Ok, I do hear your thoughts, views, and insights. Additionally I respect them and feel this debate is healthy. Now that the pleasantries are out of the way (joking!).



I guess the point I am trying to make is this. There is nothing in the charter of USSA or the by laws of USSA. That prohibits a class association or affiliation from marketing itself. Basically, there is nothing that USSA can do if we (NAMSA) operate more like a corporate structure ( as in CART, IRL, NASCAR -- all of these I believe fall under the structure of scca(I think thats the correct one). All of this comes back to one point ---- MONEY. If Namsa has a strong structure then sponsors can be pulled to fund work that NAMSA sees that needs to be done. Once the dollars begin to flow then USSA and YC's have to take notice due to thier need for money (ours, yours, everyones)



Basically, NAMSA sets up the rules, governs the quality of the product, and then acts as a voice for the product (us) to USSA. Sailing has never marketed itself. Its been used by marketers but without any focus or direction the image of sailing is diluted and vague. Basically, if you tell anyone your a sailor they think you sail a 1920's vintage J boat, drink martini's at the YC and are an aristocratic butt. Thats the image that sailing has. Now reality is that most of us are poor miserable hacks who just want to leave the work week behind, get the wind in our hair(if we have any left), and maybe have a beer or two(or more if its been a bad week). Thats the image here in the states.



In Australia sailings image is much different and it is viewed as a powerful, athletic sport. WHY????? Marketing and direction. Direction needs structure. Structure needs support both financial and personal. NAMSA does not need to come to the table with its hat in its hand. (I have seen deals fall apart because weakness kills). If you come to the table with a good product, thumping your chest then people want to be with you.



Namsa needs to direct sailing. Not only be an advocate for sailors rights --- god that sounds clintonian. If Namsa comes to the table with directions then YC's can follow them instead of just guessing what we want which is what I hear from most YC PRO's. YC's are hungry for new blood (money), membership in most areas is falling and active membership is falling faster. Most YC's are just marinas in most of the country anymore with the old timers saying the same things we hear at our regattas. We need to adopt a rating system, bring forth the software (free to the pro's) and say this is what we want and this is what we are prepared to give in order to get it.



Steve