The Lake Champlain Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society proudly raised a glass to a true icon of our community, Gene Porter, as he marked a landmark 90th birthday!
Gene Porter and True North on Lake Champlain (Photo credit: Holly Weber)
Gene’s love for powerboating traces back to his early years raised in the southeastern Adirondacks and Watertown, New York, with fond memories waterskiing behind an 18-foot Lyman outboard at Grenell Island in the 1000 Islands. That lifelong passion has taken him across the country, trailing his classic boats to countess ACBS boat shows, rendezvous, and workshops.
Throughout his decades with ACBS, Gene has been a major contributor to ACBS and the Lake Champlain Chapter. Whether stepping up to serve on committees, bringing his deep expertise to the Judging Committee as Chair at the Antique Boat Museum’s Annual Boat Show in Clayton, or judging at local events, his wealth of knowledge regarding America’s finest racing and recreational boats is unmatched.
Gene’s leadership extended to the highest levels of our organization, where he served on the International Board of Directors and as International President of ACBS. During his tenure, Gene focused tirelessly on keeping the membership connected with original and modern preservation techniques while mentoring the next generation of classic boaters.
Gene Porter in Miss Nancy.
Now making his home on Lake George and maintaining his summer ties to Lake Champlain, Gene remains an energetic, dedicated presence whose friendship, enthusiasm, and stewardship embody the spirit of the classic boating world.
Gene, thank you for your decades of leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our hobby.
Happy 90th Birthday, Gene! May your waters always be calm and your brightwork forever shining.