- understand there will be diverse opion and comment on boat -class preferences for this distance ocean racing event which is extensively covered by the media here on Catsailor ,-and will be on OLN t v in June ,-along with the always excellent race film by Robert and Jeanie ,-plus numerous sailing publications and web sites.

Currently the thinking as noted is towards a return to an Inter 20 event as per earlier 1000 mile races ,with perhaps an added Formula 18 class category .

Several teams that race both F-18S and I-20s stated their preference for 20 LENGTH in this predominently downwind race in ocean conditions and seas, -- no F-18S showed this year though would like to see a F-18 class scored and started seperately .

To increase potential partisipation and teams entering the event from different classes and brand categories some favor a Formula 20 rule be used for the 06 TYBEE 500.
Forumla 20 rules are on the F-20 FORUM -http://www.catsailor.com/forums/postlist.php?Cat=&Board=Formula20
based on I-20 basic specifications with matching sail pattern rules so the only major difference would be hull shape as per F-18 .
This would encourage entrants from various class types and offer the oportunity to modify their boat for ocean racing as listed here http://www.catsailor.com/forums/sho...;view=collapsed&sb=5&o=&vc=1
plus potentially several others requiring modification to F-20 compliant specifications.

An added class and or alternative that would also require a seperate start and should be scored on a first across the line wins basis would be an open class ,--again started and scored seperately at a latter time off the beach.
Where to draw the line in length limit in the open class is a matter for discussion , In open racing at numerous events the winning boat type has varied . The Tornado -Marstrom 20 ,-CFR 20 -SC 20 -and others have won line honors in distance races in recent years .Perhaps this is the basis for an open class category for the 06 TYBEE 500 .

Either the F-20 or the open class senario would interest this racing sailor enough to show on the starting line again in 06. Having definative classes and boats defined allows teams to begin training and planning this season along with CREW -team members and obtaining potential team sponsors that include budgetary outlines for these boats and teams.

Any racing sailor or team potentially interested in racing the TYBEE 500 should let their boat-class preferences be known ,-please post .

thanks
Carl