WHOA!!! As a advocate of the 'box rule" let me voice my thoughts here. Actually, let me say this first -- Mike I respect your position, your thought process's, your abilities as a sailor, and you as a person. But, I do not feel that setting the limits based upon the I20 platform is a sound decision. I agree with someone elses comment about "if you spec out to I20 formulas --- just go support the I20 class" -- or something along that line.
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<br>I have always agreed that the KISS principle is the best. I would advocate a more broad interpretation of the "box"
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<br>weight minimum xxx (I personally think the boat and crew should be totaled together)
<br>Max length 20ft
<br>max width 8' 6"
<br>Max mast 32ft 6"
<br>max sail area XXXX sq ft. (give the sailors the option of what best fits their ability to control, and whats best for their specific boat design) This also makes this more a thinking man's sport -- will some people buy different jib and spinnaker configurations some will. Hell, I have four chutes now!! But, by and large the competition will be more equal and a crew will be more likely to pick what they can handle over what's the biggest. Also, remember we are talking about a formula that is for both bouys and distance racing. The only thing that I can think of that is difficult is when you try to score a NAF 20 using this rule against another non formula boat. Only time will give us the data to compile a true texel or isaf rating everything else is just guess work.
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<br>This most basic formula leads to innovation, allows new builders to come to the table while keeping our "older" designs competitive.
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<br>One thing we must all face is that our boats have a finite livespan. If we try and keep everything in this tightly controled box then there will not be any new blood either in the form of boats or crew.
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<br>Let me step on my soapbox here for a moment and talk about combined weight. I have had 5 crews in the last 8 years. Most bought their own boat and are sailing but the ones who didn't told me that they could just not compete with the "lighter" crewed boats. Remember that the majority of regattas in the US sail in an average wind speed of 8-9 knots. We always hear that heavy guys have an advantage in "big" air. Well, where in the hell is the big air?? If we looked at combined weight then in the average wind speed it would be very much like restrictor plate racing in nascar. Everybody tight and fighting for position. With that I will step down.
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<br>Whichever way the assoc. goes I will support it. However, I feel that freedom to experiment builds competition and thats what racing is all about.<br><br>