Hi Jeff,
Matt had kept me updated a bit by e-mail on the sea-trials, but of course I am jealous that you have actually yourself sailed in her. I really cannot wait, after all I know from the long design phase, how many new ideas have gone into her in addition to what was already in and learned from the SeaRaider.
BTW, the waterballast system is such a treasure, not just for the heavy weather but especially for learning and training. Last weekend I took out two fairly inexperienced parties on \\\'Craic\\\', which were a bit timid to start with as we had a gusty F5. So we started with the ballast tank full, which made the boat fully selfrighting, and they quickly learned the boat and the handling and built up confidence. Only after all that was smooth, we emptied the tank, and just flew, and they were totally happy with everything. The waterballasting is a great way to learn sailing.
Because of the dual character of the boat, workhorse AND racehorse, which I have only now experienced fully with my SR, I have actually changed my plans for naming the BR. I will give her a double name, to signal the two distinct characters. I thought of \\\'War & Peace\\\' or \\\'Gin & Tonic\\\' but I have now settled for the most obvious: \\\'Jekyll & Hyde\\\' .
Good luck for your own boat, see you on the water or at Beale Park!
Claus
