I have traded in my Wave for a Getaway and have been invited by the 16 sailors to join in the weekend races. I am not sure what to expect in relative performance as I have never raced with 16s. Is it possible for the Getaway to be competitive (i.e. heavy winds)? Thanks.

I'm confused.

If they're inviting you to join their "class" meaning everythings supposedly rated equally, 1st across the line == 1st place or are they going to basically make their 16 class an open fleet and race everyone on portsmouth?

Well, the Portsmouth handicap numbers are 81.6 for the Getaway and 76.1 for the H16.
On handicap racing they would owe you about 5 minutes per hour. So, on an average local pond race of 1/2 hour, let's say you finished within a minute of the H16, on handicap you would win, event though they finished first.

Boat for boat, and equal sailors, you will get hammered.
Although the numbers for the Getaway are probably established by pretty bad sailors, while the numbers for the 16 are from pretty seasoned sailors with a lot of 16 experience.
So, if they are so-so, and you are hot, you might beat them.

Or just have fun.

Good luck,
Rick

Thanks. You answered my question. I am not sure if the fleet uses a handicap system. I am told on average about 10-12 16s and 3-5 Getaways race each weekend, so there are other Getaways. Knowing what the handicap will help me judge relative success. Now the challenge is to train my 8 year old as crew!

In my experience, the best way to learn is through competition. Not that the competition itself is so very important, rather the racing environment allows you to more easily develop greater skill at a faster rate.

For instance, back in the "old days" it was fairly common to see brand new sailors with the jib sheeted to the wrong side of the boat! By surrounding yourself with very good sailors you'll begin to emulate their habits and pick up pointers you might never discover if left to your own devices.

I don't see how you can loose, just go have fun!