Indeed, I do realize the cost. In talking with Martin Willard and others, the figure of 25,000 came up as what might be needed to be really competitive in the later years of the Worrell 1000. Wrightsville Beach's own Blockade Runner sponsored Randy Smyth for a number of years before he moved on to other things due to time(He totally dominated the Worrell 1000 for many years). The figures it took to be competitive at this level, both physically and financially, were not for the faint of heart or pocketbook. Yet, I think others have done this race with much, much less, this from talking to a number of sailors over the years.

Still, in order to REALLY attract the media and garner the attention that the Worrell 1000 brought, I think the full 1000 needs to be a strong force. It was such a milestone in cat racing, moving from the Hobie 16 all the way to the Inter20, and challenging what was deemed "SANE" on a small, open catamaran, that it needs to keep this aura intact to keep the interest and awe that surrounded this race alive and well.

I am at a mystery as to why Team Castrol didn't continue since the tight race between Tybee was surely compelling and a GREAT story that would have continued up the coast, and in my view, brought more attention/interest as it built. It was some of the tightest racing in the history of the event!

As for the one week vs two point, I agree. Surely this is much easier to navigate. Yet the full two week Worrell event always managed to attract a full showing, from big fish and small, amateur and pro.

I just hope the new races build quickly with the Atlantic 1000, as a whole, getting the attention and focus it deserves to keep the tradition of the Worrell 1000 alive and kicking.

One thing is for sure, the racing is still just as excellent...

Kelly
www.beneteau235.com