When you say someone needs to step up right away...um...last time I got some sponsorship, I had to go to them and make the case that it would be worth their time and money, via publicity and brand exposure, etc. Has anyone called Larry Ellison? He already knows what a catamaran is, and should quickly understand exactly what it is we are trying to do, and you can sell it as 'gaining public awareness which will increase interest in his upcoming AC races in SFO..." or what have you. Has anyone called him? And or Jimmy Buffett? Tell him Larry Ellison wants to rent out his new hotel for a weekend of catamaran racing, etc.

These guys understand marketing, it shouldn't be too hard a pitch, easier still if you tell them they can race in it too! (give them a 'sponsor spot' and then try not to hit them)