The Papp Family Members At The Memorial Race
	Photo By RAP :: Race Action Photography

The NJBA season opener, dedicated in loving memory of Tom Papp, went smoothly, other than a little occasional wind. The weekend witnessed gorgeous sunny days and warmer evenings unlike former years where clouds and intermittent rain were part of opener venues.

The crowd was huge and people traveled from various ends of the country to pay tribute to the man who helped mold the industry.

Tom’s niece was the guest announcer, throughout the weekend and is pictured here posing with the rest of Toms Family. The NJBA presented the family with a plaque, commemorating Tom for his many years of participation in the jet boat association.

Toms Mom, was deeply touched by the event, "You don't know how much your love and support means to us. Being here today is just bringing him back, so thank-you so very, very much." She went on to say, "Today was a wonderful day for Tommy, I'm sure he was up there watching you and telling each and every one of you everything you did wrong."

Despite the lack of dry eyes at the awards ceremony, that last comment bought a unanimous chuckle from the crowd.

Tom’s presence, which we all feel, leaves a gaping hole in the race event which will impact each and every track, Tom called home.