To: Jim Budde

[Ariel]

Tell me about your Bobcat--is this the Bolger/Payson design? Did you build it yourself? If so, how long ago? I am always interested in communications with owners of the Bobcat design, because I, too, have one--her name is PYXIS and she was built in 1998--a friend roughed out the hull and spars and I finished the boat, including the sail which I made from Oceanus sailcloth. I would be interested in hearing about your boat....thanks

[Jim Budde]

I built it in 1999 from Bolger / Payson plans. Modified plans to more reflect original Bettle Cat now mfg'd by Concordia. Eliminated seat in back for more room, and added a short deck piece on stern so I could install a metal traveler. Also added a drain plug. Made wood blocks and wood hoops. At the time I did not know about bird mouth, so made hollow mast the old fashioned way .. kinda like a barrel. Last, used cedar strips for deck and finished bright instead of plywood called for in plans. I had sail made according to specs, but she sails better with a reef, points much tighter and does not seem to lose any speed. I hope to have her out one more time this Saturday .. if all goes according to plan, I'll post a pic or two

[Ariel]

Thanks for responding....is your hollow mast very flexible? PYXIS' s mast is 2 2x4's epoxied together --very heavy. Gaff and boom are according to plans. I had the seat originally but removed it. I like the extra space, too. The floorboards rotted so I am in the process of replacing them. Didn't put in a plug because she lives in the water behind my house. Good idea though, because she is like a big bathtub! I only pull her to paint the bottom once a year. PYXIS is what I call workboat quality--no fine finishes, varnishes, etc--just paint. Lots of fun to sail. Thanks for sharing....would love to see a picture. I don't have that ability through the forum, but if you would like, I can e-mail you a photo to your home site.