The N20 and the Hobie 20 are not exactly A cats but they are more fragile than what you want.
What?
Am I missing something? When did N20 fall into the category of fragile? Come one now.
The N20 is a solidly built boat, its the boat of choice for distance racing in the US.
If you want something to race for 12k, I'd look at a used F18. Tiger or Nacra F18. The new Infusions just came out and I bet teams will be selling the last generation F18 and getting into a new version. I bet good race ready, 2 year old, used, but still in good shape F18's will be available this spring.
You can get a older N6.0 for much less the $12k and a used N20 in good shape for $6k-$8k.
Bill