The Legacy Restored: Lorne Leibel's Journey with the Kramer Apache 47’
Lorne Leibel and his meticulous restoration of the 47-foot Apache once owned by the infamous Ben Kramer.
In the annals of offshore powerboats, few stories are as captivating as that of Lorne Leibel and his meticulous restoration of the 47-foot Apache once owned by the infamous Ben Kramer.
The Origin of a Legend
The boat in question, a 47-foot Apache, was originally built in 1987 by the legendary Fort Apache, known for crafting some of the fastest and most iconic boats in offshore racing history. Ben Kramer, a figure both celebrated and notorious in the racing community, was its first owner. Kramer's era was marked by speed records and a life that blurred the lines between racing and other, less savory pursuits, leading to his eventual incarceration.
Lorne Leibel: The Custodian of History
Lorne Leibel, a Canadian with deep roots in powerboat racing and a friend to many in the sport, had a history with this particular Apache. He was there when it was first completed, witnessing its raw power firsthand. Years later, after the boat had passed through various hands, Leibel saw an opportunity to bring this piece of racing history back to life.
The Restoration Process
The restoration of the Kramer Apache 47' was undertaken by TNT Custom Marine in Miami, a company known for tackling only the most significant and challenging projects. John Tomlinson, co-founder of TNT, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the work, stating that unless it's a near-complete start-over, they wouldn't entertain the job.
The process involved redoing the drives and the rigging, with the engines being rebuilt by Mike D’Aniballe at Sterling Performance in Michigan. Remarkably, the boat still retained its original paint and interior, which, despite the years, were in surprisingly good condition, a testament to the quality of its initial construction.
A Race Against Time and Memory
Leibel's dedication went beyond mere restoration; it was about preserving a moment in time when offshore racing was at its zenith. His project wasn't just about speed or appearance; it was a homage to the sport's history, to Kramer's legacy, and to the many memories tied to this vessel.
The Impact of Restoration
Lorne Leibel's efforts have breathed new life into this piece of racing heritage, ensuring that the stories and achievements associated with the Kramer Apache 47' continue to inspire new generations of racers and enthusiasts. His project highlights the importance of preservation in the world of high-performance boating, where every boat tells a story of innovation, adventure, and the relentless pursuit of speed.
In bringing back this legendary boat, Leibel has not only honored the past but also contributed to the ongoing narrative of offshore powerboat racing. His work stands as a beacon for those who cherish the sport's history, proving that legends can indeed be reborn, not just in memory but in reality, on the open water where they belong.
Read about the full restoration in VÉHICULE.
