I agree with most posters here regarding the Atlantic 1000/Tybee 500 as they pertain to open class vs. one design. My only caveat regarding the type of craft used lies in the principle of this distance race; if I recall it was supposed to be a race that "ordinary" people with "ordinary" boats could enter. [color:"red"]THAT BEING SAID, I DON'T consider "ordinary" as being the average Joe Sailor taking his buddy's boat out for a spin. There is very little ORDINARY about those that choose to battle the elements for hundreds of miles. Races of this magnitude demand sailors in top physical form, strong mental fortitude, equipment in excellent shape and design, and sheer grit [/color]

I prefer one design in my racing because I spend more time testing my skill against other sailors rather than spending time modifying my boat. Yes, this probably doesn't push the technology envelope, but it keeps my budget realistic. I'll leave the technological pursuits to big-budget folk.

If someone shows up with a 20' x 12' carbon fiber beast weighing 100 lbs and toting a solid foil wing for a sail at a cost of $100,000, it will most likely kill the competition. However, will this person be referred to as the best "SAILOR"?

So, I ask again - what are we looking to say at the end of this race? The best sailor? The best technology? The best skill? The best survior? I think the answer to this question may determine the race structure.

Your thoughts?