This thread is stupid, thanks Tiki <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Sail the boat you like. The important part is to go sailing.

My opinions on the questions/assertions above:
1. There is a small USF16 Class Association trying to grow the class at a regional level within the US. Only time will tell if this effort will be successful.
2. Most F16s are in the Southeast. Although you will find them scattered to the Northeast and West coasts in Open class racing (I know, you HATE handicap racing).
3. F16s sailors usually choose the boat for the versatililty and open box rules.
4. Most often, not always, F16 sailors are debating to buy F16 or A Class or F17 - NOT F18. Different needs are met by each boat.
5. No claims about speed. It feels fast. It is fun to sail.
6. F17 class racing is limited to the Great Lakes Region.
7. If you want large single class racing on the nat'l level, find a crew and go F18.
8. I like the 18HT, too. Cool boats.
9. How much more time before the fad is over?
10. Most F16 haters haven't sailed one and/or have issues with a certain F16 sailors.
11. Handicap racing, while disliked, will be around for the forseeable future. Might as well sail what keeps you active.

See you at the bar at Tradewinds.