Hydroplane driver, designer

The third-generation powerboater is one of only five drivers who have won four National High Point Championships in powerboat racing’s Unlimited category (1991, 1994, 1995, 1997). The other four are longtime inductees Dean Chenoweth, Chip Hanauer and Bill Muncey, and fellow nominee Dave Villwock. Tate was elected to the APBA Unlimited Hall of Champions those same four years. The Michigander also earned two APBA Gold Cup wins (1991, 1994). A classic Tate Unlimited performance came at the 1997 Honolulu season finale, where he had a “perfect” weekend: fastest qualifier, record speed, and victory in all four heats. The performance clinched his fourth Unlimited championship. Between 1990 and 2000, Tate contested 88 Unlimited races, winning 12 and finishing in the top three in 46. Tate began his Unlimited career in 1990 when he was named Rookie of the Year. Before that, he had been a three-time National High Point Champion in the 850-CC Class (1980, 1981, 1982) and two-time National High Point Champion in the 7-Litre Class (1986, 1988). Today, Tate manages son Andrew’s team.