Trouper 2 with almost three years of growth.

The last time I hauled T2 out for bottom paint was November 9, 2014. That was also shortly after she went up on the beach and had to have some reconstructive surgery to her hull and her rudder straightened. I had planned on bottom painting every 2 years but this is when I finally got around to it. 

It was much nicer to come out for regularly scheduled maintenance rather than repairs. And really, she didn't have that much growth considering how long she'd been in the water. The zinc was gone. That had been replaced last August 16th at the same time I replaced my mooring anchor line. There were more barnacles than I'd like, and a few muscles but by and large, she was in really good shape.

Oh, Tom helped me out by replacing the thru valve in the head so that the kids can now brush their teeth in the bathroom sink when we go cruising.

After power washing all the growth off her, I gave her a light sanding, popped and filled the blisters, sanded the fill and finally applied two coats of bottom paint.

It was a lot of work and I've still got bottom paint under my nails but once again she's a lean, clean, speed machine!

The Admiral stopped by to show his support. After 35 years of doing her bottom, he was only too glad to pass the torch to me.

Tom and Dad chat while the bottom glistens after being power washed.

Hull blisters popped and patched.

Ready to go back in the water with her new paint job!