Hey! I just look at the NAHCA Rankings which list 21 paid members of the Tiger class.... Racing in two regions of country. (See, your class website under rankings.)
The other region, Syracuse.. Rochester etc made the original proposal so you would think they would be in favor of their own proposal. The issue seems small, regional, and separated at opposite ends of the continent.
If nothing else... the vote should drive 2010 membership up!
"The Tiger/F18 issues
involves the entire Division for us. Not just the Tiger/F18's."
Now this is the puzzle!... I would love to hear why a hobie 16 or other racer has an interest in the Tiger F18 class policy.
Reasons:
In many areas of the North American region HCA points events have either been canceled or run the risk of being canceled in the future due to low turnout. It is not in the best interest of Hobie one-design classes when these events cease to exist or convert to an open regatta format. Part of this problem stems from the fact that the majority of Tiger sailors prefer to race in the larger Formula 18 fleets than the smaller Tiger fleets. If adopted, this proposal will help to retain viable numbers at Points Regattas by retaining Tiger competitors and boosting numbers with additional F18 competitors.
This is why the proposal is public and draws attention. If your Yacht Club does not need saving... Don't invite the F18 class!... Let those clubs that see themselves in some trouble attempt to recruit more boats.
In politics... it is usually called local control!
