You'd face the same issues if you were racing an H-16 against other H-16s in this area. I routinely race against H-16s that vary from late 70's to 2005 models, and there's a significant difference in the boats. In addition, there are H-16s/sailors who do better upwind vs. down, heavy wind vs. light, etc.

And what Jake said about the one-design hot-shots definiely applies to the Hobie MWE.....those guys from MI, NY, DE, etc. don't drive all the way to the FL panhandle just to fool around. (Please don't look at my results!)

I guess my point is that in this area you're not likely to be racing with a ton of other boats just like yours, even on an H-16. But you are likely to improve your skills (and have fun!) at the regattas, so just do it!

P.S. Both my son and daughter started racing with me when they were about 10 years old.

Jerome Vaughan
Hobie 16
Clinton, Mi'sippi