A little off topic but tback's comments about the people of the F16 class got me thinking...

I think you may find that most classes that are "thriving" these days are those that have good relationships and/or communication between all members of the class on and off the race course. Maybe we've stumbled across the reason why sailing participation is dwindling, too much agression on the water and not enough help/mateship off the water. Those classes (including all members of the class) that have a good friendly rivalry on the race course, and respect for each other at all times, will thrive. Those that do not, will self-destruct.

It's a bit like society come to think of it, fancy that...