Back in 1978, Dave Knowlen designed the future "cathedral" wing hydroplanes that became the 1979 "The Squire Shop" and "Circus Circus".
But did you know.......
Bernie Little was actually slated to be the first owner of these new designs from Norberg Custom Boats, and it was originally designed to run with a Rolls-Royce "Griffon" engine.
If I remember the story correctly, it goes something like this...
Bernie had agreed to purchase this new Knowlen designed hull, but he didn't put any money down on it. Mr. Knowlen was still shopping his design around, and Bob Steil decided to buy the new boat and became the first customer. When Bernie found out, he immediately contacted Mr. Knowlen and his business partner Norm Berg and stated that he still wanted the boat..........but that he wouldn't come in second to anyone. Dave informed Bernie that he would be 2nd in the build order, so he withdrew. Shortly afterward, Bill Bennett of Circus Circus Casino's bought a Norberg hull as well, and now Bernie would be third in line if he decided to buy one.
Bernie ultimately went with the "Juggernaught" Ron Jones designed hull instead........and the rest is history.
However, there is proof out there that Bernie was serious enough that a deal was almost reached...........see the pictures from the 1979 Miss Budweiser team program to see for yourself.
Looks familiar doesn't it?
But did you know.......
Bernie Little was actually slated to be the first owner of these new designs from Norberg Custom Boats, and it was originally designed to run with a Rolls-Royce "Griffon" engine.
If I remember the story correctly, it goes something like this...
Bernie had agreed to purchase this new Knowlen designed hull, but he didn't put any money down on it. Mr. Knowlen was still shopping his design around, and Bob Steil decided to buy the new boat and became the first customer. When Bernie found out, he immediately contacted Mr. Knowlen and his business partner Norm Berg and stated that he still wanted the boat..........but that he wouldn't come in second to anyone. Dave informed Bernie that he would be 2nd in the build order, so he withdrew. Shortly afterward, Bill Bennett of Circus Circus Casino's bought a Norberg hull as well, and now Bernie would be third in line if he decided to buy one.
Bernie ultimately went with the "Juggernaught" Ron Jones designed hull instead........and the rest is history.
However, there is proof out there that Bernie was serious enough that a deal was almost reached...........see the pictures from the 1979 Miss Budweiser team program to see for yourself.
Looks familiar doesn't it?
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