I did attend the Racine event. However, I'm not really sure it can be said I attended F18 Nationals. We sailed a separate course, with I-20s, and it seemed to me that worked out very well.

By the time the invitation to F16s was issued most of us had used up vacation time. And a number of folks didn't want to be the cause of any unpleasantness so they just stayed away. It should be noted that the F16 class has not been polled on this matter. I suspect there would be a strong sentiment for separation and a number of F16 sailors would not have attended in any case.

Nevertheless, I agree with Daniel, though I believe ours is the minority view.

As for Spring Fever, I started my basic training at Ft. Benning in January. I have no fond memories of Georgia. This is a purely personal decision that I feel no need to defend: if I need a dry suit, I won't sail. And I absolutely despise red clay.