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Richard Hazlewood
Inducted: 1990
When one thinks of outboards, one thinks of Richard Hazlewood. Getting started in model
boating in Needles, California isn’t easy, but Richard did it in a big way. He has numerous
National Championships to his credit, either as a driver or as the mechanic and pit person
to his family members. Richard served several terms as NAMBA’s Outboard Chairman.
Al Prather
Inducted: 1991
Al’s frst introduction to model boating was in the late 1970’s, when his son Terry
received a model boat hull from Bill Bennett. From that point on, Al was hooked, and
was instrumental in the design and marketing of numerous model boat hulls and
related equipment. Al raced actively for many years in District 19, and spearheaded the
campaign to raise money and gain permission to build a permanent drivers stand at
Legg Lake. Many new boaters started off with a Prather boat, and their easy to follow
instructions made building virtually fool-proof.
Jack Oxley
Inducted: 1994
It seems like Jack Oxley has been a fxture in District 19 as long as anyone can
remember. For years, his distinctive Wing Dings dominated the hydro classes. Jack has
run just about every type of boat imaginable, from outboards to inboards, monos to
hydros to unlimiteds, nitro to gasoline. In addition, he has held records in almost all of
these classes at one time or another. Jack can be seen almost every weekend at Legg
Lake, and he is still the guy to beat in most of the classes he runs.
Al Wood
Inducted: 1994
Al started his model boating career in England, sailing model yachts with his father. His
modeling career in this country spanned many years, mostly in the Los Angeles area.
While he spent some time running tether boats, he also moved into the R/C arena. His
prop designs were renowned. Al was also able to turn his hobby into a profession, making
radio controlled boats and ships for the movie industry. Al could always be counted on for
a helpful hint, a kind remark, and a hug.
Pat and Charlie Pottol
Inducted: 1994
Charlie and Pat began model boat racing in the 1960’s in northern California. Charlie saw
the need for better boating hardware, and created a company called Marine Specialties.
Pat served as the order desk, where she literally talked to boaters from around the world,
many of whom she talked into coming to regattas in the United States.
Cathie Galbraith
Inducted: 1995
Cathie started out in model boating in the Chicago, Illinois area in the mid 1970’s. Her
frst boat was a Dumas Hot Shot. She quickly moved into the mono classes after seeing
the Prather Deep Vee run at the 1979 Nationals in Monterey. She has had stints as
Secretary and Treasurer of the San Diego Argonauts for many years, has been on eight
Nationals committees, and has served as NAMBA Executive Secretary since 1988.