Sailing the GX-1

Designed by Bob Gray; Construction by Bob Gray and Corey Hughes (owner)

Construction period 22 April 2005—21 August 2005

Rigging and finish work: 22 August  - December 07, 2005

The maiden voyage on Houghton Lake proves that the wheel system makes for effortless launching, as witnessed by Bob. The boat is rolled right into the trailer on the wheels and then the rear axle locks to the floor and holds the boat while transporting.

After several looonnng hours of  hooking up all the tabs and parts, the fun began! Although the wind was only about 3mph, the boat sailed wonderfully right out of the gate. It rode extremely comfortably, was quite lively even in such light air, and best of all, absolutely nothing broke or fell off. We will give it the real test this weekend when we return to Houghton Lake!

RETURN TO GTIYC HOME PAGE

 

GX-1 INDEX PAGE 1                                                                            FUSELAGECONSTRUCTION PHOTOS PAGE 2

 

FUSELAGE CONSTRUCTION PHOTOS PAGE 3                      SPRINGBOARD AND PLANK CONSTRUCTION PHOTOS PAGE 4

 

MAST CONSTRUCTION PAGE 5                                                         STEERING - FINISHING AND RIGGING  PAGE 6

 

                 SAILING THE GX-1 PAGE 7

RETURN TO GTIYC HOME PAGE

Houghton Lake—December 9-11, 2005

The moment of truth came and the GX-1 passed with flying colors!

After two and a half days of 15-25 mph winds, more than 500 miles of full-throttle, white knuckle sailing and one flip over in the pits when a tremendous gust caught me off guard, we are proud to report that nothing broke, came apart or fell off. In fact, the craft met or exceeded our expectations. Right out of the box it performed with almost frightening acceleration. The cockpit is very comfortable and provides fast and easy ingress and egress. We are pleased almost beyond words. Without question, it is going to be an exciting season!

Bob Gray (designer and senior builder of the GX-1) poses alongside his completed project.