Ok - here's the status;

NAs are over and I was able to talk with some sailors and people close to the event. Moving the launch area to Matheson Hammock Park, while attractive, presents other logistcal hurdles that will have to be considered. Nothing I have heard yet is insurmountable, and the primary issues are these:

1) More-experienced and additional staff/boats are needed to support the fleet. One inexperienced boat in addition to the primary boat is below standard.
2) It is essential to get the fleet easy access an official notice board. The on-line option this year failed server-side, and internet access from the launch area is problematic.
3) It is essential to get the SIs to adopt by reference the Tornado Championship Conditions. As a Grade 1 event, all Class rules should have been observed in order to be consistent with other international-level events.
4) It is essential to establish a better logistical relationship between the race area and the launch site. Matheson is an option with some planning and if the City will allow the boats to use grassy areas, but the narrow channel still is a major choke point. Other options need to be explored and planning now, less than a year from the next event, is required.

NONE of these things are impossible - IMO, they aren't even all that difficult to achieve. Let's move forward with reasoned and deliberative resolve. Any participants are welcome to send more feedback - this issue is officially on the agenda for March. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />