Your spot on about the Viper, I scared the hell out of myself with the big rig Stingray as a learner and missed most of the races with any decent wind. If I'd started with a Mozzie I would have sailed twice as much in my first year.
I'd love the kids to do the Nats, if it works out we'll be there with a quad stack but I think it's when I have to assist in our 2 week learn to sail program.
regards