It seems to me that much of the growth in the Class currently is from people with a similarish background to me - and this is reflected in the demand for recent ACs. These are the folks that we need to support and encourage to become active. The ACs although make up the largest numbers account for around 4-5% of the Gill turnouts (exception 70th). Although there are special AC prizes maybe wer'e still not hitting the mark with what is needed. The 70th event seems to show people will be willing to travel and as commented before maybe we need an annual N12 'rally' to get folks together. realistically growth is not going to come from yoof sailing - but once the yoofs mature they may want something else. One issue though is how to persuade 'returners' to get a 12 vs say an RS or Topper type 'low maintenance' has 'sporty' extras. We are somewhat of a niche but if all us niches sailed there would be lots of Ns around.
Current conclusion currently seems to be maybe a couple more Gill events - can these be held at 'traditional' locations (such as Trent) so the ACs will feel less handicapped. At the local / Regional level possibly add more events (but each area needs to determine what it can support) - these don't have to be traditional Open type format. If we can get a few more folks hooked on the 12 through the low cost AC route then hopefully they will develop and possibly aspire to the DB (not that there's anything wrong with an AC (except bailing)).
We can keep discussing or get out there find the people / Clubs and start to find out what they actually want out of their Association.
Are we doing enough still to promote the Class - almost weekly now the Fireflys are touting their 100+ at the Nationals - why aren't we?? The Firefly sailor may also be in a similat situation as the 12s - how come they 'seem' to be doing better (all subjective!).
Kean
Current conclusion currently seems to be maybe a couple more Gill events - can these be held at 'traditional' locations (such as Trent) so the ACs will feel less handicapped. At the local / Regional level possibly add more events (but each area needs to determine what it can support) - these don't have to be traditional Open type format. If we can get a few more folks hooked on the 12 through the low cost AC route then hopefully they will develop and possibly aspire to the DB (not that there's anything wrong with an AC (except bailing)).
We can keep discussing or get out there find the people / Clubs and start to find out what they actually want out of their Association.
Are we doing enough still to promote the Class - almost weekly now the Fireflys are touting their 100+ at the Nationals - why aren't we?? The Firefly sailor may also be in a similat situation as the 12s - how come they 'seem' to be doing better (all subjective!).
Kean