I've got to say something cause this has gotten a little crazy.
This regatta and a few others on the coast of Florida-Mississipp is very laid back. So, not too many people say anything about stuff like this. HOWEVER, most of these regattas, there is a question on the entry form of what RATING you should be at, and if you answer truthfully, good for you, if not, then oh well.
So, lets race and have fun!
Generally, the fast people come out on top no matter what.
Yes, some of these people do care, but most of them don't. And these regattas on the coast have done pretty well over the last couple of years despite a clubhouse getting completely destroyed in a hurricane and other things.