Our club's non-spin fleet has grown a little and starts are getting a bit crowded. We're considering splitting the fleet, maybe into Non-spin C and D or into PHRF and cruising classes. One suggestion is to split the fleet at 5000 lbs displacement. Off-hand this makes some sense to me. It would put about equal numbers of boats on each side and generally put the more maneuverable little boats (that tend to excel in our low wind area) in a different start than the big barges, so to speak. Are there pitfalls that I'm overlooking?
Other options we're considering are just cutting it at the average PHRF or letting skippers choose. In a survey of members the majority says to cut at average PHRF. The only problem with that is there will be a few boats seemingly misplaced (long but heavy boats would need to compete with the performance hulls, for example). If we let everyone choose we'll probably end up with one fleet starving out eventually. Suggestions welcome.
Disclaimer - I have a dog in the fight. I'd be one of the long heavy cruisers hurting against higher performance hulls when it's blowing 4 kts.
Other options we're considering are just cutting it at the average PHRF or letting skippers choose. In a survey of members the majority says to cut at average PHRF. The only problem with that is there will be a few boats seemingly misplaced (long but heavy boats would need to compete with the performance hulls, for example). If we let everyone choose we'll probably end up with one fleet starving out eventually. Suggestions welcome.
Disclaimer - I have a dog in the fight. I'd be one of the long heavy cruisers hurting against higher performance hulls when it's blowing 4 kts.