2016 Clipper Cup - a couple of "Firsts"

[Apex]

...well hopefully a bullet as well, but I am really speaking to "personal" first times.

First - "real" distance race
First - trip across Lake Michigan.

Next Friday I have opportunity to crew on a Nelsen Marek 43, Vivienne out of Muskegon Yacht Club. I got to take a pleasure cruise this weekend, and REALLY look forward to racing on her this weekend. Running backstays, 3spd winches and a huuuuge open cockpit all lend to the race-i-ness of the boat.

I have crewed on a couple of buoy races, and have raced my own boat in our marina's "rum cup" for the last 3years, but that is a different league to this event. Thanks to Scott Jacobson for the invite, and owner Tom for allowing this to happen.

I will (hopefuly) report back with some favorable results.

 

[Jackdaw]

Have fun! The N/M 43 is a fast boat and can stand the test of time if well maintained!

 

[Apex]

We took a cruise on her last weekend to see fireworks and night sail: Vivienne was just refitted, starting from laying upside down on a trailer with no keel. Looks well sorted after finding the local carbon and kevlar expert to help with the hull.

 

[pateco]

We took a cruise on her last weekend to see fireworks and night sail: Vivienne was just refitted, starting from laying upside down on a trailer with no keel. Looks well sorted after finding the local carbon and kevlar expert to help with the hull.

Pictures?

 

[Apex]

I didn't get any pictures, too busy playing with all of the controls. A friend that went along posted to facebook, but don't know how to link those. For those interested in a SIMILAR boat, this happens to also be in Muskegon. http://placeaboat.com/ad/1993-nelson--marek-43
I think there were only 9 boats built, Vivienne is one of the latter, but a bit heavier, as the hull contains fiberglass and carbon rather then carbon/kevlar buildup like the last version.