Final chapter for 1999


David, one of the engineers at Bulldog Equipment in Stockport puts the finishing
touches to the resurescted centre board winch.

Shiny new spreader to replace the old junk!

New arms too! The mast in the background is from a Flying Fifteen and is
a good fit for J23. Wooden mast for best (showing off!) - Ali for racing.

The new stainless and aluminium winch was the last piece to be fitted. Festina is now complete. She is a working racing dinghy once again.

After spending four months in the workshop J23 finally leaves for her winter storage. I can't bring myself to sail her just yet. The weather is cold and windy, I am very tired and I feel that the thought of 'Festina' surfing up Loch Ness in the spring is worth savouring.

Restoring an 18ft boat in a 18ft 9 inch long workshop is not to be recommended. You have to get used to walking sideways, crawling about in the dust and trying not to get too upset about flaws in the varnish. I wouldn't do it again, once is enough, but if you do it right once is all you need.

Look out for the next chapter in the saga when we take to the water next year. Thanks to all those who helped with advice, specialist knowledge about the class and expertise when i ran into trouble.

Best Wishes - J23

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