Pat Reiter APBA racer

[RH]

Local marine fabricator, powerboat racer and engine builder Pat Reiter,39 of Md is missing and presumed dead after a testing accident in Southern Md late Sunday.I received a call early Monday morning from Pat's brother- in- law, my good friend and boating buddy Keech Edelen informing me of the situation. Things didn't look good at that time but the family was trying to remain optomistic for a rescue. A team of 4 was onboard at the time of the testing accident and all but Pat,the driver, were pulled from the water and transported to local medical facilities.Two had minor injuries and Bob,the owner,has serious injuries and is still hospitilized.The 38 ft Formula, Team Hot Licks was approaching 100mph at the time of the accident as they rounded a marked sand bar in the Patuxent river.Pat knew this area like the back of his hand and sea conditions were good. Exact cause has yet to be determined but the boat pitched violently causing a loss of control and subsequent capsizing. My sons USCG boat station was among the resources involved in the 'round the clock search but sadly the effort changed from rescue to recovery after the window of survivability expired late Monday.
Pat came from a heritage of racing and in addition to driving the Hot Licks entry in the 105mph class, fielded a team including his up and coming son in the 75mph class. His older brother was a past APBA champ and the Hot Licks Team finished 3rd in their Offshore division last season.

My condolences to all Pat's family and friends.He leaves behind a wife Debbie and two children.

I pray for the recovery efforts which are still going on.

[WildcatOne]

Sad news, RH, sorry you lost a friend and the world lost a great guy. May he rest in peace. WC1

[draglist]

Holding out hope... bp

[RH]

Pat's remains were recovered by a deepwater dive team late this evening.

[draglist]

Sorry to hear it. bp

[RH]

Attended Pat's funeral today.Harleys,boats,hot-rods were all there.Over 1400 attendees from last nights services until todays burial. Pat was buried with Military Honors and proud of his hitch in the USMC. Team mates brought Pat's TEAM THUNDER STRUCK single engine entry to the graveside and fired that big 540 up at the end of services.Many race teams came from out of the area and wore their team uniforms. Had the after gathering at the new VFW in Hughesville Md and got to meet a bunch of those offshore guys. Just like any other racers except water instead of asphalt.Brothers in speed.
Great send off for a great family man and racer.

[draglist]

Thanks, RH. bp

[bandit]

I'm sorry RH.

[WildcatOne]

That was a beautiful tribute. I'm sorry for your loss and his family's. RH, you gave a great report on that. Thanks. RIP, Pat...WC1