49er.. mate...
when the F16hp class rules were first talked about it did have a 9 meter rig (to include the BIMs).. (I have one to the old rules yes grand-fathered) However after the first year the rules were revued the rig was lowered to 8.5.. This wasnt supported by Wouter or myself.. But was supported by the T4.9 guys (AHCP and the crews) and the Stealth guys.. You can revue the discussion on the F16 forum..

Thus while Wouter is the president he doesnt control what the class members decide..

Wouter and I have had a few very heated discussions over rules.. BUT in the end its the majority decision..