gotta go with Jake on this one. I think the angle is by having a mixed gender class, it would compel more women to either watch or participate. This is perhaps the largest untapped market segment in many if not all sports, both in talent and disposable income

And I recall several female notables that have challenged the status quo on a few male dominated sports like formula one racing and Singlehanded sailing which had heretofor been considered sports only males could handle...

What are we looking for in Olympic sailing? Athletic ability? brute strength? tactical genius? technological innovation? nice teeth?

If it was just one thing, then you'd only need one class/boat. Having a mixed crew might broaden appeal, blend several different disciplines together, and allow more overall participation

Not only that, but by having a mixed class, it is unlikely that a boat choice would upset formula/box or one-design classes for that very reason...