higher than 50 is being debated by the industry and regulators.

Internet; plenty of information is available.

Remember to reapply, too. Yeah, it sez it doesn’t wash off, but remember, as boat racers we are often in the water, getting in a boat, holding a boat, retrieving a boat. Even if you don’t get wet, you are outside all day, going from ohdarkthirty to pretty close to sunset—a long day. Reapplying every two hours is best. The water environment we operate in is also reflective. Risk of burn is increased substantially, as you catch rays from above and below. So, put that sunscreen on everywhere!

Got less hair than last year? A hat works pretty well to shade the old noggin. In fact, even with a full head of hair, that hat is effective when the sun rays are very direct (which is most every summer day!).

Shade works really well to protect you from the sun; plus it’s cooler there, too, and makes for a nice break when you are working hard.

This is really important for the kids, as they often need protection from themselves!

Want to know more? Look it up on the

3. Seek shade.

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RACE CALENDAR REGION 1 7/9-10 COA Annual Thompson Regatta, Thompson, CT 8/28 Fall River, MA Grand Prix - Mount Hope Bay 9/24-25 10th Annual Kingston, NH Fall Classic

PRO, Mod, Stock, J Offshore PRO, Stock, J

REGION 2 9/16-18 20th Annual Crystal Lake Regatta, Redwood, NY

9/10-11 Wild Ones Regatta, Grass Lake, MI Stock, J 9/17-18 Mecosta County Regatta, Big Rapids, MI - Muskegon River Stock, J 9/24-25 New Martinsville Records & Regatta Challenge

Duffy, OH - Ohio River SE, Inboard, PRO, Mod, Stock, OPC

Mod, Stock, J

REGION 3 6/25-26 Berwick, PA Area Regatta - Susquehanna River 9/3-5 Lock Haven, PA Labor Day Regatta 9/10-11 Daniel J Murphy Jr Memorial Regatta, Mays Landing, NJ 9/17-18 New Jersey State Championships, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 9/25 Lake Hopatcong Grand Prix, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 10/8-9 Millville, NJ Regatta - Laurel Lake

Mod, Stock, J PRO, Mod, Stock, J Inboard Inboard Offshore Mod, Stock, J

REGION 4 7/23-24 POWERBOAT NATIONALS - Grand Prix of West Virginia

Huntington, WV - Ohio River OPC 7/30-31 Southern Maryland Boat Club Summer Regatta

Leonardtown, MD - Breton Bay SE 8/2-6 Hinton, WV 2016 Stock, Mod, and Junior Nationals Mod, Stock, J 8/6-7 POWERBOAT NATIONALS - The Constellium Ohio River Grand Prix

Ravenswood, WV - Ohio River OPC 8/6-7 Hampton, VA Cup Regatta - Mill Creek Inboard 9/2-4 Wheeling, WV Vintage Raceboat Regatta SE 10/9 Ocean City, MD Grand Prix Offshore

REGION 7 6/25-26 Rock Falls River Chase, Rock Falls , IL - Rock River 7/2-3 Madison Regatta, Inc., Madison, IN - Ohio River 8/13-14 POWERBOAT NATIONALS - Grand Prix of Indiana

Rising Sun, IN - Ohio River 8/20-21 Thunder on the Rock, Beloit , WI - Rock River 9/3-4 Shake the Lake, Oshkosh, WI - Lake Winnebago 9/17-18 Madison Vintage Thunder, Madison, IN - Ohio River

Mod, Stock, J Inboard, Unlimited OPC PRO, Mod, Stock, J PRO, Mod, Stock, J SE

REGION 8 7/30-31 Serpent Lake Powerboat Races, Crosby, MN - Serpent Lake 9/10-11 Ron Baker Sr. Regatta, Forest Lake, MN

OPC OPC

REGION 9 9/3-5

POWERBOAT NATIONALS - Grand Prix of Louisiana - OPC Nationals Shreveport, LA - Red River

OPC

REGION 10

6/25-26 Cullaby Lake Regatta - Western J Divisionals REGION 5

Warrenton, OR - Cullaby Lake PRO, Mod, Stock, J 7/2-3 Sarasota, FL Powerboat Grand Prix Offshore 6/26 Rooster Crow, Rogue River, OR Rogue River SE 10/15-16 2016 Fall Jesup, GA - Lake Lindsay Grace PRO, Mod, Stock, J 7/3 Lower Rogue Outboard Challenge, Gold Beach, OR - Rogue River SE 11/18-20 Tavares, FL Fall Thunder Regatta SE 7/9-10 Black Lake Regatta, Olympia, WA - Black Lake SE, Inboard, IE, J 11/19-20 Englewood Beach, FL Waterfest/OPA Worlds Offshore 7/29-31 HAPO Columbia Cup, Kennewick, WA SE, Inboard, Unlimited REGION 6 7/30 Back to the 50s, Grants Pass, OR - Rogue River SE 7/9-10 Marietta, OH Riverfront Roar Inboard, OPC 8/13-14 Hydros for Heroes, Oak Harbor , WA SE, Inboard, IE, OPC, J 7/9-10 Wet & Wild Regatta, Grass Lake, MI Stock, J 8/20-21 Smilin George Memorial Regatta 7/10 Detroit River International Powerboat Championships Offshore

Eatonville, WA - Silver Lake PRO, Mod, Stock, J 7/16-17 66th Annual PNC Roar on the River Presented by Trenton Rotary Club 9/5 Labor Day Regatta, Grants Pass, OR - Rogue River SE

Trenton , MI - Trenton Channel - Detroit River Stock, OPC, Tcats, J 9/24-25 Norm Evans Memorial Apple Cup 7/23-24 Quake on the Lake 17, Waterford, MI - Pontiac Lake Inboard

Manson, WA - Lake Chelan SE, Inboard, IE, OPC 7/31 St Clair River Classic, St Clair, MI Offshore 10/1-2 Rockey Stone Memorial Kilo and John Meyers Memorial Quarter Mile

Lincoln City, OR - Devils Lake SE, Inboard, IE, PRO, Mod, Stock, OPC, J 8/13-14 Top O Michigan Marathon Nationals, Indian River, MI Stock, Tcats, J 8/14 International Powerboat Race, Port Huron, MI - St Clair River Offshore REGION 11 8/20-21 Kittanning Riverbration, Kittanning, PA - Allegheny River Mod, Stock, J 7/9-10 Hoopa, CA Mothers Day Race Trinity River Outboard Challenge SE 8/26-28 UAW-GM Spirit of Detroit Thunderfest, Detroit, MI Inboard, OPC, Unlimited 8/13-14 No Cheating! Copperopolis, CA 8/26-27 Portsmouth, OH Challenge OPC

Salt Springs Reservoir Inboard, PRO, Mod, Stock, OPC, J 8/27-28 Great American Outboard Race- Dayton Record Runs Regatta 9/30-10/2 Delta Thunder VII, Antioch, CA - San Joaquin River SE, Inboard, IE, Stock, OPC

Dayton, OH - Hydroglobe Mod, Stock, J 10/15-16 3rd Mossdale Quarry Regatta, Lathrop, CA Inboard, PRO, Mod, Stock, OPC, J 10/29-30 Lake Minden Halloween Fest and Bonus Points Event

Nicolaus, CA - Lake Minden SE, Inboard, PRO, Mod, Stock, J

REGION 14 7/1-3

2016 APBA PRO National Championships Kingston, TN - Watts Bar Lake

PRO, Mod, J

// 9

How to cool off after a hard day of racing...

Nathan Pittman gets dunked for his first win, in J Runabout. F. Peirce Williams photo

’SUP, JESUP?

2016 Stock/Mod Winternationals April 22-23 in Jesup, Georgia MODIFIED OUTBOARD 200CCMR DAVID BENNETT CARL HOLT ANDY HANSEN 250CCMR EDWARD HEARN TIM SIDOR SPENCER DAVIDSON 350CCMR RICK MILLER BRAXTON MILLER CHARLIE BLACKWOOD 500CCMR GEORGE LUCE BRAXTON MILLER JASEN DIRCKSEN 750CCMR JERRY DAVIDS SR STEVEN KOHLENSTEIN 850CCMR GEORGE LUCE SHAWN WEBER BRIAN PALMQUIST 200CCMH ANDY HANSEN ABBY POND CARL HOLT

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250CCMH SPENCER DAVIDSON TIM SIDOR MICHAEL THIERFELDER 350CCMH JOHN W MAUCK RICK MILLER MICHAEL THIERFELDER 400CCMH RICK MILLER MICHAEL THIERFELDER BRAXTON MILLER 500CCMH SCOTT CLARK ERIC P VANOVER BRAXTON MILLER 750CCMH V ERIC P ANOVER JASEN DIRCKSEN BRIAN PALMQUIST 850CCMH AUSTIN VANOVER JASEN DIRCKSEN HUNTER GRIMES IV

STOCK OUTBOARD CSR JESSE SWAIN R C HAWIE CHRISTOPHER FABBRO 25SSR THOMAS NUCCIO SPENCER DAVIDSON CHARLES ZOLKOSKE 300SSH JEFF BREWSTER MIKEY PAVLICK MAC PFALZER CSH JOE PATER DANA HOLT MATT D’AGOSTINO 20SSH DANA HOLT JOE PATER MIKEY PAVLICK

JUNIOR CLASSES (regular points) J CLASS R NATHAN PITTMAN ELIJAH CAMPBELL NATHAN KOWALSKI J CLASS H (SAT. / SUN.) ELIJAH CAMPBELL SAM TENNELL SAM TENNELL ELIJAH CAMPBELL NATHAN KOWALSKI SERENA DURR AXR (BOTH DAYS) KELSEY BENNETT RYLAN CHEW ELIJAH CAMPBELL AXH (BOTH DAYS) RYLAN CHEW NOAH ROMBERG ELIJAH CAMPBELL For results from all classes, visit www.apba.org/node/7999/results

Rick Miller took home titles in 350 Mod Runabout and 400 Mod Hydro. F. Peirce Williams photo

Great weather and intense competition in Jesup. F. Peirce Williams photo

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OMG- My heart has stoppedDo you own it?

From top: Gene Lanham in the driver’s seat beside his son Doug; RED BIRD running strong at Tavares, Florida; bottom, L-R: RED BIRD’s pipes; Gene next to an engine; and the proud and happy boat owners.

ROOSTER-TALES: THE 12 \ \

BY // TED BOYD It all started innocently—a simple email I opened when I returned from having dinner on my birthday. I had been given the opportunity to purchase an iconic Switzer Wing to restore from a private collector.

and the 1971 APBA National Marathon Championship, where she was “overall” and “T“ Class winner.

Other notable racing accomplishments include a 6th place finish at the 1968 Parker Enduro, 1st Outboard at the 1968, 1971 and 1973 Gold Coast marathons, and 14th place at the 1969 World Outboard Championships.

The boat had been in storage since 1974 when I quietly purchased it in April, 2015. I decided to totally restore the boat to look like the day it raced. My first email when I returned home to Canada was to Gene Lanham in Colorado. I attached a picture of just Red Bird’s name on the hull with the caption,

Love at first sight. The boat was an 18-foot 1967 Switzer Wing known in the racing world as “Red Bird” and owned and raced by the legendary Gene Lanham, a fireman from Miami, Florida.

”Gene—do you want to see the project I am working on now?”

In fact, Red Bird had a terrific racing career from 1968 to 1973. It all started with her first race, a 2-hour marathon at Pelican Harbor, which she won. Red Bird had at least 11 race and marathon wins during her racing career, including the 1970 Gold Coast Marathon

It was decided that Red Bird would secretly be restored and unveiled as a mystery boat at the prestigious Spring Thunder Regatta hosted by the Classic Raceboat Association in March 2016 at Tavares, Florida. Even organizer Bill John was unaware of what the mystery boat was. The event marked the first time since about 1973 that four Switzer Wings ran together at one time.

Once off the trailer, the boat roared around the course.

Making its unveiling extra special for me, Gene Lanham, who had flown in from Colorado to see the boat again after all these years, sat in the original driver’s seat and was joined in the passenger seat by his son Doug Lanham.

Red Bird had returned.

Gene and Lonnie Todd had driven up and bought the boat directly from the Switzer factory at Crystal Lake, Illinois in November 1967.

Rigged at Lake X with the help of the legendary Bill Sirois, the boat had new Mercury 125 BP engines installed. Finally, it was time to hit the water. With Sirois in the driver’s seat and the Lake X Tower timer on, Red Bird ran around the Lake X endurance course, setting a new record.

The motors are 1969 Mercury 125 BP inline 6’s with stacker pipes. They are rated at 155 HP each, and running right and left 1:1 SSM drives.

To see Red Bird in action at Tavares, visit www. youtube.com/watch?v=UoYXq_jPC0M L-R: RED BIRD pre-restoration, and with a fleet of Switzer Wings at Tavares.

Within seconds I received a reply from Gene: “OMG- my heart has stoppedDo you own it?”

Since then, Gene Lanham and I have become good friends.

The paint and restoration was done by Perry Aabo, Holland River Marine. All rigging, mechanical work and engines were done by Steve Gervais at Riversports Marine. Both are in Holland Landing, Ontario, Canada.

RETURN OF RED BIRD // 13

NEWBERG HEATS UP BY // MIKE JOHNSON • PHOTOS BY DENISE JOHNSON

The rivers of the Pacific Northwest are timeless. They wind through gorges and valleys carved by the glaciers of the last Ice Age and subsequent floods. The Willamette meanders north from the Central Oregon Cascades into the cradle of Northwest immigration as it approaches Portland. It passes through a deep channel at Newberg.

And there we race.

The Newberg Memorial Weekend Boat Races are just as timeless as the river. Records show Newberg as a racing start or destination going back to 1902. The current APBA event started by the Newberg Boat Club held its 68th running at the end of May, featuring the 45SS Nationals for the second year in a row.

Once again, nine boats answered the call; three from California, six from Washington.

Saturday was a chance to warm up and test for Sunday’s Main Event with a couple of racing heats. RJ West from Manteca, CA took the win, with Aaron Salmon (subbing for Mike Kelly, who missed Newberg for the first time in memory) coming in second. Spencer Love, who rolled into the pits Saturday morning after an all-night drive from California with

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Spencer Wallach, was third.

Other Saturday racing saw Ken Zahn from Issaquah, WA win AXH, and Kierra Marquard from Puyallup, WA take AXR. Other Junior Class action saw Colten King of Kelso, WA get his first first (in his second race!) in JH, and Kierra’s brother Trey won JR. Steve Walde continued his friendly domination of Sport C. In the PRO classes, Allen Thorsen of Hillsboro OR subbed for a mending Jim Nilsen and won C Service Runabout (with a motor older than the race). OSY 400 saw the McMurphy boys take three of the top four places, with Ken from Happy Valley, OR the winner. Ryan Gowin from Kent, WA added another victory in KPRO. In Mod, Ken McMurphy was again the winner in 500ccMH. Bill Dingman from St. Helens, OR took both heats to win 750ccMH. In Stock classes, Kyle Bahl of Snohomish, WA took both 20SSH and CSH, and Kyle Lewis of Seattle prevailed in CSR. Bob Smiley from Kingston, WA won ASH. The local Novice C class was won

by David “Papa Fish” Salmon of Shoreline, WA. On Saturday night the Newberg Boat Club provided the traditional bonfire, one of many

amenities that make this race special. Every year, they amass a huge pile of wood to stoke the flames all three nights. Four boats met their end Viking-style; their long and storied pedigrees outlasted one round of beer.

Sunday brought another beautiful day, and the headline race—45SS Nationals. The first heat was won by RJ West, who took full advantage of the five laps to get around a very quick Daniel Korpe. Jeff Cannon from Lynnwood, WA followed in 3rd. After a flight change and trip to inspection, the second heat was underway. Korpe took off like a shot, while West struggled to get up to speed, actually spinning out in turn 1. RJ showed his experience again, patiently working his way through the pack. But he couldn’t catch Korpe, or get around Aaron Salmon. Meanwhile, referee Jim Nilsen was scrutinizing the iPad. The start had been close—too close; Korpe had jumped the gun and was penalized one minute. That gave the second heat win to Salmon, and the overall National Title to RJ West with a first and second. Korpe edged Cannon by 19 points for a hard-earned third place overall.

Brotherly love - Ken and Chuck McMurphy duel in OSY 400

RJ West and Jared Wallach negotiate the tight turn 2.

Kyle Squared - Bahl and Lewis renew their CSR battle.

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2016 POWERBOAT NATIONALS the “New Wave” in racing!

HTTP://WWW.POWERBOATNATIONALS.COM/

Experience the thrills of breathtaking, heart-pounding Championship Powerboat Racing in a city near you. Powerboat Nationals racing will be viewed by tens of thousands along rivers and lakeshores; by millions on national television; and worldwide on the internet.

Tunnel boats are the fastest turning, nimblest race boats in the world, reaching top speeds over 100 mph! Pilots take the turns full throttle, often incurring as many G-forces as Indy Car drivers. Whether on a lake or river, the race course is ever-changing with each new wave. These powerboats literally fly on water!

P​ owerboat Nationals work with most APBA-approved race teams and host cities to secure tour dates throughout the United States. Come cheer on professional race teams as they compete for championship titles.

During the APBA National Meeting, Powerboat Nationals entered a bid to host the OPC Nationals in Shreveport, Louisiana. The OPC Commission unanimously voted to approve Shreveport as the Host City for 2016. The dates were set for Labor Day Weekend, September 3-5, with testing on Friday, September 2nd. Racing will take place in downtown Shreveport on the Red River, between the Boardwalk of Bossier City and the casinolined shores of Shreveport. The Hilton and Holiday Inn in downtown Shreveport will be the host hotels.

T​ he Powerboat Nationals series offers intense competition and a high level of professionalism, providing a “New Wave” of entertainment for all ages!

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Here’s the schedule: July 23-24: Grand Prix of West Virginia Huntington, West Virginia SST120 and SST60 - North American Championship SST45, Super Sport August 6-7: The Constellium Ohio River Grand Prix Presented by Constellium, Ravenswood, West Virginia SST120 and SST60 Northeast Divisional Super Sport August 13-14: Grand Prix of Indiana Rising Sun, Indiana SST120 Intergalactic Championship SST200 and SST45 North American Championship SST60, Super Sport September 2 - 5: Grand Prix of Louisiana OPC National Championships Shreveport, Louisiana Mod U , Formula 1, Formula 150 , SST200, SST120 , SST60, SST45, Sport C - National Championship

SST120 racers Mark Proffitt, Tracy Hawkins, Johnny Fleming and Jeff Shepherd show the speed and power of tunnel boats. F. Peirce Williams photo // 17

WHEN IS IT TIME TO RACE? A good start is the key to success James Holter wrote in “Kids & Dirtbikes: A Perfect Combination” on the American Motorcyclist Association website www.americanmotorcyclist. com about the natural desire to pass on the love of our sport to our kids.

Boat racers understand that instantly, of course. Most racers grew up in racing families. The racing community becomes your extended family.

From infancy, kids go to races most weekends during the racing season.

In the off-season, boats, engines and parts are being worked on in the garage, in the back yard or basement; sometimes in the living room. A great Christmas is one that delivers new race gear under the tree. Racing is a lifestyle.

So—you love racing. You love driving,working on the boat, helping at the races, hanging out with your fellow racers. You enjoy winning, but have learned to be a gracious loser. And you want your kids to have that same great experience.

Kids can get started in APBA racing at age nine, in J Hydro and J Runabout. The combination of boat and motor keeps speeds moderate.

J racing is a learning experience, not NASCAR. Many parents start the countdown from the moment their little future racer is born. “In nine years, we will have another J racer…”

Our enthusiasm should be tempered by sensitivity to the individual child. Some 9-year-olds prefer reading books, or playing with dolls, or playing soccer or softball. Pay attention to what really lights up your child. Is she genuinely interested in racing, or just trying to please you?

Is he physically coordinated? Is she emotionally mature enough to take some lumps and losses? Can he take the discipline of safety rules and course etiquette, and respect race officials? Is she willing to help set up the boat, carry equipment, make sure that she’s got all her safety equipment and that it fits well?

For some kids, a delay of a year or two might make all the difference in physical and mental preparation. Your 9-year-old with impulse control issues or poor coordination may grow into a skilled, stable racer by age 10 or 12. Give it time.

Just growing big and heavy enough to get a boat on plane, with strong enough hands to throttle and steer it, may take awhile. Pay attention to your child’s coordination, reflexes and concentration in other situations—bike riding, games, interacting with others, etc. Does he 18 \ \

run into things? Drop the ball a lot? Lose his temper? Sneer at safety rules? Maybe you want to wait to put this person in a boat, sharing a racecourse with others and navigating around buoys.

Don’t force your sport on someone who isn’t ready to race, or is just not excited about it. (Hard to imagine, but there are such people.) The consequence will be an unhappy kid and a frustrated parent.

Just listen. If and when your child is ready to race, you’ll know. And then you can share the great adventure of racing.

Then, it will be your job to train the new racer for safe, fun competition.

Go over all the safety equipment; help her put it on and take it off; make sure she can manage the zippers and buckles. Make sure the helmet fits securely. Do a float test so he can experience that secure feeling when the lifejacket floats him face-up. Go over what to do if the boat flips; the hand signals to rescue crews should be second nature before the first race. Teach respect for propellers; they are very sharp.

Get in some seat time together so you can coach your young racer for varying conditions.

Show ’em. Demonstrate how to drive safely, then let your kid take the wheel and see how she does. Praise her for a good run; offer constructive criticism if needed. If he jumps the gun or flips, don’t make a big deal of it. Help him dry out and let him know it happens to everyone. Point out that the helmet, jacket and Kevlars protected him throughout, even if it was a shock and the water was cold. Encourage him to get back into the boat as soon as possible, but don’t force it. Let the allure of the racecourse overcome fear.

Show your J racer the basics of engine maintenance. You will have the primary mechanical responsibility, but it’s a good idea for the driver to learn to start up, and listen to, the engine.

Finally, you will teach by example. You will show how to compete your hardest and accept wins and losses graciously. You will demonstrate the importance of safety, and the rewards of volunteering to help out at races. You will demonstrate gratitude and respect for the race officials, and responsibility in leaving the race site better than you found it.

If all goes well, you may have a gung-ho racer—and possible competitor—in your family.

J Hydro driver Jack Peterson enjoying the racing world at Sammamish Slough, Washington. Photo by Gleason Racing Photography

A perfect start: J Hydro racing at LaPorte, Indiana.

Photo by Paul Kemiel Photographics

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CATEGORY CORNER STOCK OUTBOARD BY // JEFF BREWSTER, STOCK OUTBOARD CHAIRMAN Our sealed engine spec class, 300 Super Stock, continues to grow. This continues for many reasons, but today I will focus on one special person who has made this all happen. In the beginning, the class was simply an idea that sounded great. At an APBA national meeting one evening, after a long day of meetings, I pulled together some great people in a cramped hotel room to discuss how we could make this happen.

In this group was Tom Johnston, known to many simply as “TJ”.

I have known TJ for as long as I can remember. He used to race against my father back in the day of the 20H Mercury powered hydros, and I love to remind him occasionally that he started racing the same year I was born—in 1962. As a kid running the 20 Hydro class against him, I always thought it was so cool to race against such a veteran of our sport.

As many know Tom, he has been a constant force behind our Yamato classes for years— not only through his experience, but his helping hand that is always there for so many in our sport.

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One of my first questions to the group was how to accomplish the task of sealing these engines. Tom had a smile on his face that evening and, with his note pad in his hand, he began to explain what he already had down on paper.

That evening, little did we know that the process of sealing would be one of the easier mountains we would climb. So many issues have come before the entire 300SSH committee over the years, and somehow we have been able to tackle each issue and keep driving forward. Most of which Tom has made easy for us, having a ready answer as he did that evening back in frozen Chicago.

By the time this article goes to print we will be closing in on sixty engines in the class, and Tom has sealed every one of them, except for the engines he has purchased for himself. Those engines were sealed for us by Ric Montoya to keep the process fair.

Tom was perfect for this job, due to having the shop with all tools necessary—and better yet, the parts and knowledge about how to make it all happen.

In the first year of planning the class, we quickly realized that just sealing an engine was only the beginning of what was needed to make the class fair. TJ checks each gear foot to make sure each is within our tolerances; hones the cylinders; adds new rings, kill switch and mag plate locks. He checks the exhaust manifold for flatness, sets the reeds, carburetor and timing all the same before they leave the shop. With all of the disassembly and reassembly involved, this has made for some really late nights in the shop.

Much like Geppetto working tirelessly in his shop to create wooden puppets, Tom has brought something new to life. He continues on for the love of the sport that he has endless passion for. Without him, none of this would ever have been possible.

On behalf of many of us, thank you, Tom. —Jeff Brewster Clockwise from top left: The 321 gearfoot and powerhead, TJ himself, and completed 321 engines.

JUNIOR CLASSES

BY // PATRICK GLEASON, JUNIOR CLASSES COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN With racing season getting ramped up all over the country, It’s great to see the J classes running on many different race sanctions.

Our rules in J do allow for clubs to sanction multiple races on a single calendar day.

APBA J Rule 2.11 states, “It is permissible for the race committee to schedule and run two races for any class or classes it chooses on any single day so long as the same is published on the circular. However, if the race committee determines that inclement weather or other circumstances warrant, the second race may be cancelled by the race committee.”

The key part of this to remember is that the local club adheres to publishing this on the race circular.

There are times when circumstances may dictate that a planned two-day race may need to be run in a single day when time allows, such as if bad weather is coming. That second day of racing can be run on the first day, provided that there is a disclaimer regarding scheduling included on the race circular.

The same would be true if day one of a two-day event is blown out and the race committee wants to attempt to get two days’ worth of racing in on day two.

My recommendation to race organizers to allow racers to get as much racing in as possible on weekends where conditions may be an issue, is to be sure to including wording on their race circulars that states something along these lines: “The race committee reserves the right to run Sunday’s race on Saturday (or vice versa) should conditions require.’”

This way, your race is in compliance with the J rules regarding running two races in a single day.

Best of luck in 2016!

Taylor Brown driving J Runabout at Castle Rock, Washington. Photo by Gleason Racing Photography

// 21

Flyin’ 5 Litres at Richland, Washington. Julie Sparrowgrove photo

INBOARD

BY // MARK J. WEBER, INBOARD CHAIRMAN Congratulations to two race sites. First to Richland, WA—much work went into getting this race site back after many years off the race schedule. I received comments from many people that the race went well; and, with the decisions the Club has made, it has a bright future.

Richland, WA was also the site where the new West Coast School Boat had its first shakedown. Some small tuning and we will be ready for our first West Coast School in August. Having the boat on display was a huge hit with the fans. Let us know when and where we can display a school boat in your area.

Kudos to Waterford, MI – site of the 2016 Summer Nationals. Many of the details are being finalized for this year’s event. However, none is as special or important as this year’s Rainbow Connection Wish Child. Victoria is 17 years old and was diagnosed with leukemia in June of 2014. If you are at the Quake on the Lake this year, stop and say hello to Victoria, who will be at the drivers meeting. Many feel Waterford, MI is one of the best places to race; and yes, it is nice. However, in comparison, what this event does to give back is far greater than the cool and fun racing we get to participate in.

While we are very passionate about our beloved hobby (and yes, it is a hobby) check your ego at the pit entrance, because your battle on the race course—no matter if you win or lose—is nothing compared to the courageous battle that Victoria is winning.

On May 27, 2016, the Inboard Racing Commission sent the following rules for the new SA (Sportsman Advanced) Class, with an explanatory letter, to all APBA Inboard flatbottom owners. (Both were also sent to all APBA members in the SPIN e-newsletter) Class rules require GPS units, so the IRC is purchasing those and making them available at race sites.

These rules have been incorporated into the Inboard Racing Rules, now available for download from ww.apba.org.

RULE 56 - SPORTSMAN ADVANCED (SA) CLASS SA (Sportsman Advanced) Class is open to all hulls, capsule or noncapsule (open boats) that meet all the current APBA runabout hull rules (Appendix A) with a maximum speed of 105 MPH (with no tolerances). The 105 MPH maximum speed will be monitored with a GPS unit in each boat. Drivers of SA must be qualified in another runabout class.

QUALIFIED SA DRIVER REQUIREMENTS • All racers that have previously raced a minimum 10 heats or 4 races (whichever comes first) in SE (Sportsman Entry) class;

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and/or SS, PS and KRR, are automatically qualified for the new SA Class..

• If starting in the SA Class (Sportsman Advanced), driver must be appointed a mentor at the drivers meeting at all races to become a qualified driver. Mentors may change from race to race depending on racers’ schedules. This will be for a minimum of 10 heats or more if said referee deems necessary. Drivers will follow referee’s rookie qualifying rule procedures until SA qualifying is completed.

56.1 General Rules 56.1.1 Maximum speed 105 MPH without tolerances 56.1.2 A prop shaft release is mandatory 56.1.3 A GPS unit must be installed (out of the driver’s reach) before each run on the water (testing or racing). It will be the owner’s responsibility to see that it happens. The GPS will be installed and checked by the inspector of the event or his appointed representative. GPS readings will be included on the summary sheets.

56.1.4 Starts may be clock or flag starts. For flag starts, lanes will be drawn.

56.1.5 Because of the maximum speed, no competition or straightaway records will be attempted.

56.1.6 Minimum weight, including driver and safety equipment, will be 1900 lbs.

56.2 Hull Configuration 56.2.1 The hull must conform to the racing runabout hull requirements as specified in the technical manual for inspection of racing runabouts (Appendix A).

56.2.2 All fins shall be mounted between the chines on the underside of the boat.

56.3 Safety Equipment 56.3.1 Besides following all the APBA General Safety Rules for helmets and life jackets, it will be required for all open SA Boat drivers to wear a “Head and Neck Restraint” device. This device should not be confused with the current Helmet Restraints (tether and “D” rings) that are required by drivers in other classes. APBA will make no recommendation on which device to use at this time.

This decision lies solely on the driver.

56.3.2 All open boats require a kill switch.

56.4 Penalties for exceeding 105 MPH. 56.4.1 If it is found that a boat has exceeded the 105 MPH limit, for the first offense a one-minute penalty or last place for that heat and a $150.00 fine will be imposed (that money would go to the race committee of the event) to be paid before they can race again. A second offense would disqualify the boat and owner for the day.

56.4.2 Failure to have a GPS installed before testing or racing at an event: the boat will be disqualified for that heat.

For the 2016 racing season no APBA High Points will be awarded and the driver will not be eligible for the Hall of Champions.

Go fast, turn left and have FUN!

Braxton Miller, throttle down in 350 Mod Hydro at Jesup, GA. F. Peirce Williams photo

MODIFIED OUTBOARD BY // TOM SUTHERLAND, MODIFIED OUTBOARD CHAIRMAN Thank you to Peace River Outboard Racing Association (Howie Nichols and his father Pete) and many others for a successful Stock and Modified Outboard Winter Nationals. The long drive to Jesup was well worth it after a long, raceless winter.

Even though there were no Mod classes with eliminations, all Mod classes were represented.

Dave Bennett took the 200MR championship, while Andy Hansen from Wisconsin bested Abby Pond and Carl Holt to win 200MH. Oklahoma’s Rick Miller was the first double winner, taking titles in 350MR and 400MH. Tim Sidor put together two great starts to dominate 250MH for a championship, but fell short in 250MR, taking second to Ed Hearn.

John Mauck won 350MH, while Scott Clark returned to form to win the title in 500MH over a very competitive field.

This year’s second double winner was George Luce. George won in 500MR and 850MR. Jerry Davids was one of only two drivers to survive and score points in 750MR to become the champion. Austin VanOver continued where he left off in 2015 to become the 850MH Winter Nationals Champion, with his father Eric winning 750MH. As for the rest of us…maybe next time.

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IN PICTURES

SHOW US WHAT YOU GOT! SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT PROPELLER! 5 Litres racing hard at Richland, Washington.

Julie Sparrowgrove photo

At Richland, SE racers (below) and the S-83 (right) gets an unwelcome bump.

Julie Sparrowgrove photos

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Richland, Washington, rescue with teeth.

Julie Sparrowgrove photo

B Stock Hydro drivers Ryan Runne and Rob Dixon at Franklin, Pa. Garrett Kline photo

B Runabout driver Ed Hearn, cornering at Jesup, GA. F. Peirce Williams photo

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IT’S OFFICIAL!

Guntersville Back on H1 Unlimited Schedule BY // BRUCE MADEJ, H1 UNLIMITED In Guntersville, Ala ., in front of 100 county officials, fans, and media, Katy Norton announced that Lake Guntersville will once again host Unlimited hydroplanes. The H1 boats will run a test session in 2017 with a full-fledged national high point race in 2018.

“Ted Grange of H1 has been working tirelessly to add races to our schedule; and now with the help of Milt and Charley Wiggins, Mayor Leigh Dollar and Katy, one site is now on the books,” said H1 Chairman Steve David. “Guntersville, Alabama will see our sport next June 10th for a test session, and then return on June 21-24 in 2018 for an H1 Unlimited Hydroplane point race.”

Norton, President of the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Marshall County, made the announcement that Guntersville is ready and excited to bring Unlimited hydroplanes back. The Bureau believes the race could have an economic impact, delivering over 50,000 fans into Marshall County.

“I am excited we are taking our sport to another region of our country and to a segment of fans that love motorsports,” added David. “It also gives H1 another race east of the Mississippi, and before the traditional Madison race early in July.”

According to Charley Wiggins, Lake Guntersville is nearly perfect for the race.

“I was racing here in the ’80s...I’ve been to a lot of courses around the country, and this is some of the best water to race on,” he said.

The pits and HQ for the race will be near the Stockton Causeway.

The Wiggins Hydroplane Racing Team, based in Rainbow City, Ala., is owned by 60-plus year racing veteran Milton Wiggins and managed

by Crew Chief Charley Wiggins. Milton started his racing career when he was 16 years old in the PRO Category, and introduced his son Charley to race boat driving when he was 14 years old. Both drove in various classes with much success for many years.

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The Wiggins team joined the H1 circuit as an owner in 2015 with the U-27 Dalton Industries boat. Driver Cal Phipps piloted the boat to a third-place finish in the National High Point Championship, and the Wiggins team was named “Crew of the Year.”

“Our family has lived in Alabama for at least four generations, and we have been racing boats for seven decades,” said Charley. “We have a passion for our state and for racing, and want to show our fans these exciting racing machines and beautiful Lake Guntersville.”

Charley won his first race driving a 1 Litre hydro at Lake Guntersville in the mid-1980s when the Limited Inboards raced for the Dixie Cup. The first Unlimited Hydroplane Dixie Cup race was held in Guntersville in 1963. The small northern Alabama town traditionally hosted the Unlimited hydroplane season opener from 1963-69. The race was not run in 1967 or 1968.

Before the first race in 1963, Roy Duby drove George Simons’ Miss U.S. I Unlimited hydroplane to a world straightaway record for propeller-driven boats of 200.419 miles per hour. That was done April 17, 1962, on Guntersville Lake. It eclipsed the previous mark of 192.001 set by Bill Muncey in Miss Thriftway, Feb. 16, 1960.

“I don’t know if we will set any records,” said David. “I do know we will bring a great event to Guntersville.”

Beautiful Lake Guntersville.

Eric Atkins photo

The U-27 Dalton Industries piloted

by Cal Phipps and owned by Milton Wiggins. Photo from H1unlimited.com

// 27

REGION ROUNDUP

Jamie Nilsen driving 350cc Hydro at Castle Rock, Washington. Photo by Gleason Racing Photography REGION 3 April showers provide the hours to fine-tune race boats for May horsepower. Maybe that is not how the saying goes, but it is how we always spent spring in my house—and, it appears, in many others as well.

Facebook has been loaded with race teams making final tweaks and tunes—and even some videos of testing—as they prepare for the upcoming event in Stuart, Florida, and the circuit start up north at Cambridge, Maryland, and Region 3’s own Greenwood Lake, New Jersey.

The Greenwood Lake Committee (aka Jay Hardy) has been hard at work making last-minute touches to their event, the first weekend of June. Entries have been rolling in, and it will be great to see full fields in each class racing. I heard through the grapevine (all right, Facebook!) that there could be up to 20 Skiffs in attendance! Wouldn’t that be something? That would be the biggest fleet of Skiffs that I can remember. The GLPBA can’t wait to see everyone at the event.

The Lake Hopatcong Racing Association has been working hard to improve their event from 2015. The 2016 New Jersey State Powerboat Championships are slotted to return to Hopatcong State Park September 17-18. Recently, pictures of Ed and Ron Thompson’s E-1 and Tom Petterson’s JS-77 were seen at a block party at the Park to promote the event. From 10 AM - 5

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PM there were lines of children waiting for their turn to sit and “race” in the top-contending 5 Litre and the Eastern Divisional Champion Jersey Skiff. Many thanks to the Thompsons, John Shaw, and Juanita and Tom Petterson for providing their boats for the show. All four surrounding towns are ecstatic to have the event back on the lake!

With Stuart coming up, my newsfeed has been packed with pictures of boats! Team H8 Cancer has been putting in many long hours at the shop in Florida, and the boat just made the trek north for hardware installation at HAGE Tools. It will sure be great to see that boat on the water after all of the changes that the Kennedys have made to their new hull. Wayne Hagatha/John Shaw’s T-5 Trophy Hunter is sporting a new paint job this year as they race to try to reclaim the National Championship title. The Skiffs have been out in full force, testing in south Jersey this year. Rumor has it that Team Bazinga has found some more horsepower.

J&J Marine just posted that their new motor is ready to go. They are looking for a repeat of last year, with Jeff Clauss driving the SE-29. Last weekend, I saw the JS-77 Lap Dancer. A new motor will be ready for Stuart, with veteran driver Tom Pakradooni taking the wheel. I am sure that Tom intends to give the Skiff class a run for their money!

Team Pennzoil saw the publicity that Johnny Dooche

received on the Canadian circuit, and recently revealed that his alter ego Tom Huganir will be taking the wheel of the E-30, on a trial basis, for the 2016 season. Tom had an opportunity to spin some laps last year in Lake Hopatcong, and he sure did a great job of keeping it on the water! It was also mentioned that Tom needs to lose a few pounds in order to remain in the seat. If interested, you can follow his weight loss journey on Facebook.

The best news of all: there will be racing to talk about for the next few months! Make sure to check back to see all of the great accomplishments that Region 3 is racking up!

—Katelyn Shaw REGION 4 Many Region 4 members have had a good start to their 2016 racing season. Our members have traveled thousands of miles to support races, tuned their setup in the unending search for more speed and horsepower, and started to accumulate points.

Tom Pakradooni took his GP-88 Rolling Thunder to Stuart FL for the start of the Grand Prix circuit on the East Coast, and the beginning of the HRL season. Tom took a 6th and a 2nd to end up 3rd overall on the weekend. Thompson Brothers Racing took the E-1 back to Florida for the second time this year. Last year

their Stuart race weekend ended during Friday testing with a hole in the bottom of the hull. This year they completed all heats of racing with a 3rd, a 2nd and two 1st. Despite losing his lane in turn 1 of the final, driver John Shaw was able to hold on to a 2nd place finish in Sunday’s final. When he returned to the pits and got the boat hooked to the crane the team noticed some extensive damage to the bottom of the belly-pan just behind the escape hatch. The E-1 TM Special is already back up to Bert’s for repairs.

Next on the East Coast circuit was the first Inboard race of the season in Region 4. Cambridge, MD moved their date to Memorial Day weekend. Unfortunately, due to a prior commitment, I was unable to attend Saturday’s racing, but was back in the pits and itching to get in a race boat on Sunday. I understand that there was very close racing in the 1.5 Litre Stock class, and that the rest of the field put on a great show for the fans.

Three of the four T-Boats had a new look when they arrived in the pits for the weekend. Wayne Hagatha’s T-5 Trophy Hunter debuted its new paint scheme that weekend. Thanks to Ed Thompson and Thompson Brothers Racing, the boat was completely fixed up and freshly painted over the winter/spring. John Shaw drove the boat on Saturday to two 1st place finishes.

Matt Henning drove the boat on Sunday and took two 2nd place finishes. Sam Ewancio’s T-3.14 Irrational was completely reworked this winter by uncle Jimmie Stewart and family. New decks, a new paint job, and more were completed in time for the Cambridge race.

Sam had an issue during the Saturday qualifier leading to a DNF, but the team had it worked out for the rest of the weekend. Highlight of the weekend came during Sunday’s qualifier when Sam absolutely nailed the start and drove to her first-ever win! Mom Peg was waiting at the docks to provide Sam with her mandatory swim and long hug afterwards. Great job, Sam! Kevin Gunther’s T-16 Sporting Wood was also completely gone through this winter. Kevin and team also addressed a few issues and re-decked the boat. They did a sweet job; she looked great! Kevin drove to three 3rds and a 2nd on the weekend. Courtney Stewart’s T-720 Hangin’ Loose was the only T-boat with the same paint scheme and look as last year in the pits. She drove the oldest boat in the 1.5 Stock Fleet to two 4ths, a 2nd and a 1st.

Not bad for a boat over twice her age! Look for some close racing in this class this year. Three of the four boats that competed in Cambridge took home at least one heat victory!

The 1 Litre class had seven boats take to the course.

Valerie Wilson came out of retirement to drive her Y-54 Pink Panther. She took a 4th and a 7th, but had two unfortunate DNS’s. Chuck Miller wheeled Robert Weaver’s Y-563 Lobster Boat to a 2nd and a 5th, but also

had two DNS’s. Austin Price drove Paul Price’s Y-99 to a 4th, a 3rd and a 2nd place finish on the weekend. Ed Thompson’s new Y-35 TM Special took to the water for the first time in competition, and showed driver John Shaw that it could turn on a dime! Unfortunately, John did not want the boat to turn that sharp either time it decided to spin. John told Ed after the flat spin at the Start/Finish Line that his ride was over because he was out of quarters. A new boat always has some kinks to work out, and this time there was a major kink in the rudder! The most consistent boat in the class was Bob Wilson’s Y-80 Outlaw with Keith McMullen at the helm.

They took three of four victories in the class. J. Michael Kelly took the Sunday Final victory in Tim Collins Y-41 Shenanigans.

Doug Martin’s S-33 Keen’s Sunday Money took two 3rds and two 2nds for the weekend in a field of eight 2.5 Litre Stocks. Al Thompson was the class of the field with three 1st places.

The 5 Litre class only had two boats in Cambridge. Tom Pakradooni’s E-816 was driven by Keith McMullen to four 2nd place finishes. Tommy Huganir made his debut as full-time driver of dad John Huganir’s E-30 and swept the weekend.

Scott Liddycoat took his first laps in George Conover’s GNH-18 Magnum.

Many of us have become accustomed to seeing Savana Thompson sitting on the deck of whatever boat her dad Tom Thompson was driving to help him strap in.

In Cambridge we got to see Tom Thompson sit on the deck of Savana Thompson’s boat and help her get ready.

Savana got to take out Randy English’s A-7 for testing both Saturday and Sunday in her hometown. We also got to see Jacob Cheezum start his rookie heats in the A-7. He did a great job in a tough class, taking a 5th, 2nd and 3rd. Tom Thompson had some difficulties with Randy English’s A-52 on Saturday, which prevented that boat from competing the rest of the weekend.

Two National Mods came to race, and thanks to Mr. English, had two 2.5 Mod step-ups to gain national points. Greg Isaac’s NM-247 Blitzkrieg took home the victory, with Steve Kuhr doing the driving. Scott Liddycoat had some major issues in Ray Lynn’s E-30 Budget Buster Racing, and did not finish.

The SE class had four boats in Cambridge. Jeff Clauss was the class of the field with four victories in his SE-29 J&J Marine.

Tom Pakradooni, Brandon Kennedy, Marty Wolfe and Randy English had their Grand Prix ready to go. Well, almost... The difficulty was getting all four boats up and running in the same heat. On Sunday, Tom Thompson and Tom Pakradooni put on a great show for the fans

with deck-to-deck racing until something let go in the GP-525.

The largest field of the weekend by far was the Jersey Skiffs. They had 12 boats with some of the most experienced Skiff drivers, a few rookies and everyone in between. There were old boats, new boats, and some boats that haven’t seen water in a few years.

The Skiff class has rallied behind the JS-77 Lapdancer of Tom Petterson since the first race of the season.

This weekend Tom Pakradooni was the driver, and it was great to see Tom Petterson back in the boat as the rider. They had a perfect weekend with four 1st place finishes. Rob and Tim Presley took two 2nds, a 4th and a 7th in the JS-9 Kentucky Blue. Li’l Billy Sewell took a pair of 3rds, a 4th and a 5th as he continues to learn the ins and outs of his dad Billy Sewell’s JS-991 Stolen.

Keith and Kevin Gunther had some difficulties with their JS-23 Kryptonite on Saturday and picked up a 5th place on Sunday. Rocky Mangina, Gary Thompson, and Richard Fairhurst III all made their rookie debuts in Cambridge MD. As if Jimmie Stewart wasn’t busy enough this winter re-decking his niece Sam Ewancio’s T-boat, and working on his daughter’s T-boat and skiff, he felt the need to put together another skiff for him to race. Cambridge was the first race weekend for the JS10 in many years. Jimmie and longtime teammate Fred Zbranak worked to get Fred’s JS-10 Yumpin’ Yimminy back into racing form. Jimmie and sister Peg Ewancio took a 4th and 6th in their first weekend in the boat.

With my coaching commitment at the Maryland Track and Field State Championships on Saturday, Abigail Stewart strapped into the riding mechanic seat next to sister Courtney Stewart in the JS-1 Goin’ Skiffin’ Crazy.

Unfortunately for me, Abigail liked the ride and kept threatening to beat me up on Sunday so she could ride again. I think most of the pits were surprised that the two sisters didn’t kill each other while riding together.

A few special awards were given out after Sunday’s racing. With no Kent Island race being held this year, the Kent Narrows Racing Association asked the Cambridge Committee if they could give their special awards at the Cambridge race. Cambridge agreed and Wheeler Baker presented the KNRA awards, based on Saturday’s performance. Congratulation to Tom Petterson on winning the Paul Sohn Memorial Award for winning the Saturday Final with Tom Pakradooni at the wheel. It was great to see Tom Petterson win the award, considering Paul’s daughter Brittany used to ride with Tom a few years ago. The Jim Curtis Memorial Award went to Jeff Clauss, who won the SE Final on Saturday. The final KNRA Award was the Alton Pierson Outstanding Performance Award, which went to Al Thompson. Next the Cambridge club presented their special awards.

Al Thompson took home the Nathan Foundation

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Performance Index Award for being the boat closest to the record. Tom Pakradooni in his GP-88 Rolling Thunder won the Skeeter Johnson Memorial Award.

Many Region 4 boats traveled north to support the Greenwood Lake race the next weekend. Doug Martin ran well in the 2.5 Stock class against his usual opponents. Scott Liddycoat took out George Conover’s GNH-18 for some more test laps.

John Shaw, driving the new Thompson Brothers Racing Y-35, swept the weekend. Richard Shaw took 2nd place overall, driving TBR’s 2nd hull. Keith McMullen took 3rd overall and had some great battles lap after lap with John in the Y-35. Kevin Gunther got his first taste of 1 Litre racing driving the Y-444 Clam Digger for Jim Davis and did a great job!

All four 1.5 Stocks hailed from Region 4. John Shaw and Matt Henning teamed up to drive Wayne Hagatha’s T-5 Trophy Hunter to a clean sweep of the weekend.

Kevin Gunther’s T-16 Sporting Wood came to life on Sunday with a borrowed prop from Bob Wilson. Cousins Courtney Stewart and Sam Ewancio had some great deck-to-deck racing.

It is rare at today’s races to have two elimination heats in order to qualify for the final. The Jersey Speed Skiff class had to have three elimination heats at Greenwood Lake! Li’l Billy Sewell and his rider Lauren Brown ran toward the front of the pack in Big Billy’s JS-991 Stolen.

Keith and Kevin Gunther keep dialing in their JS-23 Kryptonite. Jimmie Stewart and Peg Ewancio showed the field that their new Yumpin’ Yimminy is fast and ran up front. Courtney Stewart and Richard Shaw were leading their Saturday qualifier after a few gun jumpers when the propeller shaft decided it had had it along the back stretch on the final lap. With no spare shaft, the

team was forced to withdraw for the remainder of the weekend in the JS-1 Goin’ Skiffin’ Crazy.

Congratulations to Jay Hardy and Katelyn Shaw for another fantastic event on Greenwood Lake. This is probably one of the smallest clubs to host an event, and they do a great job. Also, congratulations to Jay on getting his first win in his JS-22 Fuelin’ Around. You always remember your first win and your first win at your hometown race. Jay got both at the same time!

A few reminders...The next Inboard race in Region 4 is the Hampton Cup on August 6th and 7th. This year Hampton is hosting the 2016 Eastern Divisionals.

The Carolina Virginia Racing Association is finalizing plans for the 2016 Stock, Mod and Junior Nationals in Hinton, WV August 2nd-6th. Club members recently spent a weekend in Hinton, prepping for the event. They ask that you sent in your pit request to: hintonparking2016@gmail.com and that you preregister for the event at: https://cvra.regfox.com/2016hinton-nationals Good luck and safe racing!

—Richard Shaw, Region 4 Chairman REGION 5 When I received the link to the APBA “SPIN.” I went online and printed off the four-page newsletter. I like it! I had read most, but not all, of the online Propeller editions, but much prefer the printed version. But then Jeff and I still get the paper delivered to our doorstep to enjoy with our coffee every morning—you know, old and set in our ways. I am pleased that the APBA Board of Directors made the changes to Propeller and added the newsletter. The SPIN is easy to print and keep if you want to, and easy to read. The new combination

of Propeller and APBA SPIN is good! Thank you! Also, welcome back to Tana Moore as Propeller Editor. I am very happy you are back.

OK...it is summer and getting hot in Florida, so time for me to quit mentioning Florida winter weather.

While most regions are racing every weekend, we are finishing up our season and heading north to play.

The one exception in Region 5 is P1 Superstock USA, with a summer schedule that includes Jacksonville and Sarasota.

The 5th Annual Stuart Sailfish Regatta held May 2022nd was a huge success...again. Good weather both Saturday and Sunday (except for a little afternoon rain on Saturday) plus not too much wind (remember, we are only a few blocks from the Atlantic Ocean) and most important—NO MANATEE sightings. This event is held in the Intracoastal Waterway in Stuart, Florida. The event committee works closely with the Coast Guard and environmentalists to secure permits to race in this water. They pay $10,000 for a helicopter to fly over the race course to be sure no manatee, porpoise or turtles are swimming in the area. Working together, permits are issued, a great location becomes a race course, and everyone is happy.

I have said it before, but will repeat it: the best place to get the best view of the finals at this event is standing on top of the picnic table in the pavilion which serves as the Judge’s Stand. I think I stood up there most of the weekend!

The Stuart Sailfish Regatta contracts with Hydroplane Racing League (HRL) to add this event to the GP class’s schedule. That meant that 12 Grand Prix monsters came to Stuart. Mechanical issues plagued owner John MacDonald and driver Brandon Kennedy all weekend.

Grand Prix qualifier in Stuart, Florida. Bob Pontek photo

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Bert Henderson won the final, with Tom Pakradooni 2nd and Marty Wolfe 3rd. Eight 5 Litres came south.

Owner Richard Hearn and driver Donny Allen had boat repair issues and John Shaw, driving for Thompson Bros.

Racing, showed everyone the way around the course.

In 2.5 Litre Stock, it was Al Thompson’s weekend, taking home the overall weekend trophy. Way to go, Al! In Jersey Speed Skiffs, Clyde McFarland and Dave Greenlaw battled all weekend. What a fun class to watch. My special thanks to the crew of the #77, who brought Tom Petterson’s boat down from New Jersey.

Tom could not make the trip, but Tom Pakradooni piloted the rig. Get well soon, Tom Petterson!

In SE, Katelyn Shaw won the overall weekend trophy with Jim Clauss/Jeff Clauss 2nd and Ron Reynolds, Region 5 driver, 3rd.

Rough water late in the day postponed the OPC SST 120 class until Sunday morning. Jeff Reno and Fred Durr tied for overall weekend points, but a 1-lap penalty broke the tie and Jeff Reno took home the trophy. Tom Ludwig was 3rd.

My thanks to the Regatta Committee for a great event, to the officials who travelled a long way to help, and to all the teams who headed south to support our event and make it a success.

Thanks again for listening to me, —Sally Titus REGION 6 June is here and so is boat racing. Let’s take a rundown on the Outboard ranks: May 28-29, the Stock & J Outboard Central Divisional champions were crowned in Franklin, PA. Per Brian Williams, Divisional qualifiers were: CSR- Dean Sutherland, CSH- Mark Miskerik, 20SSH- Dana Holt, ASR- Peter Lauer, and 300SSH- Mike Pavlick. Divisional blockers: ASH- Abby Pond and 25SSR- Tom Nuccio. We will have a complete list in the next issue from TRORA. Opening up the month will be the Toronto Outboard Racing Club (TORC)’s “Power on the Pond” in Waterford, ON. A joint-sanctioned APBA-CBF event, Mod, Stock, Junior classes and OSY-400 will be on the schedule.

Get more bang for your buck and consider crossing the border for some Canadian racing.

Dayton, OH has a new race in June from the Buckeye Outboard Association at the Hydrobowl on Eastwood Lake. Solar Splash: The Intercollegiate Championship of Solar/Electric Boating will run from June 15-19 in both Sprint and Endurance heats. Categorized as a Special Event, it sounds like a cool, unique addition to the schedule!

JULY 22-24, 2016 Following that will be the Michigan Hydroplane Racing Association (MHRA)’s Constantine, MI event sponsored

by River Country Tourism of Southwest MI on the traditional Father’s Day weekend (June 18-19). There will be an MHRA Racer School on Friday, June 17; seats have been full since March but MHRA is still in need of volunteers! Contact MichiganHydroplane@gmail. com for more information. MHRA is expecting a large turnout with elimination races in multiple classes.

Classes on the sanction include all Stock and J classes with the 350MH, 400MH, 500MH & 750MH classes set to race too.

How about Inboard news? Although there aren’t any races in Region 6 for June...all the planning is going into the July 23-24 Quake on the Lake Inboard Nationals in Waterford, MI. Rather than go into details myself, we’ll let Eli Whitney recap the most recent news from Marine Prop Riders past few meetings: “JBII (John Bridge) and John Pulbratek attended the Quake event meeting, to begin the process of following in Mary Anne Wilson’s footsteps. Quake needs an Assistant Risk Manager to sign up soon.

Remember to take the test and get on the list in the APBA office. This position requires some people skills, and is ultra-important to create and maintain a safe environment for the event, for racers and fans alike. You don’t have to do all the work. You can line up some helpers to cover the territory, and you’ll work with the Referee (Head Guy In Charge, aka Risk Manager) and will know everything going on, as it happens! Volunteer, and help make the event a great one! Contact JBII or Mary Anne soon!”

Race Reports: Dayton Testing – Mark Weber: April 23-24, we had 34 testing boats (13 Vintage, 3 Outboard, 18 Inboard hydros) and 18 driving school graduates. Chris Ritz gets multiple kudos for being the PITMASTER, working closely with Referee Steve Spisak and all the racers! Financial goals were met, and park officials got their park back in good order and on time. The River Rats donated a new motor

to Box 21 (for the rescue boat), with the old motor traded to the Rats to power their newly acquired pontoon flag boat. (It needs a name; how about “River Rat Jr.”?) Great weather, notables testing include Mario Maraldo’s Baby Doll III, making waves with Bobby I and II driving; H-202 Heavy Duty Vintage on cruise control with both Ron Snyder and Mark Cravens at the controls; Scott Anderson in his first time out in Tom Newman’s NM; Phil Kunz’s Helter Skelter; Dick Delsener’s J Class (7 Litre) big block hydro; Joe Kreitzer in the S-17 All In; and JBII in Paul Poledink’s White Lightning 280, just to name a few. Incidentally, Steve Spisak’s 50-50 for veteran Honor Flights raised $250—good job!

There you have it. We are going to have a good season here. Check the race schedule at apba.org for a Region 6 event near you, and raise your hand to volunteer at a race. It’s fun, and you get the best view of the action.

—Elek Hutchinson REGION 10 The Region 10 racing season kicked off in full force on April 30-May 1, as Seattle Outboard Association hosted the first-ever Western Stock Outboard Winternationals at Silver Lake near Castle Rock, WA. This is one of the most picturesque race sites in North America, with Silver Lake situated at the base of the Northwest’s legendary volcanic attraction, Mt. St. Helens.

Over 100 entries each day participated, with teams traveling from as far away as Northern California (thanks for coming up, Joe Johnson!). With a full day’s slate of Stock and Mod racing, there was plenty of racing action under clear blue skies and temperatures in the 70s and 80s throughout the weekend. Three of our Stock classes had fields big enough to crown double-point Winternational champions. Kyle Lewis took home the double win in C Stock Hydro and C Stock Runabout. It was J Michael Kelly in 20SS Hydro (after a close second in CSH) who came home with the win that hotly contested Yamato class. We also had strong fields in the J and AX Hydro classes, in 500cc Mod Hydro, and saw a number of brand new racers make it through their very first weekend of racing. A big thanks to our hosts at Silver Lake Resort, and to Race Chairman Kyle Bahl, who organized a well-run event. We look forward to returning there next year.

Next up for the outboards is a return to venerable Kitsap Lake near Bremerton, WA for the annual Armed Forces Regatta. Our host race site, Camp McKean (a Navy park) has been closed for renovations for a number of years, so 2016 marks our first return to the lake at the bottom of a great big hill since 2011. Race Chairman Dwight “Master Tech” Malhiot has promised us good weather and quad runners to help us navigate the pit

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area for this year. It will be good to get back to one of our Region’s oldest race sites after a number of years away. And of course, the week after Kitsap Lake, we roll to Newberg, OR, for the “ageless” Newberg Memorial Day Boat Races, hosted by the Newberg Boat Club and Columbia Outboard Racing Association.

In other good news, Northwest Outboard Marathon Association, NOMA, is showing steady signs of making a comeback. It’s good to see some interest from our modest but enthusiastic group of tunnel boat racers.

Mike White updates us on the latest NOMA meetings: “NOMA meets the third Thursday of the month and, as of April, we have moved our meetings to a new location: 3121 Broadway, Everett, WA (Buzz Inn).

Our F150s and OPC Vintage are still working out their race schedule for this year.

“The Sport C drivers have committed to five races: Newberg, Oak Harbor, Pateros, Spanaway, and Manson/Lake Chelan. Activities Chairman Larry Shepherd will be contacting TIRA, SD&S, CORA, and SIRA to be put on the sanctions. NOMA members are excited about the 2016 season, and preparing by displaying new OPC/NOMA T-shirts and patches to become more visible at the events and with the public. “ With the Lawrence Lake spring event being cancelled this year, our Inboard contingent would not get their start until early June in the Northwest. Jim Codling brings us up to speed on Inboard planning: “Our folks across the state are working hard to get the first couple of events underway. Aaron Stephens and John Culver are heading up the Region 10 Inboard racing season start with their new club in eastern Washington. Northwest Boat Racing is the host, which includes a whole lot of old Tri-Cities retirees. This group has started up the old Seattle Drag and Ski site in Richland, and are hoping for a great event early in June at Howard Amon Park. A tough little race course awaits racers returning to Richland. Check your race circular for details and hotel accommodations.

“Two weeks later, Aaron, now the race director for Seattle Drag and Ski Sprint Boats, is setting up the Smokiam Resort Regatta on the shores of Soap Lake. This 3rd year regatta will not be a record event this year due to surveyor shortages. (Young Carson Dodge graduates from high school that weekend, so the whole Dodge family is tied up.) The Smokiam site is really nice, with large rental tents, cabins, and camping sites close to the racing pits. Mention Seattle Drag and Ski for a discount at the main race sponsor’s reservation line, 509-246-0413.

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“Normally we would be heading off to Burley, Idaho in Late June, but most of our flatbottom gang— the Super Stocks, Pro Stocks, K boats and hydros— await resolution of the capsule rule changes. (See Inboard article on page 22.)

“Black Lake Race Chairman Shawn Waters and his dad Mike Waters are gathering steam for this 41st year event in Olympia, Washington, July 9th and 10th. This year the race again falls back to the Evergreen Shores side of the lake, due to the proposed sale of last year’s site. It is a great place for this world record course and the Northwestern championship. Member Bob Schellhase promises an interesting first turn, with the new Grand Prix boats that the GPW guys are putting together... always something to watch. In response to the rumor that Sam Cole will be a turn buoy at this event, he swears he is an administrative person only :)” Our Northwest Vintage racers (well, some of the fleet) got an early start this year, participating at the Kenmore Cup exhibition even at Lake Washington in mid-April, as part of the Sammamish Slough Exhibition. Ron Morrison recaps us on the highlights, and discusses the other Vintage plans for 2016: “Region 10 Vintage had a successful early season testing and display romp on Lake Washington at Kenmore, Washington. Vintage has given a good try at this event/location for the past several years, but weather and water conditions have not cooperated.

This year Mom Nature smiled and it was good both on the water and for showing off some Vintage rigs to the public. Despite the ever-present weather question early in the year, this event has a lot going for it. Being close to Seattle, it offers easy access

Three Rivers Outboard Racing Association wishes to thank all those who participated in the John Read Memorial Regatta at Franklin, Pa. over the Memorial holiday weekend.

Weather and water conditions were nearly perfect, which made for exciting competition.

As a bonus, TRORA crowned its newest High Points Champion, Dean Sutherland.

Congratulations to Dean and his crew for all their hard work and commitment to outboard racing. Pictured are Dean Sutherland (R) with his son Ryan.

—Larry Stenander

for the many active and interested in Vintage race boat activity. Also, there is a real interest in the north Lake Washington communities in having the Vintage boats be part of community events. Many people and groups deserve thanks for this year’s success. If you are one, take a moment to smile and take credit.

“June has a couple of Vintage-included Inboard events in eastern Washington. Richland, the first weekend, is a new event sponsored by the Northwest Powerboat Club, led by Aaron Stevens and John Culver. Twelve to 15 Vintage entries are expected for this one. There is a lot of APBA boat racing history in the Tri-Cities, much of it the Unlimiteds. So getting a standalone Inboard event here is exciting. Seattle Drag and Ski brings their annual Soap Lake Regatta on June’s third weekend.

This is always a lower stress, work together, get ’em in, get ’em out, get ’er done kind of event, and Vintage is expecting a good showing of boats.

“Most of the Region 10 Vintage events in 2016 will again be in eastern Washington. Recognizing the struggle and travail our racing clubs too often experience getting needed permission for regattas on the west side, we should appreciate the availability of water and the welcome we receive in the more free and easy world of eastern Washington. The people and conditions there meet our needs, and that’s a good thing.”

Yep, things are really starting to roll up here in the Northwest corner. More news to follow next month.

Until then, keep the shiny side up!

—Patrick Gleason

RACE IN PEACE SVEN ELLSTRÖM (1929 - 2016) Sven Hjalmar Ellström, the 87-year-old founder of Ellström Manufacturing in Ballard, passed away on May 18 in Seattle. In a long, successful life, Ellström’s drive and ingenuity made a mark in flooring, aerospace and boat racing.

Born in Färila, Sweden, he joined the Royal Swedish Air Force at age 17 in 1946 and served as a flight engineer until 1955. While stationed in Korea, he developed the engineering skills that would shape his future.

Sven and his wife Kerstin came to the USA in 1956, and settled in Seattle in 1959. Working at odd jobs, Sven crafted a homemade press from scrap iron and a modified table saw. From that humble beginning, Ballard’s Ellström Manufacturing grew into a worldwide supplier of panel components for the marine, aircraft, fixture, furniture and specialty products industries.

In 1967, Ellström was commissioned by Boeing to create the largest wind tunnel blades in history—36 feet in diameter, used in testing for the 747. Since then, the company has specialized in making composite paneling for numerous applications.

The first laminate flooring manufactured in the U.S. was made by an Ellström subsidiary, STEL Flooring Inc. In 1996 the Ellström family opened a 50,000-square foot plant in Algona to manufacture the new flooring.

Of Ellström’s world-class products, perhaps the bestknown is the Miss Elam Plus Unlimited Hydroplane (named for “Ellström Laminates”). The Ellström family entered Unlimited Hydroplane racing in 1994 as sponsors of an experimental four-point Unlimited.

In 1995 they built their own conventional turbinepowered Unlimited and scored the first of 20 victories in the 2000 season at the Tri-Cities. The Ellström team also won the 2005 and 2007 National High Point championships, the 2007 and 2009 Gold Cups, and the 2010 World Championship in Qatar.

Sven’s children, Tom, Erick and Lisa shared a lifelong passion for water and boating. After their first boat did not perform well, the Ellström family built their own.

Brothers Erick and Tom Ellström couldn’t find parts made with the level of precision they wanted. Thus Five-Axis Industries was born. The company specializes in high-tolerance parts with complicated geometries machined from hard ferrous materials such as titanium and inconel. Boeing is a major customer, and the company ships to customers worldwide.

Former Boeing executive and longtime friend Scott Carson called Sven a mentor; “...a close personal friend...a very kind man. He was also a very shrewd businessman (who) built a very successful enterprise that was always able to change with the times.”

Sven was preceded in death by his wife Kerstin in 2007 and is survived by a sister, Margot Charlotta EllströmSollie, sons Tom, Erick (Darcy) and daughter Lisa (John Bauer) as well as beloved grandchildren Donne, Carynne, Christian, Krister, Sven, Hanna, Alexis and Michael. —courtesy of H1 Unlimited ARTHUR PUGH (1932 - 2016) Arthur Elmer Pugh, 83, of Knoxville TN, passed away at home April 26th after a lengthy illness. He graduated high school at The Berry School in Rome, GA. A former employee of ORNL and founder of Pugh Boat Works, Art Pugh was a lifelong self-employed master woodworker with many magnificent creations.

He was preceded in death by his son Alex Pugh and brother, Luther “Pete” Pugh. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty Pugh; daughter Nina and husband; Marion Pugh; son Gary and wife, Beverly Pugh; son Eric and wife, Jenny Pugh; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who all brought him many hours of joy and love.

RICHARD RAUTENBERG (1940 - 2016) Richard Charles Rautenberg, 76, passed away May 29, 2016 from complications due to Parkinson’s disease. Born Feb. 27,1940 to Alan and Virginia Rautenberg, he graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelors degree and finished out his career in the business leasing industry.

“Dick Poppa” was a fast, fierce and very successful hydro and runabout driver—a trait he passed on to his daughters and grandchildren. He was a lifetime member of Seattle Outboard Association, where many memories and forever friendships were created. His world revolved around boat racing and he loved this sport more than anything.

He is survived by his daughters: Susan (Alicia) Rautenberg, Sheryl Rucker; grandchildren Ashley, Colin, Teagan and Tucker as well as stepsons Jeff and John Ewing and their families.

PETER MICHAEL THOMSON Sadly, there will be no more speeding for Peter Michael Thomson. His life skidded to a halt on May 13, 2016.

Born in Bremerton WA, Peter attended schools in Long Beach and Stockton CA, and Reno NV. He returned to Seattle to work at his father’s trade, shipbuilding; and grew to love hydro racing. He married and had two sons, Mike (who died in 2015) and Scott. As they reached young adulthood, his marriage dissolved.

Peter had a limited Hydroplane (Copycat-76) built for him. He raced for a time, but for decades his niche was in the pits at Unlimited races as an H1 Inspector. Wellliked, he was known as “The Sheriff.”

He married New Orleans belle Sam (Sylvia), and they traveled extensively. Peter enjoyed shopping, trading and collecting cars, pocket watches, and other items.

Halfway through his life, he discovered that he had inherited the genetic lung disease (Alpha-1) that took his father’s life at age 56. He enjoyed life to the fullest until succumbing in Bellevue at age 73.

He will be forever missed by wife Sam, stepdaughters Kristine, Karen and Jennifer, and their husbands, two grandchildren, his brother Jim (Bev) a niece, and many friends and relatives whose lives he touched.

PHILIP ZOELLER (1956 - 2016) Philip Zoeller, 59, of Jupiter, Florida (formerly of Oceanside, NY) passed away on April 8th, 2016.

Phil is survived by his wife of 36 years, Karen; siblings Wendy, Jane, and Tommy; and several nieces and nephews.

A marine mechanic, Phil supported all aspects of boat racing. He served as the PROP Tour motor inspector; and he and Karen were enthusiastic Superlight Tunnel (now Thundercat) racers.

A Celebration of Life for Phil was held on May 14th in Jupiter, FL. Dave Lawrence wrote, “I met Phil through his Marine Services and we became instant friends. Not only was he a master mechanic, but an avid racer who turned me into a fan. I have been a customer over 10 years, but I never felt like a client; he made me feel like a friend. Thank you, Phil.”

—www.legacy.com

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