I've sent Optis in 30 knots in Newport, I've never been thanked as much at any regatta, including cat regattas (which says a lot, since I'm surrounded by friends there). Some parents even stopped as they drove out of Ft. Adams.

They all said the same thing: too many RCs and OAs keep everyone ashore when it gets over 12-15 knots. Only works with a strong team and great support from the parents and coaches on the water...

Mike

Edit: Officially, the wind was solid in the low 20s, but there were some gnarly gusts at the weather mark. The kids were troopers!