Arko,
That's a very nice looking boat you've got there. Two questions about structure, (and I preface this by stating that I've never built an SOF boat) You've got a shorter strip running fore and aft, midway between the keel and sheer. What does that piece lend to the form? Is it temporary for construction purposes to be removed later when the boat starts getting used?

From looking at the structure at this point, it appears that the boat's main load bearing forms are the sheer and keel with the ribs serving to define the fullness of the hull at each section.

Your answer can serve to enlighten this wood/composite builder of canoes and kayaks for sailing. I hope to, one day, clear my shop of current projects and build one of these beautiful, traditional craft.

Chris Ostlind