Ellen MacArthur wrote:
"JimC" wrote
| As you say, the main issue is whether we are enjoying the sailing
| experiences we get on our respective boats.


They taught us safety was the main issue.... I like MacGregors's but everybody knows
they're built flimsy.... They're not as safe as they could be. They need to make them better.

Cheers,
Ellen

Do you have any statistics or evidence to support your claim that the
Macs are built "flimsy", Ellen? - Or are you just going to say that you
don't have to provide any evidence because "Everybody knows....." Or
that you don't have any evidence of multiple Mac failures, but you
would just feel more comforatable if they were built heavier and had
standing rigging like a 40-ft Valiant, ODay, Tartan, etc. The facts are
that the Macs are light boats, and, accordingly, their rigging is light.
Obviously, it's not the same as rigging needed for a larger, heavier
boat. Also, the Macs are not sold as boats suitable for blue water
crossings.

- On the other hand, if you don't have evidence that lots of them are
failing or falling apart because "they're built flimsy....", then maybe
you should tell us that and qualify your statements. There are over 20K
Macs still sailing. - What percentage of them have failed because of
inadequate rigging or hull construction?

Please provide evidence that lots of Macs are failing because their
rigging is not adequate for the particular application.

Jim