brian wrote:
What we need here is a challange.
I challange any wind powered craft to prevail over a Formula
Windsurfer and competant sailor in a series of four Regattas on a
regular/proper windward/leeward course. Wind min. of 10 knots.

The yacht and sailing clubs down in the Coconut Grove might go for
this.

There used to be an annual race that was a challenge among all
one-design classes, but it died out before windsurfers caught on. The
problem I see is that the hot windsurfers (at least the ones I'm
familiar with) aren't really one-design at all, they mix-n-match boards,
gear, sails in all kinds of variations. Obviously there should be a
completely open class which might include giant proas, hydrofoils, kite
boards, etc etc.

BTW if you want to place a limit on your challenge of winds 10 knots,
you might also be aware that other specialized craft have a right to
name their favorite conditions too. Try racing against a Thistle in
winds of less than 3 knots.






jeff feehan wrote:
depending on what boats they race there, you might need more than
10 kts - 12 would be safer.

What about a maximum?



the problem is to predict a date/time where the wind won't drop
below 10 (or 12) kts. around here (long island sound) that's pretty
hard - a good seabreeze day will almost always have lulls below
12 kts. when i sail formula against keelboats, i do fine until
i sail into a lull, and the i get left behind.

It's even more dramatic with a hydrofoiler. But you can see why some of
us are a bit amused by the way some windsurfers (obviously not *all*)
claim a blanket superiority. Must be an ego thing.

Personally, I haven't done any windsurfing for a few years, if the gear
has improved that much maybe I should give it another try.

Fresh Breezes- Doug King