D-day is coming. The first Blade for Europe is expected in the first half of Mai on the Dutch coast. It (he or she ?)will be located at the beach sailing club "Skuytevaert" in Katwijk. It can be seen there almost every sunday afternoon at het club races. I heard that the owner plans to participate in the Round of Texel. This is a first small step for the Blade-owner but a giant step for mankind as you all will agree

I'm extremely exited as I have sailed all makes now with the exception of Phill Branders Blade F16. I'm quite anxious to test it and tune it up with Jaap. Alot of people I trust and respect have made great comments on the boat after sailing it and it just looks right. This month, in the spring cup racing, we had 5 new capricorn F18's racing and they just move so beautifully through the water. It just looks great. The Blade F16 looks like the boat that should have been designed by a big builder years ago. It is just so perfect for a sizeable portion of the sailing public.

I'm also anxious to see and sail the new Glenn Ashby sails. I hear the combo is a good one as well. And I will say here in public that working with Glenn Ashby is a dream. He did sponsor our the New South Wales F16 challenge cup in the very beginning and he still is one of the most dependable pilars under the F16 class. It must be said that he takes time and makes the effort to supply F16 customers with very good sails and come through on all deals. I think this had to be said in public in recognision of his way of working. I can warmly recommend Glenn if you need new sails. Sadly he does not do spinnakers yet but I hope he will soon.

But back to the Blade (and Ashby sails combo) I really think this can be a winner in European terms. It certainly will be at my home club. I expect to see 2 more at my club alone. Lets get going ! Lets grow this F16 class !

Wouter

the blade is not making this journey on his own sailing power. It is in a big box called container. Just in case ............