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THE
BOATING FEVER IS HOTTER THAN EVER! (20-2)
by William E. Taylor
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 The
series of interesting events during two of the major
winter shows this year just goes to show the boating
spirit is stronger than ever. Despite a winter blizzard
and power shortage during the Toronto International
Boat Show, plus a threatening labour strike which stalled
the opening of the Vancouver International Boat Show,
each event prevailed with positive attendance numbers
and excellent sales results.
Adding to the excitement - the boating spirit is hotter
than ever as dealers from coast to coast are reporting
a steady flow of new enthusiasts to the sport. This
is great news and definitely proves that 2005 is shaping
up to be a very exciting year.
Speaking of good news, renowned industry members Mark
Ellis and Ted Quinn were the center of attention at
this year’s Toronto International Boat Show after
being inducted into the Canadian Boating Hall of Fame
- Mark and Ted deserve special kudos for their honourable
achievement. Mark Ellis, a famed boat designer throughout
the North American marine industry, is responsible for
several admirable boat designs in the power and sail
segments, including his impressive array of Bruckmann
Yachts and series of Limestone cottage boats, built
by Medeiros Boat Works in Oakville, Ontario. Mark’s
impressive designs have received impressive reviews
among the pages of Power Boating Canada over the years
with their smooth, graceful lines and exceptional performance.
Long-time marina owner of Quinn’s Marina in Pefferlaw,
Ontario, and boat racer extraordinaire, Ted definitely
left his mark on the boating scene. With such an impressive
career in the Canadian racing circuit, it was only natural
for Mark Rotharmel, a former FI powerboat racer who
was recently inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall
of Fame, to present the award. It seems like it was
just yesterday when Ted was at the helm of the Canadian
Boating Federation and making great strides assisting
with the management of Mercury’s factory racing
team. His many accomplishments in the Canadian racing
circle and recreational boating industry will be remembered
for a long time.
As we continue to celebrate our 20th year of power boating,
we hope you have enjoyed the lifestyle as much as we
have. And this issue concentrates on just that. Starting
on page 26, our boat tester Richard Crowder offers rave
reviews on Four Winns’ 348 Vista, while Meridian
Yacht’s 368 motoryacht, tested by Tim Banse, and
Monterey’s 214 FS Montura will undoubtedly grab
your attention.
If that’s not enough, be sure to check out the
advice from our regular columnists as well as a special
feature showcasing some of hottest Canadian cruising
routes, starting on page 58.
Whatever your niche is on the water, you’ll be
sure to find it Power Boating Canada. After all, our
goal is to provide you with the latest and greatest
insight to enhance your boating experiences with family
and friends. (Page
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