During racing's hey day of the 1950's, Unlimiteds were the headliners at the Grand Island regattas. Reminiscent of those days, U-60 Century 21, 1959 Gold Cup Champion flashed it's powerful 750 horse Rolls Royce engine and majestically stormed down the Niagara River straight-away. Just as it had done decades ago. Owner Barbara Carper also made the Seattle based hydro available for guest rides. A few guests got the thrill of a lifetime as they joined driver Ike Kielgass in the cockpit for a few hot laps.

(Bill DeGlopper photo)

Boats with a Australian roots were there:
Aussie Terry Moran brought his 12' Coventry powered Winton Skiff via container ship to the US shore. Fellow countryman Paul Dewhurst, renown designer & boat builder, was well represented with the Gentleman's racer Golden Thunder and Elusive. His American partner Butch Kropfeld hosted the Golden Era Classics display and was assisted by World Record holder Ken Warby. He showed videos and updated fans on his plans to make a new assault on his water speed record in 2004.
 

BLC Show Chairman - Rich DeGlopper - JS-88 Stormalong
Riding Mechanic - Peggy Hollstein
 

Bill Mehan - JS-712 Miss Align.
Riding Mechanic - Bryan Milazzo.
 

Bill DeGlopper - JS-25 Hot Ticket
Riding Mechanic - Brian DeGlopper
 

Dave Yeager - JS-97 River Rat
Fellow skiffer Chuck Warner is riding in the bow keeping his foot over the missing bow drain plug 
as they head to the crane to avoid sinking.
 

These boats along with JS-44 Puppy Love, JS-7 Hot Tub, JS-3 Hops A Lot, JS-81 Whizzbang, JS-22 Heartbeat, and JS-38 Double Trouble put on a colorful, lively show. Great photo opportunities were abundant. The ten Jersey Speed Skiffs put on an energetic show as they ran multiple heats, complete with high speed turns and leaping flat out runs parallel to & less than 60' from the break wall and it's assembled, enthusiastic fans.
 

Buffalo Launch Club 2003 Page 3