NYCkayaker Ferries/Barges vs Cigarette boats -- some points....

[Richard Smith]

<But perhaps some don't think New York should host such a prestigous event
as a Poker Boat Race. >

In the late 40's and early 50's New York sponsored 2 high profile power boat
races.

The first was an Albany to Manhattan race down the Hudson (out boards
mainly.)

Because of the availability of surplus high powered aircraft engines there
was much  interest in unlimited (no restriction) racing boats.  Every year
in the fall 5 or 6 of these monsters raced around Manhattan Island.  I can
remember watching a memorable competition wherein Guy Lombardo (band leader)
drove a displacement type boat powered by 4 Alision aircraft engines.
That's about 10,000 horsepower in a 50-60 foot boat!!

Richard Smith