Chekika wrote:
Roadrunner needs a monument erected... at Hobie headquarters
I contacted headquarters today and let them know that nothing fancy would be necessary -- bronze would be sufficient, and perhaps a new car to visit them with occasionally. Oh yes, and a new kayak! They said they'd get back to me -- sounds encouraging!
I don't understand what they were laughing about though...
Seriously, most of us on the forum have shared tips, experience, methods and ideas, exposed problem areas and explored limitations. I recall, for example the great benefit I received from consulting the "New Rudder up/Down Line" thread where Rio Dan, Chekika and Stringy each built upon the basic instruction to come up with an excellent tutorial that helped make the job easy.
This is a very creative and talented group that builds upon ideas and creates significant improvements. Just a sampling of some things that come to mind -- Yakaholic's "D" topped rudder pin, troubleshooting and fishing techniques; Gwiz's early AI sailing methods equipment insights and spray shields; reconlon's refinements and great equipment tips; Kepnutz' rudder mast and sail work; stringy's rudder mods, sails, carts, roller reefing; Aloha Dan's high speed trolling techniques under sail; Apalach's early outriggers, rigging and equipment experience; norman ernsting's early jib and leeboard development; Chekika's outfitting tips... it just goes on and on!
There is a rich body of knowledge here with which we provide mutual assistance -- and an excellent resource for any who seek. There are certainly a lot of other people's ideas sitting on my boat! Thanks to all here for their generous time an talent and to Hobie for letting us play on their forum!!8)