January Build Update
Continuing to make progress on the new boat
Happy new year! Now that it is 2026, we are just a few months away from the Classe Mini 6.50 sailing season and parts of the plan are really starting to come together. Currently, I am in Hawaii providing this update as I complete my upcoming year’s worth of Marine Corps reserve time over the course of a month. This will allow me to focus entirely on the campaign this year.
Also, make sure to listen to my most recent interview on the Cape Horn to Port podcast with fellow Marine and U.S. Patriot Sailing teammate Ronnie Simpson.
The new proto is really taking shape as you can see in the photos here. The carbon hull is now laid consisting of infused carbon. The reinforcing stringers are starting to be laid and the crash bulkhead is now installed near the bow.
There is a foam core that is between the layers of carbon, which you can see here with the deck. Towards the end of this month, I will visit JPS again and provide significantly more detailed updates.
Last month, I also had the opportunity to learn how to foil on a Waszp in Jensen Beach, FL. This was an excellent learning experience on a small dinghy to learn the concept. While this Mini 6.50 is designed fully foil, it will sail differently from the Waszp. Between the large foils coming out of the side of the hull, canting keel, double T foil rudders, and scow bow, the new boat will take some time with a steep learning curve. I am looking forward to this challenge as we plan to launch the boat this spring!
Check out the Waszp foiling on Instagram:
If you missed the videos of the hull mold lifting off the plug, make sure to click on the videos below and follow along @pgnoceanracing
Sailing Terminal Leave in Annapolis this October (Photo Credit: Matt Ellis)
Looking Ahead — The 2027 Mission
While the last campaign focused on raising awareness for U.S. Patriot Sailing, this new mission is about expanding support — enabling the organization to create even more opportunities for veterans.
One major goal of U.S. Patriot Sailing is to introduce a cruising platform where veterans and their families can share calm, restorative experiences on the water — a vital way to strengthen connection and healing.
U.S. Patriot Sailing remains 100% volunteer-run, accomplishing its mission solely through the generous support of individual donors and grants. Together, we can make this next phase possible.
Donate HERE to support the U.S. Patriot Sailing team.
From raising awareness to expanding support — together, we’re building more opportunities for veterans.
Follow the Mission
As this campaign builds momentum, please makes sure you are following along and stay connected:
Website: www.pgnoceanracing.com
Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube (@pgnoceanracing)
Instagram usually has the most frequent and quick updates!
Donate: You can support this new campaign with a tax deductible donation through U.S. Patriot Sailing — helping not only this mission, but also the veterans this organization serves. You can choose where your donation goes exactly: support a local team, this 2027 Mini Transat campaign, or the organization at large. Donate HERE
The support for the 2023 Mini Transat was the foundation for everything we’ve achieved so far. I hope you will be part of the adventure as we set out for this new mission.
New design, new challenge, same mission-driven commitment
Questions? Want to support?
Reach out out to peter@pgnoceanracing.com and jane@pgnoceanracing.com
Watch the video below to learn why I’ve decided to compete in the Mini Transat again:
Is your club, organization, or company interested in hearing about this new mission?
Thank You Sponsors & Supporters of the 2027 Mini Transat Campaign
More news to follow soon on returning & new sponsors!!!!
