I hear rumours that the Tiger is being advocated by some within ISAF as an Olympic boat. I think this would be a mistake for a number of reasons... the Tiger is already (IMO) suffering from mild multiple-personality disorder in the US under two different class rules and two different handicap numbers. Add a third set of rules and this US issue will become global and perhaps ultimately take the Tiger out of the F18 Class where rules and equipment may be advancing quicker than is ideal for an Olympic Class. There are more Tigers in the US F18 class than pretty much any other boat (though there seem to be more Nacras being sold lately). I've heard Olympic-level sailors tout the higher-quality sails and better construction of the Tornado in comparison to nearly every production boat, and postulate that quality and consistency would have to increase dramatically for any existing equipment proposed to replace it. I think that would translate to higher costs to the average sailor - something that wouldn't impact teams campaigning for the Games, but might drive sailors away from A) a more restrictive set of rules, B) higher boat prices, and C) fewer boats on the start line. It seems like most Tornado teams also compete in the F18 Class to get valuable fleet-sailing experience because the F18 fleets are larger than the Tornado fleets.

Ultimately, I expect that economic concerns (profit) might drive the decision rather than consideration for the health of any specific class. At the US SAILING meeting last month, there was a well-attended Olympic Forum held - nobody in the room raised their hand when this question was asked: "Who would like to see their class selected as Olympic equipment?" Most sailors see that selection as a death knell - look at the Soling and the Etchells, for example. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />