Hi Kirt,
It really is a crying shame that we cannot get a class of F16s going here in the U.S. Calvert has gotten away from beach cats in the last few years because so many classes require factory-supplied sails.
Just had lunch with him the other day and he would love to get back into the beach cat scene, but the factory sails is a killer for inventive and creative sailmakers.
I told him how the F18 classes is really taking off and they are wide open for sails. I wish I could have told him the same about the F16 or the F14, but alas, I could not.

He is willing to sponsor a team with new and creative sails, if it is in a class that is growing, shows up for events, and has good exposure. Otherwise, there would be nothing in it for him.

I know I was really excited about the F16 Class when I first got my 4.9, but that bubble has since been busted.
We really need to do something like the F18 Class and get folks out sailing.
The best way I know of is to get an email list and keep in communication so we all agree as to what events to attend.

As it is, my poor 4.9 just sits there gathering dust and mildew.

On another note, Kirt, since you are so up on the Taipan 4.9, have they ever improved the rudder system? I have probably lost more races with this boat than any I have because of the rudders.., HOLD ON! The worst was the Mystere. But both are close.

For example, while racing in the Miami-Key Largo Race against about 300 boats, I had a great start and was 20-miles in to the course and close to the lead boats (SC30, RC27 and the like) and started slowing down due to weeds on the rudder.
So, yanked up on that dumb rudder stick (the one with the downward pin that goes into a hard-to-find hole) and the entire rudder came off the pindle.
That was some sort of fun trying to line up those holes in rock and roll seas. I was at least 45 minutes in doing so. Needless to say, my finish was not that good.
And one time I hit something and instead of the rudder popping up, the stick bent.

The best rudder system I have ever seen was very simple. The Nacra 6.0 had a foolproof system that basically used ropes. It always worked.
In fact, that is what my Taipan 5.7 uses and it works great.
Apparently, in Australia, they must not have sand bars, kelp and only sail out of Yacht Clubs.

If you hear of any improvements, or if you have any suggestion, I would love to hear from you.., or anyone, for that matter.

Thanks,
Rick