The new name was put forward by a project group member and accepted by all. The reason to replace the HT (High Tech) by HP (High performance) was that the HT suggested that :
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<br>- The class would take a very high flying road tech wise. This is not entirely the case for the rule of 100 kg minimum weight would disallow a fully Carbon craft like the M18. Nor are fixed wingsails allowed. These things are for the C-class boats. The F16 HP's are not loners hunting for a speed record, they will form an controlled race class. A very FAST and OPEN race class, but still a controlled class. In short : a Formula class.
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<br>- The HT extention gave the impression that this class would be very expensive. This is also not true. Cheapest boat = US $5200,- Yes ! five two zero zero US $ NEW ! With carbon mast !. The most expensive F16 HP (!) now is US $ 10.000,-
<br>No were near the US 15.000 or more of the truelly HT Marstrom products.
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<br>- The HT extention also gave the idea that this class if solely for professionals and professional builders. Not true, there is a homebuildable F16 HP with an impressive 10 year old track record. A proven design. The Taipan 4.9 plans are readily available and only US$ 200,- including building license.
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<br>- The HT extension gave the impression that the class would be a (to wide to trailer) CAT or UNI rigged genaker boat with a crew of two. This is not true, there is a jib and it playes a very important role in equalizing crews of different weight. Furthermore It can not be missed on reaches in distance races !
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<br>- The HT extension was not as compatible as the HP extension with the concept of "Equal Performance classes" as formulated in the F16 HP introduction webpage. The F16 HP is so fast (notice that I don't write "will be" !) that it is put into "The 18 ft. Equal Performance class" or "EP18". The F16 HP transents its EP class due to very High Performance hence the new name :
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<br>F16 HP = Formula 16 High (or Hyper) Performance.
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<br>Wouter
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