23' Garofalo Sliding-Seat Trainer (1964) - DETERMINATION

Determination is a 1960’s era Wherry Trainer by Joseph Garofalo (Worcester, Massachusetts). She was found in near-derelict condition in 2015. Owner restored and subsequently campaigned in the Great Peconic Race, an elite rowing / paddling event around Shelter Island, New York. Considerable work was involved to straighten the keelson, repair frames, and re-attach the keelson to the hull structure. An external carbon fibre skin set in epoxy was applied by vacuum bagging, using a home made vacuum pump. This carbon fibre laminate leaves the original structure fully intact and sealed, while adding strength and considerable beauty to the overall boat. Custom riggers and a modern slide were fabricated by Carl Douglas Racing Shells (UK). Determination completed the 17 Nautical Mile open-water race around Shelter Island in just under 4 hours. A sistership to Determination, in original, unrestored condition, can be found in the Small Boats Collection at the Mystic Seaport Museum.

2023 Update – Determination competed in (and finished) the 2022 Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston, Massachusetts. Veteran Singles.