I don't know how long it's been since you've been looking into catamaran racing, but the entire market is pretty fractured. It's not like the 70's when Hobie was the marquis name in the market.

I don't think you'll find one class that is dominant, any more.

For most people, the most popoular local class is the class that dictates what they sail. If you're up for trailering your boat up and down the east coast, then anything is fair game. As pepin suggested . . . it depends on your sailing preferences. There are plenty of fast boats to choose from, but if you have to drive 5+ hours to race it, you'll likely lose interest fast.

I'd let your sailing preferences dictate what type of boat you buy. If you get an A Cat or an F16 or an F18 or a Nacra 20, you'll find plenty of competitive racing.

My primary advice is to look local first.

Mike