In my humble opinion the low F18 turnout at the GYC Multihull Regatta (which the F16 Nationals was a part of) had more to do with the fact that the GYC regatta was held the week after Spring Fever (which was also the F18 Southeastern Championships). The close proximity of these two races also probably had something to do with the low turnout of the F16s at Spring Fever.

Like most people who have to work to support our sailing habit, you have to prioritize your time off and select regattas carefully. As an F18 sailor, I chose Spring Fever (F18 Southeastern Championships). My participation on Saturday and Sunday of the GYC regatta was due only to the fact that I live 10 minutes from GYC and didn't have to travel.

Pete, I am not privy to the "unsubstantiated rumors" that you are referring to, but I'm sure you have an idea of who you want to target. Why not target them directly instead of going after the entire class?