First post...looking for some general information.

I've wanted a catamaran since I was a teenager...and I hesitate to say how many years ago that was! Actually I recently turned 50 and the urge has hit me again...spring fever maybe. I have sailed in the past (mono hull), but am by no means proficient at it. Ultimately I would like to get to the point where I am skilled enough to enter races (likely on Lake Ontario.)

Where is a good place to start? Should I just dive off the deep end and go buy a used cat then figure it out as I go?...or should I try and hook up with someone who races and needs a partner? (do people even look for partners?)

From what I can tell so far your weight is an important factor to consider. I tip the scales at just over 200. Am I carrying too much lard to be considering a cat? Would I be better off with something 20' long instead of a 16' Hobie? (or is the shorter/smaller cat easier to learn on?)

Sorry for all the newbie questions...if somebody can point me in the right direction I'll keep doing my homework on it...just looking for a starting point here.

Thanks in advance.

Ron