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There is a definite
mystique surrounding the boats that have shaped the
course of our performance boating lifestyle, forging
new paths in design and technology that earn them a
spot among our most cherished memories.
For Bob DeNisco Jr, the discovery of Don Aronow's original
Formula #16 triggered a four-year restoration project
that will culminate when the classic speedster is honored
as the "Grand Marshal" of the Sarasota APBA/SBI
race over the July 4th weekend.
There are many connections to this special boat. Bob
DeNisco Sr. had been a passenger on the boat during
its heyday, making it an even more special restoration
project for his son - from my point of view, as a performance
boat enthusiast, the link conjures memories of the birth
of Formula boats, Donzi, Magnum, the Cigarette Racing
Team, and the excitement of the "British Invasion"
when the Beatles changed the face of rock and roll back
in the 1960s... you see, this was the boat that carried
John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo
Starr - beginning a long history of celebrity boating
connections.
This summer, Poker Runs America will present a series
of offshore performance Poker Runs in venues throughout
North America. At each run, the general public will
have the unique opportunity to view the leading edge
of marine technology. Drop by the harbor on the Friday
before the Poker Run, and you can visit with the poker
runners, admire the boats, and meet the celebrities
of the sport... you will see the legends of performance
boating, and perhaps more - there is no telling who
may be in attendance among this group - it is a real-life
glimpse into the lifestyles of the rich and famous,
and your visit to the Poker Run is always free of charge.
Visit again on Saturday morning to share the thrill
as more than 100,000 horsepower fires up to challenge
the waters - bring your boat and join the spectator
fleet - our Poker Run marshals and local volunteers
will help you pick an ideal spot along the route to
see the boats in full flight - it's an experience that
you will remember for years to come. Check the Poker
Run schedule on page 94 or visit the website at www.pokerrunsamerica.com
for more information.
As the summer unfolds, and you build your family's treasure
trove of boating memories, please keep in mind that
the thrill of performance boating carries a proportionate
level of risk - always check your on-board safety and
emergency gear, and replenish supplies as required.
Be sure to brief each passenger on the proper seating
position when cruising on plane - and remember - no
alcoholic beverages of any kind until the boat is safely
docked for the night.
The future of performance boating is in the hands of
each and every boating enthusiast. Poker Run organizers
work very hard to build the credibility and reputation
of our sport - please don't let your friends tarnish
this reputation by foolish or dangerous behavior - remember
- it takes years to build a reputation, but only seconds
to destroy it.
Have a safe summer on the water, and if you visit one
of our Poker Runs America events, please take a minute
to drop by and say hello.
William E. Taylor, Publisher
(Feature Article: Poker
Runs Are Here To Stay)
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