Can we get numbers for other areas? What are other parts of the country seeing for support for these events?

I've been around for 10 years or so, can't say I remember ever seeing more than 10-15 boats at one of these in Area A. Granted, that was back when Area A and Area B were separate, so theoretically, there should be at least double that since the Areas are combined. That was also back when we were seeing 60 boats at points regattas.

However, this past weekend there were competing events in Area B (CMOR) and neighboring Area C (a Hobie points regatta in NJ). Scheduling issues have been discussed on this forum before, it's not an easy thing to fix (host club restraints, nearby events, etc.).

We used to have this as a stand-alone event in Area A at the Lipton Cup, hosted by Quincy YC (no other multihull classes were racing one-design at the event). Area B used to mix it up (hold in conjunction with an existing Hobie event, in Madison), as was done at Roton. What are other places doing, and what results are you seeing?

If this event is going to continue, it needs a grass-roots revival. You can't "force" anyone to enter this event, if it's going to continue, we need to promote it and get people to WANT to attend. If it's stand-alone, it's going to cost more (per boat), plus all crew must be USSA members.

Having said that, there were no Hobie points regattas for the past two years in Area A. Most of the Fleets are defunct, and the ones that remain are essentially trying to rebuild. Not sure that the non-Hobies are doing much better (although they DO have a racing series, so they are doing something right).

So, if we can't get people to points regattas, which are viewed as lower-key and less expensive, how are we going to rebuild interest in the Alter Cup qualifier?

By the way, I am pointing out facts that we need to overcome. For the record, I am in most definitely in favor of rebuilding this event, and am more than willing to help if asked.

Mike

Edit: For those that are wondering, this has been a "rebuilding year" for me personally, with the 10-month old, we haven't raced at all. I've done a bunch of RC, when/wherever invited. The 2006 Hobie 16 waits in the backyard, having only sailed a handful of times EVER...