Brandon takes 1st Place in the Men's Sea Kayak Division in the new Grand Illusion.
Excerpts from Brandon: Sterling asked me if I would field-test the new Grand Illusion design for its "rapid transit" qualities. It's viability as a big boy's rock garden-hopper, surf-lander, gear-hauler and overall expedition survival pod are already accepted by the who's who of the the Pacific Northwest expedition paddlers...and now it's rapid transit quality has indeed been established. Despite it's ability to carve like a surfboard, the boat cruises easily enough to take the win in the Sea Kayak Class and finish 35th overall. With a little more time in the boat to get the outfitting and trim tuned to my weight and inseam, another minute or two could have been shaved. If we could add in a 30-knot wind and head-high wave, I think the Grand Illusion would've been laughably more competitive.... I cruise Grand Illusion @ 5.5 mph
Brandon Nelson, Bellingham, WA 1st place SK-M, 61:27
Sterling "It's invaluable to me to have the world-class kayaker, Brand Nelson, paddle my NEW GRAND ILLUSION in the Deception Pass Dash. It really shows the potential of this kayak. Thank you, Brandon. "
Brandon's Height: 6'6" Weight: 240 lbs.
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A new Kayak design takes years of development and testing.
The Grand Illusion was developed at the urging of George Gronseth of Kayak Academy. George had a lot of input in this Kayak.
Reg Lake, explorer, inventor and one of the original developers of the Kayaking Sport in the USA has been helping, testing and inventing through the whole process. There has been much testing by Pacific Northwest Paddlers.
I have worked hard for this project to come to it's final stage--an actual performance kayak for camping, expeditions and for larger paddlers.
We are amazed at the end product, grateful for all the input and help.
Come enjoy a test paddle, Sterling |
