So, it's all about values...

If you value Gordon's original concept, return to the Qualifier-only process and limit the event to 10 boats. They do not have to be new boats if you can find a host with boats available. Few, if any, current Championships are being run this way now.

If you value the new boats and extended invitation (20-team) concept, know that no other Championship is run that way, and have a real plan to fund the event without asking the Board for money.

If you value making the event relevant in modern times, the current model is trying to do that. Minimizing costs, opening the invitations, eliminating qualifiers (which were neither being run correctly nor well-attended), rotating disciplines and locations, and adding clinics are all outcomes of sailor input, and committee meetings. US Sailing (current leadership) has provided some feedback, but are not driving this. Most Championships have moved in a similar direction.

There are pros and cons to each of these approaches. Personally, I favor letting it continue to evolve (moving away from Gordon's original concept, against his wishes, was done before), and supporting the event no matter how it is formatted; otherwise, we run the risk of losing the ability to have it, and all of the work and tradition and people that have been revered will fade into distant memory.

Mike