Here in the mid-Atlantic area I have to race portsmouth as well as (occasionally) one design on my H20. I race both enthusiastically because I'm out racing, but the bottom line for me is its a lot more fun to know when you cross the line how you did, not hours after the days racing when the scorers finish the math. Also, while on the course you can see the results of your technique; am I gaining or losing, is the boat ahead pointing higher, going faster, etc. More feedback makes for more interesting sailing. But as I said, I willingly race both types, because that is what we have to do to race together today.
David.