MM: <br> <br>I think I have to respectfully disagree with you on this point. You had excellent statistics showing the various boats that have been bought. If these boats were bought, these people clearly had time to use them. The question is, why did they choose those boats over cats. I currently windsurf in a high wind area and wanted a toy to use in lower winds. Although there is a great deal of kitesailing in my area, and I seriously considered starting this, I chose to buy a Hobie instead. For roughly the same investment, I now have a boat I can use in a wide variety of conditions, can race, and more importantly, can use with others. It takes me just as much time to rig my board as it does the 16. It takes kites longer than me to rig. I understand there are a bevy of more complicated boats out there than the 16, I also used to own an 18. The point is, it really doesn't take that much longer to rig a cat than a windsurfer, or even a PWC. We're not talking about rigging for an hour, its a matter of minutes. <br> <br>I'm sorry to hear about the launching plights you are having in your area. I don't disagree with your thoughts that this is one reason for the decline in your area. It certainly is not the case in my region. I have had the privilege of living in a number of states and I do not recall having difficulty in accessing sailing areas in those regions. <br> <br>As a member in a Hobie Fleet years ago, I recall having several fun events on the calendar. As I look at fleets' websites now, there are hardly any. One of the attractions of cat sailing, as has been mentioned in previous posts, is the ability to bring the whole family. I believe more fun events will help boost fleet membership and thus boost future boat sales. <br> <br>On another note, I had not been to your website before and wanted to congratulate you on a great site! I'm sure I'll be purchasing equipment from you in the future as the closest shop for me is four hours away. <br> <br>Thanks for the opportunity to respond. <br> <br>Kip <br>H16<br><br>
