APBA Vintage and Historic Race Boat enthusiasts returned to Wolfeboro Bay on
September 25 – 27 for the 3rd semi-annual Regatta sponsored by the NH
Boat Museum. Fifty race boats from 13 states as far away as Florida and Michigan
were on hand to enjoy the traditional smooth water of Wolfeboro Bay. Although
the skies threatened each day, the rain held off to permit every driver to run
two heats each day on the 1-¼ mile – 1200-foot wide course. Living up to their
prior reputation the Museum ran two heats per hour on schedule through out the
two days. Helping maintain the schedule were over 100 volunteers who contributed
during the Regatta. A very professional crane launch operation received high
marks from all of the drivers. Brian Small and the APBA Rescue team covered the
course in their usual professional manner and contributed greatly to the
successful on-water course management.
A number of related activities completed the venue for the
drivers, crew and guests. A cocktail cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee kicked off
the Regatta followed the next day by a Race Course luncheon cruise . Following
the day’s heats on Friday, radio controlled race boats were demonstrated at the
Wolfetrap Restaurant followed by a seafood or steak dinner for the Vintage
crowd. Following Saturday’s heats the awards and presentation cookout was held
at the Boat Museum. Jeff and Barbara Magnusson and Bill and Judy Fisk were
recognized for their contributions in helping grow the Wolfeboro event since
it’s inception in 2000. Jeff Buckley was awarded the Golden Snorkel Award for
his performance in handling GP – 11, Executif that resulted in a displaced
transom, which led to a near sinking. Quick action by a nearby towboat and the
launch service saved his day. Jeff then presented the Museum with a plaque and
American flag from his recent military assignment in the middle East. While
flying as a Navigator onboard an Air Force C-130 during missions over
Afghanistan and Iraq, Jeff carried the flag with him. He then had it mounted
along with a plaque which he donated to the Museum. Although many folks
corresponded with Jeff during his active duty time, Bill John, and other members
from the NH Boat Museum kept in touch with him via Email on a regular basis.
A regatta poster signed by all the drivers was the subject of a spirited
auction to round out the evening. The price commanded was in keeping with the
fine V & H group in attendance. They all performed in a very professional manner
and contributed to an incident free Regatta for which the Museum is most
appreciative.
This event would not have been possible without the support of our Regatta
Sponsor -Watermark Marine Construction.as well as our Major Sponsors: The
Wolfeboro Inn- donated the cruise boat, The Wolfetrap Restaurant- donated the
Saturday cook out, The Laker newspaper donated the program layout and
distribution, Reliable Crane Services donated two days of hydro launch service,
and Lakeside Ambulance Service donated two days of ambulance service. Four Winns
Boats, and the Magnusson Technical Heritage Foundation rounded out our 2003
Major Sponsors.
Hank Why
Regatta Director
Vintage
Race Boat Shop
