“Sassy” is an eight-foot homebuilt boat with a rich history. As a teenager, Steve Ingraham dreamed of speed, and he was determined to get it through a race-winning design—a Ventnor 3-point hydroplane. This vision was realized when Naval Architect Glen L. Witt designed the “Tiny Titan,” which graced the pages of Popular Mechanics in March 1965. The design was touted as a quick-to-build hydroplane, and today, the plans remain available alongside many other boat designs from Glen-L Boat Plans.

Restoring the 1965 homebuilt was no small feat. The project involved rebuilding the transom, several frames, two battens, and replacing the decks. Modern materials were used, such as fiberglass mat and bronze screws, replacing the original glue and ring nails. The only modification to the original plans was the addition of a compartment for the gas tank in the foredeck to improve balance. The entire restoration process spanned about six months, with the usual interruptions that come with family life.

Powered by a 1956 Mercury Mark 25 2-cycle, 25 horsepower outboard engine, Sassy is primarily used as a lake boat. Even in light chop, the ride remains surprisingly smooth thanks to the cushion of air trapped between the two sponsons.

Steve, a dedicated boating enthusiast, plays an active leadership role in the ACBS Mid-Atlantic chapter, continuing to share his passion for classic boats with others.

Submitted by Chris Brown  brcwb@aol.com