I read this as I was preparing to leave for the NCR and then forgot about it till these new posts.
What every one is using at the nationals and along the regatta circuit is essentially the same; equipment and rigging that works well and is reliable. One cannot compete while dealing with maintenance issues and poorly conditioned batteries. Bearing this in mind, simplicity and longevity in wear under stress scores points at a regatta and has nothing to with speed. Speed is not part of winning or posting a good score. It is preparation and good tactical judgment in the water. Then there is luck. I tend to think we make our own luck from our judgment. I am reminded in my studies of Gettysburg and George Pickett. He was one of the few survivors of his division following the morning charge across the peach orchard on a white horse wearing his famed plumed hat and commanding expressions with a glittering sword. He should have been killed. That is luck through no effort on his part. This is rare in sailing for the shipper plays a part regardless of the blame.
An 11 time national champion once stated that winning is 20% boat and luck and 80% skipper. That said, the boat should be the best it can be but it is not in speed but reliability. Otherwise, the skipper cannot perform.
David Brawner is a two time national champion. His boat is not remarkable; it is the audience behind his eyes.
Bill, if you have a need for specific models in a product, Discussions is the place to ask. You will find it is a narrow band of proven products and the models change often forced more by the manufacturer's in their marketing than that it is better this year than last.
The building site has been neglected but section still present the preference in building that works regardless of the model number changes on the store shelves.
Discussions here are to help with this and the class shares.
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