Because we're all accustomed to pitching in and running regattas / being involved with the decisions in our small sport, it's pretty easy for us to forget that this is Hobie's event. They run it as they see fit and own that privilege. We don't have to like it.

I don't agree with several of the decisions/approaches, but in the end, it's their proverbial ball game and you can support/not support by controlling whether or not you attend. This is ultimately how restrictive/nonrestrictive decisions are made. They can clearly get the support for the direction they're heading - this is still a well attended event.