Hi Chris,

Congrats on qualifying for the AC. That is quite an achievement.

There are 5 Vipers being delivered across the Southeast over the next month or so. Unfortunately, they may not be any closer to you than Fun in the Sun in Clearwater. (Panama City, Pensacola/LA - dual home, Birmingham, Memphis, Memphis). I'll be back and forth to the Panhandle of FL this spring (the new Bham Viper) and summer, but I do not have any plans for an East coast trip.

The Blades would be a viable training boat - at least to get you and your crew accustomed to the sensitivity of the F16 and the wing mast - obviously, there will be subtle differences in crew position and similar things. My thought is that it would be at least a good introduction.

I'd do these things:
1. Contact Jill at Fun in the Sun
2. Contact Matt at Vectorworks
3. Go to the regattas (mostly South of you) where the F16s will be and check them out

There will be some F16s (of various flavors) at Juana's in September. You could certainly get some water time surrounding that regatta.

I hope this helps and welcome to the Southeast.