At 65 and while trying my best to stay in shap, I discovered lifting a 30' stick was no longer enjoyable or possible lol.
So about 10 years ago I started sailing smaller and lighter cats. I found them much more responsive, faster to set up and take down. But most of all, I like the idea of being totally responsible for the outcome of my efforts, good or bad in a regatta. Finally, the less bells and whistles, the better...