My recommendation to John was to consider increasing the number of rotating classes and I asked that they consider reducing the number of manufacturer classes. The risk is it could bruise the relationship between the manufacturers and the Alter Cup committee but I think like a bruise it would heal quickly.

If that happens, I asked John to use a selection criteria that gave the classes with the most participation at their major national events the first shot at the three slots. Currently in the US, I believe the A-class, F-18, and H-16 are getting the highest numbers to their major regattas (in the case of the A-class, 42 boats at the midwinters and 30 at the North Americans) so if this is used for the 2007 event, I think these classes should get the first shot.

It would be my responsibility as class president to determine ASAP if our class would provide a participant and I think I should have a deadline to get back to the Alter Cup chairman. If we do not produce a rep, the committee should have other classes in mind if they have not already been selected.

Bob Hodges
USACA President