J/95 #9 molds next week, and the engineering to replace the keel/centerboard with a fixed keel is in place. Comparing the K/CB version side-by-side to the fixed keel version (drawing 5'6") really helps you see the difference in chord length, and I can't wait to see how she sails in comparison to the standard K/CB configuration which performs great!
This stage is really my favorite part of the job - only with a new boat does every option get chosen purely based on how well it serves the client's needs. Finalizing decisions from sails & electronics to more cosmetic items like Awlgrip & upholstery is a detail-rich process, and watching the boat come together is fun too!