Well, like I said, I don't like "speed ratings" so I think we both agree that handicaping isn't the best way to do things. I think the weight is negligable on the outhaul and that an outhaul car is the the way to go.

As far as getting run over by other boats, that sounds like a respect issue. Some people cross the line and take racing too seriously and use poor judgement.

We also agree that in class racing the competitive boats are newer. This doesn't always happen in open class. In my experiance, regattas become more fun with more boats. In some areas of the world there are an abundance of one type.