Bound by Legacy
Very few people understand the significance behind the "Legacy" which is the foundation of this race team. The true nature of this legacy has extended itself outside of blood relations and encompasses those who have become "family" through their generational racing ties over the past 65 years. For these families, Hydroplane Racing is much more than putting a fast boat on the water and pulling for a win. It has become a bond that has held them together over the years, where memories have been made, victories have been celebrated and dreams have become one.
The Hearn legacy began in the 1930’s with hydroplane pioneer, Steve Hearn, who built and raced his own boats. The desire to go fast was passed on to his two sons and daughter, Edward, Richard and Beth. Through them, it was then handed down to seven grandchildren. The Hearn name was etched into the APBA Hall of Champions many times over. Edward currently holds the title of most inductions into the Hall by a single driver, an impressive 19 times. Steve and Edward are past inductees of the prestigious APBA Honor Squadron. This is the highest non-racing award that APBA offers each year which recognizes outstanding individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the sport of power boat racing. Continuing the family legacy, in the Fall of 2015, Hearn Motorsports was established by Owners, Richard and Susan Hearn. Their son, Grant Hearn, will be driving the F2500. (See Driver Section for Grant Hearn's Driver Bio).
The Allen legacy began in 1937 with Don Allen, Sr. Don started racing in 1953 and was heavily involved in APBA politics. It was only natural that six of his children and five of his grandchildren would inherit this same passion. Don Jr. would begin his racing career in 1971 and married Krysti Kargus, another multi-generational racing family made up of Kargus/Berghauer's. The Allen name is synonymous with APBA, not only in the political arena, but also on the race course. The Allen's have a combined total of fourteen National Championships and five inductions into the APBA Hall of Champions. (See Driver section for Donny Allen's Driver Bio)
The Kennedy Legacy began in 1972 as the Kennedy's were brought into the sport of hydroplane racing by the Baker's. After the purchase of their first boat, they never turned back with everyone in the family getting involved. Harold and Mildred started it all but then passed the torch to their son George Sr. George had his wife Barbara as his rider in Jersey Speed Skiff and also drove hydros before passing it down to their kids as the 3rd generation. George Jr and Patti took over the family tradition and George married Sandy Osinga, another family name in 5-liter competition. George won numerous championships, set records, and has been inducted into the Hall of Champions 3 times. Then cam 4th Generation drivers Brandon and Bobby. Brandon the son of George Jr and Bobby the son of Patti. Both having their fair share of success over the years. Our driver Brandon Kennedy has a long list of accomplishments you can see on his driver's bio page.