why do they have to have the same Texel rating? I think we can agree upon that more recent models are faster than early ones - actually this has made the F18 field of Texel finishers as such faster. If F18s race among each other, no rating is used - but in a mixed regatta the new ratings penalise early F18s like old Tigers, Inter 18s, etc. a lot.
I believe in the the Box Rule that makes up the Formula 18. If you took all the "old" boats and put them on the water as brand new boats I think you would see that the formula is working. Each owner is able to update their boat with newer equipment, such as sails. If you think that old boat with old equipment should get some consideration with a better rating I have to disagree. What would denote a change to the same time penalty as they make upgrades to their boat? There are conditions that Tigers and even Inter-18s shine. I feel it would be a huge disservice to the class to make these distinctions. We are growing great with the setup and the goal is class racing in the end.
Dan DeLave
