Chapman Marine Group links with a legend

by Bob Wonders on 26 Sep 2007 Mark Chapman, CEO of the Chapman Marine Group and Sydney’s very own 'High Priest of High Performance' has outdone himself this week with the announcement of his appointment as the Australian distributor for the Cigarette Racing Team.

Established by the late and legendary Don Aronow on a dusty North East 188th Street, North Miami Beach, a street which would win fame as ‘Thunderboat Row’, the Cigarette breed has won more powerboat races than any other brand.

Chapman was understandably delighted to make the announcement. 'I have visited the new factory (the company moved into new purpose-built facilities in 2004) and not surprisingly came away very impressed,' he said.

'No muscle boat in the world is as well known or has sheer magic of Cigarette. 'With a little luck we’ll have stock at hand before year’s end,' he added.

Chapman, a former ‘top gun spannerman’ who kept many top race boats running smoothly, has been established as a marine retailer on the Sydney waterfront for more than 26-years.

His company boasts facilities at Rose Bay and at the Birkenhead Point Marina, Drummoyne.

The Chapman Marine Group is also the Australian distributor for Chris-Craft, the Australian distributor, less W.A., for UK luxury motor yacht builder Fairline and the NSW distributor for Regal and Wellcraft.

Chapman’s professionalism was recognised earlier this year when the group’s exhibit was named Best Marina Display at the recent Sydney International Boat Show.

The company was also honoured by Chris-Craft for sales achievement, customer satisfaction and was named #1 international dealer.