Steering system worked flawlessly, boat balance seemed excellent, handling was great--that is about all I found out as the engine quit making noise after about 5 minutes and I paddled back to shore. so much for this week--next test day is the following Tuesday--it ain't easy here in California--cost me a hunnerd bucks for a 5 minute ride! PS I ran the full race 3 years ago and won the Division, 7th overall (with no cowling). Today, I wish I had a cowling.