Pete, if a person is not interested in actually racing in the Alter Cup, or knows they have little chance of winning the Qualifier, why would they go to the qualifier in the first place? I'll go to any regatta if it's:

1. a short drive (2hr. vs. 10hrs.)
2. I can get the days off
3. there will be a good turnout for my class

But I figure if I have no desire (or chance) to do the Alter Cup, (especially if it's on the west coast) if I show up at the Qualifier, I'm just "in the way" of the those who are real Alter Cup contenders.

Perhpas that's why there was so little turnout for Area C? Maybe the regular guys who race in that area have no intention of doing the Alter Cup, so what's the point of doing the AC Qualifier?

My own personal view is, the Alter Cup should just choose the N/A Champions from every class that runs a N/A's, and then fill up any empty slots with pettitions. The whole "Area Qualifier" concept is lost on me, especially if it's going to be a P number regatta. But I guess for the sailors who sail "dead boats" a P number regatta is the only way to get in?