If that report is accurate --
Personally, I think it is because they want true one-design classes in the Olympics. Formula classes are kind of iffy and harder to explain to the spectators and viewing public. It is easier to be able to say, "All the boats in this group are identical."

As far as why they specifically chose the Hobie Tiger, maybe they felt it was the one out of the F18 group that was most one-design. And that is probably true.

I think they like the idea of having a manufacturer provide boats out of the box for the Olympics (like with the Laser), and maybe Hobie Company has said they can do that.

Actually, it is probably a good thing that they have given three options of multihulls for the Olympic class, because it means that at least they are thinking of keeping us in there. It also appears to mean that they are looking at more affordable and more widely available options for the Olympic class.

I guess the Tornado Class should be getting a bit nervous. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />