Hi Kevin

The Tybee organizers and OuterBanks group will have final say but Chuck did ask for all racing sailors input on the 04 race -

I like numerous classes ,-particularly the Formula classes as an ideal format for this type of distance racing ,
idealy applied to all events rather than a handicap system .
We have 2 or 3 row beach start capabilities so it seems a good way to seperate boats into them per finish in each respective class in the event -

There are already 14 F-18s in the MI area -
and numerous Tigers racing around the country so this seems to be the class not represented this year that hopefully will be added next in great numbers. This along with more F-18 HTS , AND THE 20S ,-think the F-16s could race in this as well .

The Nacra 6/0 seems equal to the I-20 -,the larger shute seems to help in many conditions and the lower C E makes it potentially faster in higher wind-speeds . The Aussie team in the 98 Worrell raced the H-20 very effectively that year and finished 6th . -A Fox or other 20s would be potentially as equal when raced by similarly skilled racers on each respectively .
I like the F-20 CONCEPT for distance racing as it would allow any 20 ft 8.5 beam boat to race evan up -or take the best rudder -boards -rig or hull from each --then add a reef system and you have a SAFER -superior equal speed boat to ocean race .-
Per example a S C 20 platform -boards and rudder system with a similar C F mast and sailplan of the Inter .-
This would add to the event just as with the the Nacra F-18 vs Tiger aspect in the 18 class .

Think this also helps promote more international competition in the event and helps make more boats available to be set up safely and correctly for ocean racing .---Many O D classes now do not allow for a reef system ,-or for changing to a needed heavier rudder system for example ,--THESE ARE NEEDED !!
We were very fortunate in the Tybee 500 weatherwise -
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Formula 20 rules are outlined on the F-20 Forum here on Catsailor -for any interested.
We have the MI 200 later this year in Aug and hope entrants will sign in as Formula 20 s {each 20 has the option}which will allow these safety mods beyond class buoys oriented racing class rules, which Again are intented for average use not normally encountered in offshore ocean type distance racing .

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great event
hope this helps

Info on the MI 200 is on the CRAM website
under race schedule along with rules and NOR .

Racing per class per leg finish each day
All classes 16 to 22 ft are welcome !!

Carl