Fundraiser For Family Of Boat Race Crash Victim

The “Repeat Offender” on its way into the first turn of the race, photographed here just seconds before the fatal collision. (Photo courtesy Ray Chiste)

LACEY – A fundraiser for the family of a boat racer killed during a race will be held on Aug. 17, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Captain’s Inn tiki bar, 304 East Lacey Road. The rain date is Aug. 24.

David Raabe was racing in a boat named “Repeat Offender” in the Point Pleasant Beach Offshore Grand Prix on May 21. The vessel pulled in front of another vessel, which resulted in a collision. Raabe was pronounced dead soon after the crash. The other operator in the vehicle, James Byrne of Nutley, was injured.

The fundraiser will be used to help his wife and children with their bills.

Tickets for the event cost $25 each. Included in the entrance fee is a dinner buffet and non-alcoholic drinks. There is a silent auction, t-shirts and other fundraising material for sale, and race boats on display. Live music will be by Matt Noffsinger. Those coming by boat can reserve a slip for a $20 donation. Those who wish to attend, but not have dinner, do not have to purchase a dinner ticket.

Donations can be made to the Raabe Family, P.O. Box 1044, Forked River, NJ 08731. For information on how to sponsor the event, or supply them with silent auction items, contact Melissa Przemielewski at 732-620-7287. For more information, visit davidraabememorial.com.