Mark
Where were the handicap Nationals held last year?
All of the Alter Cup qualifiers are held to become eligible for a one design event.
I understand the need for both types of events and am not opposed to handicap races when necesary.
Why is it the Madcatter is consistantly one of the most attended regattas?
I believe it's because it's one of the best sailing events, not because of the format.

You mentioned the H14 with it's good number. If I take mine and I am the only one, I could be way behind at every finish and still potentially win an Alter cup qualifier.
I wouldn't feel real good about that. Not to mention how much easier it is to sail with no pressure on you.
Your desicions change, your heart rate changes and mistakes are made much easier.
I have been in the lead at a H14 Nationals and been as high as third in a H16 Nationals at a 68 boat event.
I can tell you I about had a cow.
When you go around A mark and head downwind with 65 boats chasing you, the brain fries, the heart rate goes way up and your head is on a swivel.
Learning to sail well when in that state is probably harder then learning the sailing itself.

Hoping to get that feeling again is what keeps me going back.
If you have had the chance to sail large one design fleets, you get it.

PS: Jake, I know you get it, I'm not picking a fight.