I continually brows this forum because I am VERY interested in a 16 footer and the F16 class.

Perhaps I should have bit my tounge several times, however most of what I have said is because of how much Wouter has pi$$ed me off, both recently and in the past with his uneducated (sailing not engineering) comments.

I have a few direct questions.

1) As the rules currently read, is it possible to build a boat down to min weight with increased hull volume and extensive use of exotics, increasing stiffness, longlivety and structural integrity well beyond what manufactures are currently doing?

2) Will this cost significantly more then the current boats?

3) Will these boats be far superior in performance then the current boats?

4) How will the class prevent this from happening?

Currently manufactures are building down to min weight. Let’s hope they are not under building to achieve this due to customer demands.

5) If it is so important for the class to stick to min weight and the manufacturers are currently achieving this with glass boats and alloy sticks, then should the class restrict the use of composites in the best interest of the manufactures and affordable manufacturing. Current boats can be grandfathered in though?

The class does not have to be hasty and answer here, but can consult with current manufactures, other experienced sailors, industry workers and established classes. If it is a valid concern, then they discuss with their members about changes if any that may be required to the rules in the future.