Tim I sail on the Potomac River from the Washington Sailing Marina, where the cruising boat racing is sponsored by the Daingerfield Island Sailing Club. I inquired about racing with the club last fall, and found that at the time they had a 19' minimum length spec. As a result of my questions, they re-evaluated their rule, and changed from a minimum length limit to a requirement that each boat have a valid PHRF rating, which can easily be obtained for an M-17. I've been racing this season in a weekly evening series, and after starting rather far back, we have worked our way up to around the middle of a fleet of fifteen to twenty 20 - 40 footers. Amazing to see how an M-17 can leave bigger boats behind. You should suggest this to your local fleet and get in on the fun. Rick M-17 #633 Lynne L ************** Psssst...Have you heard the news? There's a new fashion blog, plus the latest fall trends and hair styles at StyleList.com. (http://www.stylelist.com/trends?ncid=aolsty00050000000014)