ABOUT THE RACER:

If it has a name; it is the X-3 Stiletto Mark II.

If it has a back story; it is the pride and joy of Gowan Farr, owner and operator of Farr Space Transport Industries.

The ship was commissioned by him for us in the Neptune/Triton Jump Races which are held annually by the Tritonian Chamber of Commerce to promote their business philosophy of, "We may be the coldest place in the solar system, but that doesn't mean we can't have Fun!"

The X-3 Mark II is designed for close atmospheric passage through the thick methane layer of Neptune's atmosphere where the ship's twin scram Bussard scoops force the methane into a dense fuel source for the boost to Triton.

Farr has also been known to use the racer for very brief appearances at the Reno, Nevada Air Races. Traveling at Mach 10+, his appearances only last about a half a second. But it's enough to cause great havoc with the resulting sonic booms and gives Mr. Farr great pleasure.

ABOUT THE MODEL:

It's obvious this creation was based on the Douglas X-3 that Lindberg released this year. The original body has been modified, shifted in scale from 1/48 the 1/72 by adding the cockpit of a P-51D. Other additions include various parts from my collection of inexpensive Star Wars Episode One sell outs and a few jet fighter tidbits.

The model was originally built as a means of transportation for another of my literary characters, who will remain nameless for the sake of my anonymity in this contest.

It sat on top of a cabinet for several months glaring at me in its primer grey undercoat, until you guys announced you contest. Thank you for giving this vessel a purpose! I still procrastinated until I could arrive at a paint scheme, which I thought should be gaudy like all race vehicles, but I wanted a refined edge.

Image: Top view

Image: Fly-by

Image: Front view

Image: Side view