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Surfboard with a big block...

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by YachtForums, Jan 15, 2025.

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  1. YachtForums, Jan 15, 2025
    #1
    YachtForums

    YachtForums Administrator

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    In reading the news about Rich Lazzara's lost battle with ALS, I'm reminded of a friend I lost to the disease in 2023. His name was Steve Bastardi; one of the brightest guys I've ever known. Back in the 80's, he set up the first microwave communications systems to connect data centers and bank branches. Years later, he built a wireless ISP that services Sebring, Lake Placid and surrounding communities.

    Steve and I raced offshore boats together in the 1980s. I went on to bigger boats but he never lost the need for speed. He always had a fascination with drag boats. Prior to developing ALS, he had been putting the finishing touches on his dream boat; a blown Cole Hydro. Like everything Steve did, it was done to perfection. He also built a dedicated website to document the rebuild of the boat.

    His wife is selling the boat if you're brave enough to strap your butt to a surfboard with a big block.

    http://www.dragboatfever.com/

    ***

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  2. Capt Ralph, Jan 15, 2025
    #2
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    Wow, That would be awesome, up river here. :D
  3. rtrafford, Jan 15, 2025
    #3
    rtrafford

    rtrafford Senior Member

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    Is that an EV, and does it come with a charging station? Asking for a friend...
  4. Capt Ralph, Jan 15, 2025
    #4
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    That is the charging station with the blower and pipes.
    The Torqeedo drive is down below.

    Tell your friend I said hi.. :rolleyes:
  5. SplashFl, Jan 16, 2025
    #5
    SplashFl

    SplashFl Senior Member

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    Reminded me of a 120 mph ride ages ago in similar. He did slow down to around 80 when going under the low Sunrise Blvd. bridge.
  6. mapism, Jan 16, 2025
    #6
    mapism

    mapism Senior Member

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    [​IMG]
    I'm sure it must have been carefully tuned, but the offset to starboard of the rudder blade looks mental!
    Any idea of top speed?
  7. Capt Ralph, Jan 16, 2025
    #7
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    That prop must throw up a rooster tail, tall enough to wash cars on the Sunrise Blvd bridge.
    That prop wash would probably rip that rudder rite off the boat.
    To stb, the rudder is in cleaner water to control the boat.

    Also mental is the trim tab, required to keep the boat level when that prop tries to torque-roll the boat over.
  8. YachtForums, Jan 19, 2025
    #8
    YachtForums

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    I know canopied top-fuel drag boats can reach speeds in excess of 250 mph. I’m curious how fast the boat is too, but my No Fear sticker expired years ago.
  9. Capt J, Jan 19, 2025
    #9
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    Reall cool boat, my dad had a v-drive with only a 327ci when I was a kid that did mid 90's. Way too much drama and maintenance to keep that thing running. I'd guess 120-140 mph.

    I have a 2016 20' Lanier custom boat (cat) setup for flats fishing, it does 96 mph with a stock 2022 400R on it. My buddy has one with a 450R tuned that so far has done 124 mph, in a fishing boat. LOL I'd post a picture but forgot how to do it. The outboards just run, hit the start button and go fast with reliability. I can do 75 mph with ease in a 2' chop comfortably, safely, and dry, have tons of storage, and can seriously flats or bass fish it. One with a stock 450R does 117-120 mph.

    Lanier Custom Boats