Rob. Is there a fleet of one design racers in your driving area? Do they go racing in sufficient numbers and often enough for you to want to join them? If the answer is yes and yes... great.

If not, Your 5.2 looks like its in great shape and its a very nice sailing boat. You may not need to change rides... Perhaps a charter or loan from a friend will get you to the Midwinters.

With proper racing sails, your boat should be equal to a Hobie 18 on the water and much faster then a Hobie 16. Now if your sails are as old as the boat...