USA C1 Olympic boat

[iTOMCO]

Just wanted to let everyone know that Benn Fraker qualified the olympic spot by placing 5th in the Augsburg World Cup last weekend.

What is also really great is that he did it in a boat designed by himself last fall, which I build here in ottawa, canada. The boat is called the Absolute and my company name is iTOMCO. I am very proud to say I just completed the 50th boat and going strong.

I encourage everyone looking for a new boat to look into north american manufacturers, as the support you give these companies not only supports the economy, but also indirectly supports USA and Canadian athletes. In many cases such as my boats, the boat is significantly cheaper as well because of transport costs, duties and taxes.

Anyways congratulations to Benn, and look for him in the upcoming games!

[John Coraor]

It's great that there are some new slalom designs being created on this side of the "pond." What is the weight range for the Absolute?

As a former racer who is now an "old, slow, fat guy," I don't fit into the same hulls that Tony Estanguet and Michal Martikan paddle. I'm more at the upper end of the Robin Bell - Loco design range.

John

[Alden]

Tom, like I told Benn, I think it's so cool that you guys are making boats here in North America. I can't wait to try Benn's when he gets back. If I can get down to his seat -- that's a separate issue!

Alden

[msims]

Itomco of itomco tm kiteboards in ottawa!? NO WAY!!!

Tom - i bought your last wujam... can i pick it up tomorrow night?

Mike.

[Al Greve]

Thats way cool Tom!!!
As my girls Aliesha & Emily move along we will consider your C1 in a Absolute, will you consider making a smaller version in volume? As the girls right now are paddling Lizards that are sm with extra sm sterns.

[knu2xs]

If I can get down to his seat -- that's a separate issue!

Alden

What seat? Isn't the plan just to thicken up the foam core where the pedestal usually is for Benn's next boat? An inch and a half is not a pedestal.