HI Sam,

We do want those organizations to join NAMSA as Association Members and offer the same to them as we do any other Association that belongs, i.e., CRAM, CRAW, NAHCA, et al.

And I certainly agree about the rating systems. However, where NAMSA can do some good is to make strong suggestions about ratings when they seem a bit insane. For example, at this point a few people make decisions on modifications that perhaps handle a situation they know about, but does not best serve the multihull world in general. For example, for a boat that is normally with one person, sailed by two once had a modification. Now, it is based on a percentage of the minimum crew weight. However, most classes do NOT have minimum crew weights, so what are they to do. And the same weight problem works in reverse.

Still another thing is having a spinnaker rating and then another for distance races -- just makes no sense.

That is why for our Key Largo Steeplechase we simply do not acknowledge those esoterically-designed mods.

In other words, we don't want NAMSA to handle ratings, but we do want to offer input to those working with them.

Thanks for you postings. Very good!