There is a strong dissidence about bringing the spinnaker into the Hobie 16 class. Right now an argument can be made that the Hobie 16 represents the largest multihull racing class in the world. Many N. Americans, myself included, do not want to see that diluted. Yes, the class numbers can support it. But on a world level, we are still behind the Aussies and the French. We need to keep the competition on this continent focused on one class, not two.

Before we conquer the ISAF Youth Worlds, maybe we ought to just get a national youth program going. Congratulations to Chris Segerblom and Andrew Mason for winning the event in January. And best to luck for them at ISAF Worlds. Not to take anything away from their victory -- they were up against a couple of tough teams -- but the rest of the field didn't appear to be anywhere close. What if we develop a strong national program to challenge for a national rep? Then we can take on the world.

So why not put together a strong national youth program on the H-16. The winner of the US SAILING championship can then get on with training with spinnaker. To put it succinctly...

1) The H-16 is the natural platform of choice for youth in NA.
2) NA will not support the H-16 w/ spin.

It's that simple. It may not be pretty. It may not be what you want. But it is what it is.

So rather than whining about an SL16 or an F-12 or spinnakers or anything else, why not get out the calendar and put down just ONE youth event in your area this year? You're reading this thread. That means YOU are the one that is going to have to do it.

When your region starts putting together 6-10 good youth teams, then I think your voice will be heard. Till then, shut up. Or to put it another way, "Your actions speak so loudly, I cannot hear what you say!"

Build it. Then change it.