I took a little bit of advice from each of the responses. Thanks. I drilled holes at the bend in the base of the front panel, where Mar-K Tech suggested, but centered them in the small gaps between the bed boards where the metal strips go.

Had a delay because two of my bedboards from Mar-K came through damaged in shipment. Mar-K quickly dispatched 2 replacements. Good folks to work with.

I am using a different finish this time..3-4 coats of Sikkens Marine Light followed by 3 coats of Marine Gloss. Folks down on the Gulf Coast have been pleased with this combo for teak boats decks