Yea, I remember my first regatta at Wrightsville Beach, NC in 1980 (over 200 boats). Now they ban boats from that beach. I've seen the decline, but think there is potenial to grow. Some media exposure with events like the VolvoExtreme40 and Tybee500 would help. We need to start actively promoting Cat sailing to high school and college kids.
There has been a movement of new Cat sailors from the NC State Sailing Club thanks to Trey and Tad (Velocity Sail Team). They've brought 3-5 boats to several area events. I think colleges and college sail clubs could be a great target for new Cat Sailors. They provide a pool of Thrill Seeking kids that would love to crew. They are also at the age where they will have disposable income in a few years. I bought a used H16 before I bought a car when I got out of college. Mainly because I got the opportunity to start crewing for a friend when I was 18.