1998 | W Dean Wilson SR
Wilson participated in boat racing for over 40 years as a driver, race promoter and APBA officer. He first competed in what is now the PRO category, in F Outboard Hydros. In the early 1970s he dominated Regions 6, 7 and 8 in High Points; twice he won the Jack Maypole Award, and was inducted into the Evinrude 100 MPH Outboard Club.
In the 1960s he developed a waterproof wiring connector for Outboard motors. In the 1980s he designed and built the first 100% composite 6 Litre Inboard Hydroplane with a reinforced cockpit.
As Region 12 Chairman he implemented multi-category sanctions that helped increase boat counts. He was an Inboard Commissioner, PRO Commissioner, and Race Director for the PRO Nationals. His four sons also won titles, set records and served APBA. Dean, Sr. always gave of his expertise, friendship and allegiance to APBA. He helped to form the rules and regulations governing the sport today.