Just a diversion to this thread:

MaughanH17, you do know that you can not use that Carbon Tornado in a Tornado class event and get scored ?

Also a side note. The Tornado class was approaced by the ICCT, but the class board did not want the Tornado in that event.. There has also been some discussion within the Tornado class about wether the Olympic status is 'a good ting' for the Tornado class or a hindrance. But that is another discussion.

Over to the F18HT: If it is within the class rules, of course he can spend his money on 'go fast' gear. He will either kill off the class, start a new trend or get depressed by his boats performance when racing and quit sailing
I have to agree with Mary, if it is within the formula, why not ? Something good might eventually come out of it. But when he wants to adjust the minimum weight limit of the class, that's when the brakes have to be put on in my opinion.
Mary mentions the 'garage' option. I think that option is dvindling fast these days. Most people dont have the skills to design and build competitive boats these days. Just handling pre-preg carbon is quite laboursome. An autoclave is out of the question for most garage builders, as is the math for lay-up schemes and foam/glass composite panels.

But obviously, money is not an issue for this sailor. It will be fun to watch wether this affects the F18HT class.