Indmar founder chosen for NMMA Hall of Fame

CHICAGO – Indmar Products founder Richard C. (Dick) Rowe will be inducted into the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s Hall of Fame Oct. 27 at the IBEX Industry Breakfast in Miami, the NMMA said in a press release this morning.

The NMMA Hall of Fame Award recognizes those who have or continue to generate “substantial and lasting” contributions toward the advancement of the marine industry. It honors individuals whose names and deeds are synonymous with the pursuit of quality, innovation and perfection within their respective spheres of expertise.

NMMA said Rowe was chosen for its highest honor for contributions spanning four decades.

“Dick Rowe has helped elevate the recreational marine industry for more than 40 years,” said NMMA president Thom Dammrich. “His innovative spirit has turned Indmar Products into the largest privately held manufacturer of gasoline inboard engines, and he has unselfishly donated much of his time to promoting public policy issues that have benefited the entire industry.”

Rowe launched Indmar Products Co. in 1971 after completing a 20-year career with the U.S. Marine Corps. Under his direction, the company was the first to develop inboard engines with computer controlled electronic fuel injection, and it remains the leader in this still emerging technology.

Indmar was also the first to marinize high-tech automotive performance motors, such as the Cadillac Northstar, LS-1 Corvette, General Motor’s Vortec HO 6000 and Vortec HO 8100 engines.

“It’s with great pleasure and tremendous pride to see our industry recognize my father’s contributions,” said Chuck Rowe. “I have been witness to his untiring efforts representing our company, the marine industry and our precious environment. He has been instrumental in guiding and protecting our industry regarding national and international initiatives relative to emissions and fair trade, and he continues to be a guiding force at Indmar, an inspiration to all who work with or around him.

“I know of no one more deserving of this recognition.”

Rowe has received much credit from industry and government leaders for getting the USCG and EPA, as well as the California Air Resources Board involved in developing reasonable regulations regarding catalytic converters and other emission controls.

“Many younger professionals in the engine industry, including myself, see Dick as a mentor,” said Bombardier Recreational Products’ Fernando Garcia. “He has led by example by not only building a strong, respected company, but by also looking beyond the ‘four walls’ of Indmar to help improve the entire industry. NMMA’s recognition of his achievements is much deserved.”

Tickets to attend Rowe’s induction ceremony at IBEX are still available. For information, contact NMMA assistant director of Communications Dan Green at (312) 946-6269; dgreen@nnma.org, or visit www.ibexshow.com.

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