After the inspection was complete, the windsled was moved to the Madeline Island Marina where it was unloaded for its performance evaluation.

     The below series of photos show windsled entering marina. As it passes by, Ronnie Nelson can be seen at the wheel.

     La Pointe Assistant Clerk Barb Nelson checking out the new windsled during a well deserved break. Barb had the job of filing the mountain of documents that were required over the entire grant and bid process.

     Husky Manager Rick Chapman spent the day instructing Arnie and Ronnie Nelson on the operation of the new windsled. Arnie Nelson is shown at the wheel.

     Group photo at the end of the two day evaluation. Left to right, Bob Tiahntbok (Husky Windsled construction specialist), Rick Chapman (Husky Manager & operation instructor), Arnie Nelson (Operator), Ronnie Nelson (Operator) and Norman (Mascot).

     Photo of Ronnie Nelson next to windsled at the end of the test. Everyone gave the little sled two thumbs up, way up! I think the best way to describe the launch of the new sled and its performance is to borrow a statement once recorded in a Milwaukee paper describing the launch of a beautiful schooner, “ ...the noble ship slid off the ways in fine style and took to the water very kindly, riding gracefully as a swan.”