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OSTAR Qualification Update
First off qualification. After trying to qualify and failing at the 400 nm mark (see previous post) it became apparent that qualification in late 2008 in the North Sea was going to be impossible. I made one more attempt at it but failed due to lack of wind. Basically Poor conditions, longer nights and a delay in getting the boat back after the 1st attempt were the cause. I know plan on qualifying in late March
Some more news..
My insurance renewal came around and Richard at Fastnet Marine did an excellent job of securing me general cover as well as cover for the OSTAR. A condition of the insurance was a survey so having investigated local surveyors I settled on Ian of ANDMarine Ltd. He did a super job and during the process discovered some gel cracks around the keel. As a result of this Ninjod was hauled and peeled to investigate the issue further. Following on from that NINJOD’s rig and keel have now been removed while the crazing is fixed under the supervision of Ian. The work is due to be complete in February.
I met some other OSTAR competitors at the boat show, Rob, Will, Oscar and Katie. We all swapped preparation stories. Aside from my keel problem, which is now outsourced to SYH, I think I have had it fairly easy.
This years boat show purchases include an AirBreeze wind generator and a new MPPT solar panel controller from Morningstar.
I have removed gas from Ninjod and plan to go with a Origo 3000 meths stove.
Mr Stainless at SYH are busy constructing new vanes for my Atoms as well as bespoke interior handrails and 2 external handrails.
Pretty much every Sunday between now and the end of February has been booked out for finishing off the jobs list.
Once re-launched I will commission every instrument, do some local sea trails and then head to the Plymouth qualifying on the way.
Happy New Year to you all.
