After lengthy discussions with Jonnie and a mix up in communications re. getting a Hyde, I’ve opted for the North V8 to power the new boat. It suits my weight (all 78 kilos). Jonnie has been speaking with Chris Williams and apparently the batten configuration can drastically alter the characteristics of the sail and as Jonnie also has one, we should be able to tune well together.

So it was a quick drive over to Hayling to meet Adam May in a side road like a dodgy stolen goods fence to pick up his little used 2nd hand sail. It’s had the head mod done so that should not cause any concern. It’s also been measured which helps too.

The only ominous thing is that the current number on the sail is “0″ as in zero… does this mean I am destined to come last forever?

Hull wise, I’m doing little bits and bobs like I’ve reinforced the gantry area, built a new prodder (the first one wasn’t stiff enough as I’d not laid up enough unidrectional) and now I’ve built two carbon blocks to go on the deck which will be where I mount the control line cleats following Doug Pybus’s example on his Ninja.

Apart from that, just a FEW bits to get.. Aardvark gantry, Aardvark foils, Aardvark mast, Aardvark boom, ropes, blocks…….

I am hoping to be on the water in time for the Inland nationals at Queen mary on the 8th May. (a little before if possible to iron out any bugs that will inevitably appear)