Thanks for taking the time to write that up Mark. You bring up some excellent points. One point that I would like to see some people's opinions on is the Europe vs. US issue. I've heard numerous times that Performance and Hobie have been more successful in Europe than in the US and I've always wondered what the reasons are. Some possible reasons could be:
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<br> 1) Better sailing venues.
<br> 2) Tighter population centers allows for better representation at national events.
<br> 3) Laws allow for easier ownership and usage.
<br> 4) Cultural differences.
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<br> Personally, I think it is almost entirely the last one. The sports that have increased in popularity over the last 10 years in the US have done so by being louder, faster, brighter and more Xtreme. This is evident by increased interest in NASCAR, dragsters, X-Games, etc. The second factor that helps determine popularity in the US is TV time. If you can't put the sport in front of the kids in a hip/cool/loud way, they will not even know that it exists.
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<br> By contrast, my limited exposure to European citizens has taught me that they have much more of an appreciation for sports that require finesse, intelligence, and artistic ability. These are obviously traits that would cause someone to take an interest in sailing.
<br> Please don't take offense at either of the broad, sterotypical assumptions that I've made. There are numerous exceptions in both places. Any opinions from people that have spent time sailing on multiple continents?
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<br>Tim Dry
<br>Minden, NV<br><br>