Mark,
Last year at Tradewinds 16 boats raced... there were more who opted not to race because of the heavy wind. So there were over 10 boats and I think it was worth it.
Last year I raced a Tiger with my friend. The format last year, with F18s having our own start was great, I had a blast, and it was definitley worth every dime. Rick did an amazing job getting races off with minimal waiting and preventing traffic. I don't mind waiting, traffic or etc, I just don't see a reason to set up a race with extra traffic at the start and most likely, as a direct result on the rest of the course. I don't remember you there last year so what gives you a right to give your input on this topic.
This year I am chartering a Capricorn because I am a broke college student who can not afford a F18 just yet, let alone a Tornado or A-Class. But I thought I was going to have a lot of fun, and probably get in some good racing against 10-18 other boats so I figured it'd be a good way to spend my money.
For someone who tries to promote youths getting involved in sailing so much you did a really good job of making one feel like crap.
I simply tried to give my input, I feel your post was completley uneccessary and unappreciated. Does the argument that some people think F18s are the greatest thing since slice bread have any place in this discussion? It seemed like a simple discussion to me reguarding an aspect of a regatta which you did not attend last year, aren't attending this year, and I doubt you've attended in the past.
Glad to know your so concerned though.
This discussion wasn't about mixing classes in general it was about one specific regatta. I don't care about what people want to do in general but I am pretty sure that the purest form of racing would be one design/ one class starts.
If you want to have this arguement then start another thread which I won't get involved in. If you wish to discuss anything with me further please PM me. I am normally passive and don't get involved in redundant arguements but your post just pissed me off.
-Todd