Jan 31, 2023

By Andy Adams

It was a standing room crowd at the NMMA Canada State of the Recreational Boating Industry Breakfast on Tuesday January 24^th and I was again honored to be the opening host. The program featured several important sessions beginning with the NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer who was in attendance to join NMMA Canada Chairman JF Rioux to present a special award to Sara Anghel recognizing her many contributions to the industry and the NMMA Canada. Sara has now departed her position at the NMMA to be the new President of the Greater Toronto Hotel Association. 

JF Rioux (left) and Frank Hugelmeyer present Sara Anghel with a award for her service to the NMMA Canada

As the primary sponsor, Wells Fargo again brought Managing Director and International Economist, Nick Bennenbroek to deliver a broad-ranging review of the economic conditions the boating industry in Canada faces. There was a lot to absorb in this session but my overall take-away was that 2023 can be expected to be a good year for boating.

Kevin Williams, Vice President, North American Marketing for the NMMA gave an update on the Discover Boating program.

Bob Clark (centre) and JF Rioux (right) induct Bill Connor of Stanley Boats to the NMMA Canada Hall of Fame

One of the most important sessions was the presentation of the NMMA Canada Hall of Fame Award. Bob Clark, Contracts Manager at MetalCraft Marine Inc., gave the tribute to Bill Connor who established Stanley Boats, the Lighthouse boats brand and who recently bought into MetalCraft Marine.

Jonathan Levine, General Manager at Mercury Canada presented Les Sparks (left) with a special memorial award.

Closing out the event, Jonathan Levine, General Manager at Mercury Canada gave a tribute to Les Sparks for his remarkable 50-year career with Mercury as he prepares to enter retirement.

Thanks to all who got up early to join us for this informative and enjoyable event!