2021 NAMBA Nats Race Program

race we got to know Jim and Ralph Henry. First, they started the boats with a rope. Here is another “WHAT and WHY?” We also met Alan Hobbs at that race. I was choking and Ralph hollered BEND HER OVER and then came and did it himself. Hobbs turned to Greg and asked where is her husband, she was choking? AUSTRALIA We met Billy Annabel and a hand full of other Aussies at the LA Nationals. We became good friends. A few years later some of the California racers and us decided to go to Australia for their Nats on the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise. I recall Mr. Brodbeck, Roy Edenfield, Ira Cotton, Gene Bussell, and Erie Bob (he was from Hawaii). Good racing, good company, and great hosts. In 1997 we moved to Sydney, partly because of Billy’s friendship and I got a great job offer. We felt comfortable moving as we had already been many times. Greg began to build twin hydro’s for, I think, everyone. We went to their club race once a month. We noticed they did not share a lot of their secrets and little socializing. We suggested a BBQ after the race, maybe people would stay, have a beer and sausage, and get to know each other and share racing stories. It worked. While living there, more friends from the states came over for the Aussie Nationals. The event was always over Christmas and New Year’s, making it a great vacation. Our kids would come over for the holidays and attend the races. Greg was not racing as much anymore, but Justin always did quite well there and had FUN. We even continued to go back for the Aussie Nationals after we move back to the states. Twice Al Hobbs joined us and once Lohring Miller. You should ask Al about driving on the other side and backing up. We miss our friends there but have stayed in touch and taken vacations together. LIFELONG MEMORIES  The traveling, racing, building the boats was family bonding time.  Justin winning both X Hydro and Twin Hydro at the LA Nats in 2011. Always was a goal!  Racing with some of the best racers.  Getting that first jacket for winning a District class.  Getting beautiful trophies in San Diego.  Night racing in Camarillo.  Going to the Southern Gentleman’s race in Slidell, LA, multiple times.  The transition from Nitro to GAS.  The after parties in the parking lots (remember Sacramento?)  Great friends taking Justin home after the Nats, many times. Thank You.  Vacations with friends that were racers. Not anymore, they are just best friends now.  Friendships we would have never had without NAMBA. I appreciate and thank you for reading our story. This hobby is about having fun, making new friends, sharing information, helping others, and showing respect because everyone is different. This was a big part of our life. Even though we do not race anymore, we will show up to visit, hug, and find out what’s up. This hobby is all about you, the people! “Winning is cool, but I’ve never lost having fun!” - Justin Hill Aussie Nats 2021 NAMBA Nationals Page 41