Back when all this nonsense started, I said they should just choose the Hobie 16 and be done with it, for all the reasons you've mentioned Mark. Years ago, when the put the Laser in, I though, "They must be NUTZ!" but upon further reflection, I realized, in the Laser, the Sailor wins the regatta, not the boat.

That's why I supported the Hobie 16, less -go fast gadgets- on board means the sailors become more important, to make it go fast.

Oh, and it's available world wide, and the cheapest racing boat available.

NOW...the only draw back is, watching a bunch of Hobie 16's go downwind in 10kts. or less, is about as exciting (for the spectators) as mowing my lawn, so they need to pick a very windy venue for the regatta, if they want to 'thrill the crowd', so to speak.