Dennis,
This seems to be a hot issue with a number of people.
This is not an emotional thing with me, nor am I trying to sell the change of the J-30 ODR to be optimized for PHRF .
The question I am posing has to do with looking at our ODR specs. to see if matches what the owners are doing in their local area or want to do in their local area. Then if it makes sense consider modifying the J-30 specs.
I suspect the folks that race PHRF will optimize their boats for that rating and for those that have enough boats to predominately race one design will stay as they are. Keep in mind if you are racing one design then it doesn't matter what the configuration it as long as it is the same.
Of the hundreds of J-30s, how many travel to the class events? I don't know if changing to the PHRF tailored spec would change that, but if you race PHRF at home then you wouldn't have to buy or borrow sails to compete in a national event. There used to be 4 J-30s in Key West, now I am the only one, so one design racing is not relevant for me. My main racing has been PHRF; keep in mind I have seen the j-30 ODR PHRF in SEF be 129 for a number of years (probably 15-20 years). Over the years the majority of J-30s that traveled to Key West for race week, opted for the 155% due to the rating penalty of the 163%. In the early 80's ZAN had the J length pole and smaller headsail for PHRF racing, she also had one design sails and pole that came with the boat in case they wanted to race one design. It was their choice to spend the extra money. In response to your question, I probably would have traveled to a National event 15 years ago, but not now. I would like to see some J-30s come down to KW race week.
LUMPY
