but my opinion is irrelevant... The class and ISAF felt they had an edge and immedietely put in legislation to close the rules loopholes they exploited.
I would rather see it as the class trying to keep cost under control. Something dont have to actually be any faster as long as people think it is faster.
What I heard (third hand information!) was that the austrians also had cuben sails built, feeling that they had to cover all bases and test the stuff, but went with the a "standard" material instead.
Every team is taking their best shot on a generally agreed upon playing field. Is there an advantage for well funded programs... You bet... the field is not level but everyone was prepared for this game.
Mark, you and I both know that doing a spi project like this is not what will break the bank. Pretty much the same thing happend at the worlds 2002 Marthas Vineyard when the Gran Segel spis debuted. It is the costs of running the campaign (travel, hotel, rental cars) and lack of income that makes this game impossible for us regular guys. Good for Booth/Pim and John/Charlie (are the brits in as well?) that they are pushing the envelope. Any olympic team could have done the same, and who knows if others have done it??
ISAF.. With sailors having "special light wind and strong current" Star hulls built. Optimized Ynglings and I know not what floating around, why should ISAF choose to pick on the Tornado for spi development there? Besides, who cares about ISAF anymore..
