WASP — Ern Nunn
Every powerboat racing enthusiast in Australia and New Zealand knows Ernie Nunn and WASP. Almost 70 years young (not old). Ern holds the title of Australia’s Grandfather of speed boat racing. The recipient of much acclaim and many trophies and awards, he outclasses almost any other hydro driver, engine expert and hydroplane authority in country. His use of the best and most expensive European racing engines for hydroplane work is legendary. Ferrari engines have powered his last three boats — one of them regaining the Griffith Cup from New Zealand in 1962. The new 25 foot long WASP has a 51/2 litre V8. Maserati mounted beneath the cowling. Perfectly finished in every detail, even to the hand built aluminum trailer specially constructed for this new craft, Ern’s boat reflects the endless hours and full time devotion necessary to produce a griffith Cup winner. 1948. 1962, 1965 and 1968 were all WASP years, and in 1972 Ern will be trying for his fifth Griffith Cup win.