There’s been a lot of discussion, both pro and con, about the IHCA mandating that Hobie regattas being restricted to Hobie built and sold boats. This is understandable as the Hobie Company puts some level of effort (read time and money) into supporting Hobie events. This is called marketing. Hobie expects to see a return on investment (regatta support) in the form of selling more boats. They have every right to demand that other manufacturer’s boats not be allowed in Hobie Company assisted events. Otherwise, the message that Hobie is trying to project is diluted.

There have been a number of posts that boil down to calling the Hobie Company a bunch of rat bastards for enforcing something that was never allowed in the first place. My question is, why are those of you that suddenly find yourselves without a regatta sitting around whining about it? Can’t you put on an open event that’ll attract all types of manufacturer’s boats? Won’t the people that put on Hobie regattas help with open events?

My experience has been racers are racers. They really don’t care if it’s a one design or open event, they want to compete. I wish we had the wealth of boats and events you guys do on the Mainland. Here on Maui, I’m trying to convince a couple of Corsair owners to show up for YC regattas so they’ll give the multihulls a start. All the YCs want is three boats and all I’ve been able to do is two. Bummer.

So, quit whining, organize your own regattas and GO RACE!!!