I see on the F-16 website that it says the F16 class fits into the A-Class and can race with them boat for boat. We had hoped that would be the case when we got our Taipan 4.9, but turned out the Taipan is about 2(?) inches too wide. I suppose that is true of all the boats that are built to the maximum-width spec of the Formula 16 class?

If so, perhaps that representation should be removed from the F-16 web site, or modified.

Right now, after reading all the class rules, the big problem I have with them is that they appear to be written to create what is, in essence, a new one-design class with various manufacturers that have slightly different hull designs.

It looks intimidating for home builders and too restrictive to allow much creativity in sail plans and other features of the boat. And I do not get a feeling that it is "welcoming" to other classes that are not fully F-16 compliant but that fit within the specifications.

I think to get an F-16 class going in the U.S. (it certainly is not going yet), it would be nice to come up with a list of all the existing classes that are potentially compliant with F-16 rules and invite them to Open F-16 Events.

The mast-tip-weight issue may be of interest to manufacturers of new boats and masts, but it is a real turn-off when you are trying to get people to come out and race in a new class.