John,
I dont think anybody suggested banning the use of GPS units for training or similar. But at a largish regatta it might be sensible to have a rule on GPS units and similar to make the competition be about sailing and skill. The tape idea came up becouse a couple of us would dearly like to see some GPS plots from the top boats at Mumbles GC'08. If we agree to race without GPS units, taping the display is just a way to not give anybody an advantage (which they dont need anyway, since they are in the top <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> ).
Rules are rules, if there would be a ballot on this issue I would never vote for it.
Basically I believe that banning GPS/log devices would hurt inexperienced sailor most because there is one less tool to be used to observe how your trim changes affect your speed when driving straight line. More experienced sailors don't need these as much because they know in advance how trim should be changed, also more experienced sailors tend to have better feel on their boat and speed. Bottom line is that knowing your speed is most important thing when developing your sailing skills and these devices cost lot less than a good coach, rib and a video camera <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />.
