There are many important factors behind the EU/USA differential, cited in this thread. Such factors seem durable, i.e. they've always existed, or for a very long time. <br> <br>But your post addresses the points which are salient to my original post!!! Why is the sport declining in the US; not why is EU more likely to be a sailing kinda place. <br> <br>Trust an Aussie to get the point. (One of your fellow Aussie's is staying with us for a year - we're very impressed - can you tell?) <br> <br>So, in light of GE's observations, would an "entry level" but upgradeable cat provide that "inrush" of "vaguely sailing literate" types, who could then upgrade slowly? <br> <br>Or would "flashier" marketing/support of used boats do that? (In the event the marketing analisys described so ably by Mr. MIchaelson proves that used boats would eat into the market for starters too much) <br>Let's have one or the other, and get our neighbors off the beach! <br> <br>Ed<br><br>