Ira Cotton -
Inducted 1997
Ira was one of the early members of the San Diego Argonauts model
boat club, serving several terms as their Commodore. He also served
as Contest Director of two of the NAMBA Nationals which were held
in San Diego and has attended all but four of the nationals held in
other areas. Whenever anyone thinks of Ira they think of beautifully
detailed unlimited hydroplanes. His "Oh Boy, Oberto" hulls have
become legendary, taking top honors in most of the concours events
in which he was a participant.
Jack Garcia -
Inducted 1998
When one thinks about outboards, one thinks about Jack. Jack
worked for many years with K&B Manufacturing, helping in the
design and development of the outboard engine. Jack served one term
as District 19 Director, and helped develop the popularity of the
outboard class in that district. He served as National Outboard
Chairman for NAMBA and has contributed many articles to the
Propwash
over the years. Jack is always there with a smile and a
helping hand for rookie and seasoned boaters alike.
Dave Bestpitch -
Inducted 1998
Dave has been a member of NAMBA since its early days. He has
served terms as Director of District Nine and served as the Contest
Director for the 1992 NAMBA Nationals which were held in
Sacramento. Dave and his wife Bev can usually be found at all of the
west coast nationals complete with their engraving equipment,
personalizing plates for the trophies with the winner's name. Dave
currently serves as the NAMBA Records & Awards Chairman.
Doug DeWitte -
Inducted 2000
Doug started model boating in 1988 and attended his first Nationals
in 1989. Since then he has attended many more Nationals and has
won many National Championships. He served two terms as District
19 Director, several years as NAMBA Sport Hydro Chairman, and
two terms as NAMBA Vice President. He also served on five
Nationals committees. Doug says his real love in NAMBA is the
people, who in his words are “my second family”.
