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Brian McGregor from Grande Prairie, Alberta is a jet boater through and through. He was hooked in 1981 at the Great Canadian Marathon, when he realized that he could build a boat not only to compete but also to beat those he saw that day.
His love for the sport is shared by his wife Lois and daughters Paula and Cory who have been fully involved in Jet Boat Racing from the beginning. His grandson Sevastian navigated his first race last year at 16 years old.
in 2014 Brian was named to the Canadian Jet Boat Hall of Fame.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself.
I was the Canadian Boating Federation Western Zone Rep from 1984 to 2017 and worked as an oilfield construction consultant from 1980 to 2021.
Can you tell us a bit about your experience with jet boat racing?
I helped organize boat races from 1983 to 2017 World Races, Whitecourt Races and Grande Prairie Races. I raced in Canada, USA and Mexico and was UIM Commissioner from 1990 to 2014. I have been the Whitecourt Club President, Smokey River Race Chairman, Western Zone Chairman and assisted the Grande Prairie Races.
What inspired you to race jet boats?
I watched the Marathon 1981 starts in Whitecourt and bought Bob Bergs boat #320 after the Marathon finished in Peace River, Alberta.
How many years did you race jet boats for?
I raced from 1982 to 2006 and had 12 different race boats.
What class did you race in?
Unlimited (originally called A Class) also B Class, Sport Jet Class once with my daughter Paula in Whitecourt
Have you won any races?
1989 Whitecourt Circuits, 1989 Peace River Gold Cup, 1990 Whitecourt Circuits, 1993 Whitecourt Circuits and the 2003 World’s B Class.
What is your most memorable racing moment?
Racing with Fred Chrunyk in Mexico in 1984.
In your opinion who is the most influential jet boat racer in your opinion?
Spencer King from Hay River, North West Territories.
Do you have any advice for new up and coming racers?
Save your money & Don’t race!