If you're from Pensacola you must run into Bob from time to time and race head up, eh?

I talked to an F17 sailor last weekend, he has all the possible upgrades fitted and its looked pretty cool.

Upgrades:
-Infusion mast (original length).
-New mailsail (to match new mast).
-PBO rigging (shrouds and forestay).
-Carbon spin pole.
-Dyneema trapeze.
-Sheeting from the boom.

He was very pleased with his new rig and said it was a big improvement over the old one, the boom was a bit too long now though so if he where to replace it it would probably be with a carbon one.

once or twice. no competition really (and I wish that statement were in my favor <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" /> )

I believe back in the day, they had like A Fleet, B Fleet, C Fleet, etc. Now days due to the lack of catamaran sailors relatively new guys have to go up against the top sailors. This really isn't proving anything about the boat they are sailing........

Tom

I agree with your statement about newbies starting out against the top guys. I feel for them.

If our F 17 fleet continues to grow we plan on developing a B fleet. Back in the day the boats weren't so hi tech. I remember getting hammered by the top guys but the distances were far less than it seems to be now with all the advances in speed. But just like back in the day, the top guys need to take the time and talk to the new people and give encouragement. I remember how easy it was to approach Randy Smyth and ask questions and get answers that I could understand. Matt Struble went out of his way to pass on his F 17 knowledge to the rest of the guys. Bob Curry is very helpful with advice. All classes have someone willing to help the newbies, they are our future. Us old farts aren't gonna last forever.

That's one of the reasons to promote this Gold Cup. Get newbies involved.

not so much on the forum

Another person who is really helpful is Rick Bliss.