March 1st, 2007
Whats Next?
Nick Scandone to sail in the SKUD 18
Many have inquired about the new boat, my upcoming schedule, Hopefully this will answer some of your questions.
Why are you switching classes? I decided to switch classes so I can compete against other disabled sailors with similar disabilities. Most of the 2.4 sailors are classified “4” and above. I was the only sailor classified as a “1”. This switch allows me to compete on a more even playing field.
When is the new boat going to be ready? I hope to have the boat here in California sometime in early May. It is being built in Indonesia. I am still working on getting it shipped here.
Who can sail a SKUD? This Olympic class boat requires two persons. One must be a female. The skipper is required to be a FCS “1” (Functional Classification System) to which I was classified in Miami in 2007.
How much does a new boat cost? With extra sails, canting seats and trailer-somewhere around $30k+. I am in the process of selling my three 2.4 boats, which I hope to sell for $25k.
Have you selected a crew? Not yet, I am considering viable candidates still.
What can you tell me about the SKUD? It is 18ft, two-person, seated at center line with a main, jib, asymmetrical spinnaker and a bulb keel. To learn more go to: http://www.bethwaite.com
What is your upcoming schedule? If all goes well, receive the boat in May, practice May, June and July in Southern California. Then ship boat to east coast for a late July NOOD regatta in Marblehead, MA. Next is Newport, RI for the Clagett in late August. After that is Rochester, NY for the disabled Worlds in early to mid September. Then back to Newport, RI for Olympic Trials in early to mid October.
I would also like to thank all who participated and donated to the Valentine’s Benefit. It was a huge success. I don’t always get to thank all of your personally but can’t tell you enough how much this means to me. I know this will definitely help me get to China in 2008.
Looking forward to all of you seeing the new boat when it arrives and giving some test rides.
